Net carbon zero by 2050

Here’s how the government has pledged to reduce carbon emissions and fight climate change.

 

The government has made a pledge to be net carbon zero by 2050. Net carbon zero means that for all Carbon Dioxide produced, we will be offsetting the same amount.

Offsetting Carbon Dioxide in your home

We can all help to offset Carbon Dioxide (CO2). In fact, UK homes are responsible for 15% of the country’s carbon emissions. This figure rises to 22% when you include our electricity usage.

The main cause is poor energy efficiency in our properties. So, the government has introduced targets and goals for all UK goals. These can be found in your EPC certificate. Every certificate includes the potential energy savings you could make and suggestions for energy-saving home improvements.

What you can do about it

Firstly, check your EPC certificate. Your EPC rating shows you clearly how energy efficient your home is and rates it on a scale from A-G (A is the most efficient and G the worst). The closer you are to an A the more energy and the more cost-effective your home will be.

Targets for UK homes:

1. The government issued a new minimum EPC rating for rented properties:

England

  • By 2020 rented homes must have an EPC rating of E or better.

Scotland

  • By 2022 homes must have an EPC rating of E or better.
  • By 2025 homes must have an EPC rating of D or better.

2. The government’s target is to have as many owner-occupied homes rated at an EPC band C or above by 2035. For fuel-poor homes the target is to reach a grade C by 2030.

What is a fuel-poor home?

A fuel-poor home is determined by three elements: income, energy requirement and fuel prices. It is considered fuel poor if:

  • If your fuel costs are above the national (median) average.
  • If, after you’ve paid your energy bills, you have an income below the official poverty line.

Find out how you can improve your EPC rating.

You may also like

What you need to know about climate change

How to get help with energy-saving home improvements

More Eco Hub articles

Homeowner inspiration

Inspirational ideas for big or small changes for your home.

Homeowner inspiration articles