Did you know that UK homes account for around 20% of the country’s total greenhouse gas emissions? That’s nearly a quarter of the problem and a major focus in the government’s plan to reach net zero emissions by 2050.
From phasing out gas boilers to funding renewable heating systems, the government is taking serious steps to decarbonise homes. The UK home decarbonisation plan includes grants, tougher energy efficiency regulations, and support for technologies like air source heat pumps.
But what does this mean for you as a homeowner? And how can you benefit from it? In this guide, we break down the government’s decarbonisation strategy and explain how Surrey homeowners can use it to future-proof their homes, reduce energy bills, and lower carbon emissions.
Why the UK Is Decarbonising Homes
With almost 29 million homes across the UK, housing plays a major role in the country’s carbon footprint. Most of these homes still rely on gas boilers for heating, and as a result, research estimates that UK housing stock emits 62 million tonnes of CO₂ each year.
To meet climate targets, improve energy security, and reduce energy costs for households, the government is making housing decarbonisation a central pillar of its Net Zero Strategy.
Government Net Zero Targets and the Role of Housing
- Achieve net zero emissions by 2050
- Cut emissions from buildings by 68% by 2035
- Ensure new homes are built to low-carbon standards from 2025
- Support homeowners in upgrading existing housing stock — which is often the least efficient
Heating is a top priority. That’s where the biggest savings — both financial and environmental — can be made.
Key Parts of the Government’s Decarbonisation Strategy for Homes
The UK government has rolled out a combination of funding, regulations, and public targets to drive change across all types of housing.
Phasing Out Gas Boilers and Promoting Low-Carbon Heating
Starting in 2025, gas boilers will no longer be allowed in new-build homes. This is part of the Future Homes Standard, which requires new properties to produce 75–80% fewer emissions than current building regulations allow.
The long-term goal is to replace fossil fuel-based systems with:
- Air source heat pumps
- Ground source heat pumps
- Heat networks and district heating
- Infrared and smart electric heating
The government wants to see 600,000 heat pump installations per year by 2028.
At Adlår, we offer an advanced dual heat pump system, designed for maximum efficiency and minimal disruption, which is ideal for both urban and rural homes.
Expanding the Boiler Upgrade Scheme (BUS)
To help with the upfront cost of heat pumps, the government runs the Boiler Upgrade Scheme, which is set to run until the end of 2027.
Key facts:
- £7,500 grant for air source or ground source heat pumps
- Available to homeowners in England and Wales
- Open to owner-occupiers, landlords, and private home builders
- Claim handled directly by your certified installer
Adlår is proud to be a qualified installer under the scheme. We handle the entire application process on your behalf — no paperwork, no stress.
Tightening Energy Efficiency Standards
As part of the wider decarbonisation plan, the government is also tightening the rules on home energy performance.
New Build Homes: Future Homes Standard (2025)
- Requires new homes to use low-carbon heating
- Improved insulation, solar compatibility, smart controls
- No more gas boilers in new builds
Existing Homes: EPC Pressure Increasing
- Rental properties must achieve EPC rating C by 2028
- Homes with low EPCs could face penalties, lower resale value, or mortgage restrictions
These changes are already shaping the housing market — acting early protects your investment.
Retrofit Support: Local Grants and Green Finance
Not every homeowner qualifies for national grants. That’s why the government is funding local retrofit schemes too.
Home Upgrade Grant (HUG)
- For off-gas-grid homes with low incomes
- Includes funding for insulation, heat pumps, and smart heating controls
Local Authority Delivery (LAD) Schemes
- Run through local councils
- Focused on fuel-poor or hard-to-heat homes
Green Mortgages and Loans
- Offered by lenders to support eco-renovations
- Lower interest rates for energy-efficient upgrades
In regions like Surrey, where many homes were built before 1990, these schemes can make a real difference.
How These Plans Affect You as a Homeowner
If you’re a homeowner, this plan has real implications for your home’s future.
Why It Matters
- Homes with inefficient heating or low EPC ratings may struggle to sell or remortgage
- Energy bills remain high — making efficiency upgrades more financially attractive
- Grant funding is generous now — but could tighten as targets grow closer
- You may soon be required to upgrade as regulations evolve
Why Now Is the Best Time to Act
- £7,500 grant towards a heat pump = huge cost offset
- Future-proof your property before regulations become mandatory
- Increase your home’s value and buyer appeal
- Reduce carbon emissions and lower heating costs for good
How Adlår Supports Homeowners in Going Low-Carbon
Adlår Castra UK is a Surrey-based renewable heating company, trusted by homeowners across the nation for our expert, in-house installation of high-performance air source heat pumps.
We offer:
- Free consultations to explore your best options
- Site surveys with full heat loss calculations
- Full support in claiming the £7,500 Boiler Upgrade Scheme grant
- 1–2 day installations using our own specialist engineers
- Our exclusive Comfort Guarantee, ensuring efficiency and year-round performance
We don’t just sell and install market-leading heat pumps; we help you take real steps toward a low-carbon, cost-efficient home.
FAQs About the UK’s Plan to Decarbonise Homes
Q: What’s the average carbon footprint of a UK home?
A: UK homes emit about 65 million tonnes of CO₂ annually, with heating as the top contributor.
Q: Will I be forced to replace my gas boiler?
A: Not yet. But from 2025, new homes cannot install gas boilers, and future regulations may limit replacements in older homes.
Q: How much is the heat pump grant?
A: You can get £7,500 through the Boiler Upgrade Scheme if you use a certified installer like Adlår.
Q: What is the Future Homes Standard?
A: It’s a regulation for all new homes built from 2025 onwards, requiring low-carbon heating and high energy efficiency.
Q: Can I get help with insulation too?
A: Yes, if you qualify for schemes like HUG or LAD, you could get support for insulation and heating upgrades together.
A Smarter, Greener Future Starts at Home
The UK government is committed to decarbonising homes, with plans already underway. With new regulations, major grants, and heating upgrades leading the charge, now is the time to act.
By upgrading your heating system and improving energy efficiency, you’re not just cutting carbon emissions; you’re saving money, boosting comfort, and protecting your home’s long-term value.
When you have the right support, it’s easier than you think. Adlår Castra UK is here to help. Let’s make your home part of the UK’s sustainable future, one upgrade at a time.
Ready to make your home part of the UK’s low-carbon future?
Book your free consultation with us today and take the first step toward a warmer, greener, more efficient home.
