New rules for all new buildings to have zero direct emissions heating systems

Patrick Harvie

Scotland’s Heat in Buildings Strategy sets out the Scottish government’s intention to develop regulations to ensure that new buildings, applying for a building warrant from 2024 onwards, use zero direct emissions heating (ZDEH) systems.

A “direct emission heating system” means a system (other than a heat network) by which the building is heated or is cooled, or by which hot water is made available in the building, which uses thermal energy produced by a source of production which during normal operation produces more than a negligible amount of direct greenhouse gas emissions at the point of use.

The government consulted on these proposals in 2021 and again in 2022. If passed, the new regulations before Parliament will go live in April 2024.

Minister for zero carbon buildings Patrick Harvie said: “Along with transport, heating Scotland’s homes and buildings is one of the biggest contributors to our carbon emissions and we know we have to take bold action to meet our climate obligations.

“These regulations will mean that direct emissions heating systems – like gas boilers – will no longer be installed in new homes and non-domestic buildings. Instead, they will be replaced by climate-friendly alternatives like heat pumps and heat networks.

“This change is essential to deliver our commitment to make buildings zero carbon by 2045. It will also mean that people who buy new homes will know that their home is future-proofed against the need to have to switch heating systems in the future.

“It is another example of Scotland leading the way in addressing the big challenges that we need to solve to meet our net zero targets and making sure we have buildings that meet the needs of the 21st century.”