"It will be impossible to achieve net zero without significant improvements to the energy efficiency of the UK’s 30 million buildings, which are responsible for 21% of the nation’s emissions.
These improvements will require enormous levels of public and private investment. A new study by the Savills and the National Housing Federation estimates that achieving net zero in housing managed by English housing associations could cost at least £36bn – and this is just social housing.
We are therefore pleased to see the government’s Net Zero Strategy driving the decarbonisation of UK housing through a raft of measures including an additional £800m of funding over the next four years for the £3.8bn Social Housing Decarbonisation Fund.
Last month, Triple Point Social Housing REIT plc launched a sector-first initiative to fund the retrofit of all properties within its portfolio to maximise their environmental efficiency. Triple Point will bring all properties to their maximum efficiency, and at least an Energy Performance Certificate (‘EPC’) rating of ‘C’. In doing this, the retrofit will reduce carbon emissions, improve living comfort, alleviate fuel poverty, and ensure compliance with future government regulations."
Freddie Cowper-Coles is Investment Director for Triple Point Social Housing REIT plc (SOHO).