Nesta Scotland has responded to the Ministerial Statement by the Scottish Government’s acting climate action minister on the Heat in Buildings Bill, announcing its intention to bring forward a revised Bill for consideration by the Scottish Parliament later in 2025.

Robin Parker, sustainable future mission manager at Nesta Scotland, said: “The Heat in Buildings Bill as set out by the Minister today looks to be a big missed opportunity to improve Scotland’s energy security.

“Scotland has abundant clean renewable electricity that should be put to use heating our homes through modern electric heating systems, such as heat pumps. But in the form outlined today, there is a clear risk that the Bill will do little to increase uptake of clean heating in Scotland.

“For many homes in Scotland, choosing a heat pump is already a sensible choice on cost, with up to £9,000 in grant funding, as well as targeted full-funding for fuel-poor homes. A strong Heat in Buildings Bill would give confidence and direction to the heat pump installation industry, bringing clean heating costs down over time. To help achieve this, politicians in Scotland should look again at the idea of using this Bill to link switching to clean heating with house sales, which could mobilise affordable mortgage finance to support people to future-proof their homes.

“If the UK Government also takes actions to cut electricity costs, that would make the financial proposition for getting a heat pump even stronger.”

Nesta Scotland responded to the Scottish Government Consultation on proposals for the Heat in Buildings Bill in April last year.

1. For more information or to speak to one of the experts involved, please contact Kieran Lowe, Media Manager, on 020 7438 2576 or [email protected]. Spokespeople are available for broadcast interviews.