Heat in Buildings Bill

The key points from the consultation response are:

• CAS is committed to action to tackle climate change that makes Scotland a fairer, greener and more equal society. We support a just transition to net zero, which protects individuals most affected by climate change.
• While supportive of the Scottish Government’s proposal to prohibit the use of polluting heating systems after 2045, CAS believes that people living on low income or in vulnerable situations should not experience detriment due to this policy goal.
• We agree with the proposal to introduce a minimum energy efficiency standard to be met by private sector landlords by the end of 2028, even if they are using clean heating already, on the basis that tenants have limited scope to carry out energy efficiency work for themselves.
• CAS supports the proposal to introduce a minimum energy efficiency standard for owner-occupied homes by the end of 2033. We believe that the provision of high-quality advice and a focus on tackling fuel poverty must be central aspects of this policy.
• There must be rigorous consumer protections for people who are obliged to join heat networks, with access to advice and guidance on for heat network users.