The government’s decision to scrap the 2035 gas boiler ban has sparked a mixed reaction within the industry. While some welcomed the recognition of the challenges involved in decarbonising the existing housing stock, concerns were raised about the potential impact on the UK’s net-zero targets.
Following the news of the plans to scrap the ban on gas boiler sales by 2035 as part of the incoming 2025 Future Homes Standard, Chris Smith, Head of New Build at Polypipe Building Products, said:
“The government’s decision to scrap the planned 2035 ban on gas boilers may appear to slow its decarbonisation drive, however it is recognition that the road to low carbon systems is a long one.
“While new homes can be built to accommodate technologies such as heat pumps, a more considered approach is needed to upgrade the country’s existing housing stock.
“Retrofitting existing homes to accommodate low-carbon heating solutions is a far more complex task than simply swapping out a gas boiler. The majority of homes in the UK were not designed with the infrastructure required for heat pumps. The average home needs upgraded insulation, larger radiators, and underfloor heating systems to operate efficiently. These modifications are not only costly but also disruptive for homeowners, which highlights the importance of a phased approach to transitioning away from gas boilers.
“It is encouraging to see that the government remains committed to subsidising heat pumps, as financial support is vital to make these technologies accessible to more households. We believe further incentives and funding will be necessary to address the challenges of retrofitting older homes and to ensure that no one is left behind in the shift to low-carbon heating.
“In the short term, we must continue to focus on solutions that balance environmental progress with practicality. For new build developments, designing homes with low-carbon heating systems from the outset is entirely achievable and should remain a priority. For retrofits, a tailored approach that considers the specific needs of each property and its occupants will be key to meeting targets.
“Collaboration between manufacturers, policymakers, and the wider construction industry is essential to achieving decarbonisation goals in good time.”
Polypipe Building Products develops innovative plumbing and heating solutions to enable the transition towards low carbon heating and hot water systems.