The Committee on Climate Change generated a report in 2019 which assessed UK homes effectiveness in dealing with climate change. The report established how many home are using renewable energy sources and how many of them will be left at risk should traditional gas boilers be phased out.
There is currently no plan for gas boilers to be stopped.
That being said, there has been a conscious move by governments and building contractors who have started using more low-carbon and renewable energy systems in new homes. So is this a sign of things to come?
Gas boilers have been around since the 1960's with very little change. Most technologies of the 1960's; record players, and the original electric vacuum cleaner, are still around today, but barely recognisable compared to their 1960's debates. This is not the same for gas boilers.
It does not take a genius to realise the changing tides and an increasing pressure from governments and authorities regarding protecting our planet, must be tackled from all angles and gas heating, is not the 'green' and 'clean' energy source of this century.
The report confirmed that "UK homes are largely unprepared for climate change", they are not using:
1. Low-carbon heating
2. Water management and cooling
3. Up to date renewable technologies
4. Triple glazing
5. High levels of air-tightness in roofing
The report also suggested that the UK will not be able to meet the legally-binding climate change targets based on the current performance and energy usage. Which does make us think... what will be forced upon us to help reach these targets?
Our recommendation is to replace your old gas boiler with air source heat pumps, but only when you need to. Owners of old or faulty boilers which are due a new installation should consider this more renewable option. Those with boilers fitted in the last 8 years who are experiencing no issues, probably don't need to act now. But certainly need to be conscious of the changing times!
