Jeff House, head of external affairs at Baxi Heating
Jeff House, head of external affairs at Baxi Heating said: 'This world-first commitment to adopt the emissions cut as advised by the CCC is a monumental pledge. To achieve a 78% reduction in emissions by 2035 compared to 1990 levels will rely on a successful energy transition. To help facilitate this, Baxi Heating has been investing in and developing a broad range of low-carbon solutions, including hydrogen boilers, heat pumps and heat networks components.
'While low-carbon technologies will help in this transition, there are still challenges. One of the biggest barriers to achieving the scale of ambition will be consumer acceptance. Baxi Heating believes that consumer engagement should start now, to help increase understanding of the need for low-carbon technology and the role it will inevitably play in meeting these goals. Change is inevitable, and we have to help people to understand that their heating systems and the way they use them will change – just as they will have to change the kind of car they drive.
'Furthermore, we must prioritise the upskilling of heating engineers to enable them to install new low-carbon heating and hot water solutions.
'The commitment demonstrated by the UK Government to be a world-leader in reducing emissions now needs to be backed up by future policy and investment. Most notably through further investment into hydrogen and other low-carbon heating technologies.
'In the lead up to the 26th UN Climate Change Conference of the Parties (COP26), there are several important publications expected which will further shape how the UK will set out to achieve net-zero carbon emissions. This includes the Department for Business, Energy & Industrial Strategy (BEIS) Heat and Buildings Strategy and a UK Hydrogen Strategy.
'We await these details and are committed to supporting this ambitious transition and the UK’s journey to net-zero. As part of our own sustainability pledge, all products manufactured from 2025 will work with low-carbon energy sources, and by 2030, the business will be net zero across its entire UK operations.