Heat is on: Tackling the biggest challenge to decarbonisation

Heat effectively poses the biggest problem at present for the decarbonisation of the UK, as it gears up to cut greenhouse gas emissions 68% by 2030, compared to 1990 levels, plus pursues a pathway towards net zero by 2050.

Including industrial processes, heating currently accounts for about 37% of total UK carbon emissions. Whilst acknowledging that efficiency measures, such as insulation and double-glazing, have an important role to play in reducing total heat loss and energy consumption, the focus of the webinar will be on the range of heating systems, technologies and products on offer, both now and in the future, to help address this critical challenge.

The debate will discuss and review the relative merits of a menu of options including: electrification; heat pumps; hybrid systems; fuel cells; micro-CHP; green gas — hydrogen and biomethane; plus district and communal heating networks.

As well as highlighting innovation, the panel will consider positive and negative factors impacting roll-out of low- to zero-carbon solutions — from grid infrastructure, product and safety standards, to affordability and grant funding, installer skills and training.

Speakers: Rebecca Dibb-Simkin – Global Director of Product & Marketing – Octopus Energy

Duncan Price – Partner, Sustainability & Climate change – Buro Happold

Richard Halsey – Director -Energy Systems Catapult