• Draft Heat in Buildings Bill shows that changing how we heat our homes will be an important topic for Scotland’s next parliament to address
• Draft Bill lays groundwork for unlocking clean heat in Scotland but next government in Scotland will need to strengthen it around heat pump rollout

Nesta Scotland has responded to the publication of the draft Heat in Buildings Bill by the Scottish Government today and confirmation that it will not be introduced in the current session of the Scottish Parliament.

Robin Parker, sustainable future mission manager at Nesta Scotland said: “Scotland produces more electricity than it uses, with over a third of the electricity generated in 2023 exported. Decarbonising home heating in Scotland is a live challenge that the next Scottish Government will need to legislate for, sooner rather than later. Making progress on this will require the next government to outline a plan that uses Scotland’s abundant renewable energy to change how we heat our homes. The draft Bill’s proposals for boosting heat networks will help some homes switch to low-carbon heating, particularly new build homes, flats and tenements. However, as it stands, this draft Bill will need to be enhanced if it is to accelerate the installation of heat pumps - the most important technology for reducing home carbon emissions.

“Political parties should address in their manifestos how they see that they can go beyond this draft Bill, to accelerate the rollout of heat pump installations that harness Scotland's renewable electricity to efficiently heat our properties.”

Ends

Notes to editors

1. For more information on the analysis 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.

About Nesta

Nesta is an independent think tank focused on solving society’s biggest challenges.

Nesta conducts experiments with public and private organisations, builds and invests in early-stage ventures, and shapes policy.

Our three missions are to give every child a fair start, help people live healthy lives, and create a sustainable future where the economy works for both people and the planet.

For over 20 years, Nesta has worked to support, encourage and inspire innovation. Harnessing the rigour of science and the creativity of design, we design, test and scale solutions to change millions of lives for the better. Find out more at nesta.org.uk