MACC evaluates which energy-saving measures provide the highest carbon reduction at the lowest setup cost. The updated review compares heating controls such as auto-balancing TRVs, and programmable thermostats against other methods, such as loft and wall insulation.

Across the board, heating controls provide significant carbon reductions, with TRVs having been shown to be one of the most cost-effective ways for UK households to cut carbon emissions and minimise energy bills.

• Standard TRVs marginal abatement cost: –£295 per tonne CO2e

• Digistat Programmable Thermostat marginal abatement cost: –£275 per tonne CO2e

• Auto-Balancing TRVs marginal abatement cost: –£272 per tonne CO2e

• Solid Wall Insulation marginal abatement cost: –£46 per tonne CO2e

• Loft Insulation marginal abatement cost: –£81 per tonne CO2e

Having a negative MACC value indicates that the measure saves more money over its lifetime than it costs to install, therefore making it a beneficial investment from day one.

It is argued that these results demonstrate that traditional heating controls offer a lower-cost, easily-attainable solution for homeowners who are looking to make energy savings and carbon reductions.

Nick Hunt, UK sales and marketing director at Drayton, commented: “With the pressures of the cost-of-living crisis, combined with the demand for low-carbon solutions, the MACC findings demonstrate clear advantages for installers and homeowners.

“In comparison to insulation, upgrading heating controls offers a quick, low-disruption solution. They deliver immediate benefits through reduced energy bills and improved heating comfort, with high upsell potential, particularly with auto-balancing TRVs. As more and more customers are looking for ways they can reduce their carbon footprint, implementing these heating solutions can also contribute to achieving Net Zero goals.”