The Low Carbon Homes forums brought together hundreds of architects, engineers, landlords, housing consultants and local authority attendees, to discuss the priority issues and showcase a range of carbon reduction and energy efficiency solutions which could be deployed across the sector.
As one of a number of specialists speaking at the events, OFTEC’s Head of Communications, Malcolm Farrow, emphasised the need for all sectors of the heating industry – including the existing fossil fuel sector - to play their part in reducing emissions. Far from being the enemy, Malcolm argued that harnessing the expertise and capability of the oil and gas sector was critical in taking decisive action quickly - and that this was a challenge they were only-too-ready to accept.
In a talk that focussed particularly on the difficulties and opportunities presented by oil-heated homes, Malcolm highlighted the vital need to consider the capacity and willingness of consumers to take action. He pointed out that, as most future gains in energy efficiency and carbon reduction will require people to make changes to their homes, consumer buy-in would be paramount and low-cost options were essential.
This suggests that biofuels could make a significant contribution towards progress in the difficult to treat rural heating sector.
Malcolm Farrow continues: “For any solution to succeed, it’s important to understand and account for the particular challenges the off-grid sector present, such as the high proportion of older, poorly insulated homes which inevitably ‘leak’ heat. We must also consider the needs of consumers and limit adverse impacts such as high cost and significant upheaval. This has been an essential missing ingredient in heat decarbonisation strategies to date.
“The research confirms OFTEC’s long held view that transitioning rural properties to a low carbon liquid fuel offers the most cost effective, practical and futureproof solution going forward. The next step is to continue our conversations and work with industry and government to ensure this compelling solution is brought to market.”
The Low Carbon Homes forums were organised by Cogent Events and held in Brighton, Ipswich and Wimborne Minster, Dorset, with a final event taking place in Manchester in the autumn.