New research from the Building Services Research and Information Association (BRSIA) found that there is a low sector-wide understanding of retrofit technologies and approaches – stalling the UK’s plans to decarbonise. For context,  4 out of 10 professionals stated that the level of retrofit training available was insufficient, coupled with a serious lack of industry knowledge and understanding in retrofit techniques.

Jake Dowling, Head of Decarbonisation at Seddon Property Services responds to these findings and outlines the urgent need for industry-wide reform:

“Addressing the retrofit skills gap is essential in achieving our ambitious net zero goals, but current training frameworks are outdated and unfit for purpose. With 350,000 new construction workers needed by 2028 if the government is to fulfil its Net Zero Strategy – the cost of doing nothing is just too high.

Effective retrofitting demands collaboration amongst training providers, government bodies, manufacturers, and contractors. Each stakeholder plays a pivotal role in equipping the workforce with the skills needed to meet sustainability targets.

The BSRIA survey found that 62% believe that retrofit projects provide greater benefits for achieving net zero than new-build homes, but without proper data collection and analysis, the effectiveness of these projects is severely undermined.

The journey to Net Zero demands a workforce equipped with future-ready skills and policies need to shift from guidance to regulation. Current training programs, which are rooted in legacy systems, must evolve to include emerging technologies such as heat pumps, smart energy solutions, and digital twin modelling. Standardised education initiatives focused on sustainability and energy efficiency will not only bridge the skills gap but also deliver long-term community benefits through aligned social value programs.”