Retrofitting homes is not just about meeting net zero targets. It’s about improving lives and unlocking green economic growth. Home energy use accounts for 13% of Scotland’s carbon emissions, yet around half of all homes still fall short of basic energy efficiency standards.

With the accelerating climate emergency and ongoing energy crisis, the need to decarbonise Scotland’s homes has never been more pressing. Energy inefficient homes and reliance on volatile fossil fuel markets for heating also exacerbate fuel poverty. That’s why we’re calling for bold, cross-sector action – we don’t have time to waste.

While we await the long-anticipated Heat in Buildings Bill, collaboration across public and private sectors – including the built environment, technology, policy, and supply chains – is essential. The Bill will be critical in setting timelines for minimum energy efficiency standards and phasing out polluting heating systems by 2045. But to get meet net zero, we must act now – equipping supply chains with the skills, clarity and capacity they need to deliver at scale.

Polling commissioned by Changeworks shows a strong public mandate for sustainable change: 71% of people in Scotland support renewable energy in the home, and half believe the transition to net zero will positively impact the economy in the medium to long term. However, 65% are concerned that the UK is not investing quickly enough in alternative, more sustainable energy, and 83% are very concerned about continued steep rises in energy prices.

To keep Scotland on track to net zero, there is a need for sustained collaboration and innovation. Changeworks’ strategic plan for 2025-2030 outlines an ambitious goal: to support 180,000 households with energy efficiency and low-carbon heating measures by 2030. This could save 3 tonnes of CO2 per home each year, making a significant contribution to Scotland’s emissions reduction targets.

Decarbonisation as a driver of growth

The challenge is clear. Climate change is the most significant threat to our environment, and decarbonising homes is central to tackling it. Beyond the environmental imperative, there are significant opportunities for businesses to play a key role in the transition to drive the economic benefits of the transition.

According to our polling, 72% of the Scottish population support legislation that invests in the green sector to generate more job opportunities. However, 61% are concerned that the UK is not investing in the economy enough to ensure a smooth transition to net zero and 59% worry the supply chain isn’t being adequately upskilled in sustainable technologies.

In 2023, we launched EcoCosi, Scotland’s first end-to-end home retrofit service for the self-funded owner occupier market. As part of this, we’re actively developing the Scottish supply chain, building a network of trusted contractors and installers. It’s this kind of commitment the UK needs to meet net zero.

EcoCosi enables homeowners to reduce energy bills and carbon footprints through comprehensive energy-efficient retrofits. Alongside supporting householders, it also opens up a growing market for businesses with the expertise and technology to deliver these solutions.

Collaborating for a just transition  

While enabling the self-funded market to decarbonise is a key driver to support economic growth and upskilling the supply chain, supporting vulnerable householders and communities is key to ensure a just transition to net zero.

In partnership with the Scottish Federation of Housing Associations, Changeworks launched the Tenant Energy Support service, offering expert advice to social housing tenants. Another initiative, the Warm Home Prescription project with Energy Systems Catapult, supported vulnerable individuals in Aberdeen City and Aberdeenshire. By “prescribing” warmth—through installing energy efficiency measures and offering tailored advice—the project helped people with health conditions worsened by the cold to stay well at home and out of hospital.

Work with Changeworks

These initiatives are just the beginning. Changeworks is actively seeking partners to help scale our impact. Collaboration and innovation across public and private sectors to deliver meaningful outcomes will be essential. By working together and sharing expertise, we can tackle fuel poverty, create green jobs, and accelerate the UK’s decarbonisation.

Let’s get to work.

Contact workwithus@changeworks.org.uk to discuss collaboration opportunities.