For homeowners and landlords to make the right choices when replacing their heating systems, they need to know what their options are. Information about heating options is unnecessarily confusing and the lack of clarity around the role of hydrogen in heating as adding to this.
For the majority of Scotland’s homes, the focus should always be fabric first, with heat provided via heat pumps or heat networks. In some cases, where these are not viable, electric heating or biomass are options.
The evidence is clear that hydrogen is not a viable option and will only play a minimal role in heating our homes. It is inefficient and expensive – powering a boiler with green hydrogen uses about six times more renewable energy than is needed to run a heat pump.
This policy briefing sets out the most likely and desirable heating destinations for the majority of Scotland’s homes and is intended to shape the development of the Scottish Government’s Energy Strategy and inform discussions amongst stakeholders.
Heating our Homes – Knowing the Destination
