Amid doctor and consultant strikes, the Conservative Party’s Annual Conference in Manchester missed an opportunity to meet home energy efficiency targets, which could have alleviated the strain on the NHS. A study by Sheffield Hallam University researchers last winter demonstrated that providing warmer homes “on prescription” had the potential to prevent excess winter deaths and reduce the healthcare burden caused by cold homes and long-term health conditions.
A report published in July by the Health Foundation highlighted that 9.1 million people will be living with major illnesses by 2040, which is 2.5 million more than in 2019. Addressing this challenge requires long-term decisions that prioritise a brighter future.
However, the government and media predominantly focus on the energy efficiency retrofit’s benefits for reducing energy bills, overlooking the importance of warmer homes and improved air quality for enhancing the health of people of all ages, not just those with long-term illnesses or the elderly.
Public Health England’s guidance to public health teams and housing professionals notes that “excess winter deaths in the coldest quarter of housing are almost 3 times as high as in the warmest quarter” with 21.5% of all excess winter deaths attributable to the coldest quarter of housing,”
While addressing energy use reduction in homes, improving indoor air quality and comfort, and reducing NHS demands align, Prime Minister Rishi Sunak’s announcement of delaying the phase-out of fossil fuel heating and transport raises concerns about the government’s stance on home upgrades.
Greater Manchester Combined Authority prioritises energy-efficient homes to enhance health and economic well-being, supporting homeowners in upgrading their homes for improved warmth and health as more people live with underlying health conditions in old age.
Mayor of Greater Manchester Andy Burnham affirmed the commitment to energy-efficient, healthier homes during the Greater Manchester Green Summit, emphasising the readiness to accelerate Net Zero goals if the government seeks to quicken the pace.
The industry also rises to the challenge, offering local communities decarbonisation solutions and supporting local actions. The British Gas sponsored Home Upgrade Show in Manchester gathers over 50 exhibitors and experts to provide residents with information and guidance on energy efficiency matters. The event is part of the Retrofit Action Week campaign, promoting housing decarbonisation across Greater Manchester.
Event organiser and founder of Low Carbon Homes, Graham Lock, underscores the importance of home retrofit, considering the need to reduce energy use, address the cost of living crisis, support the NHS, and ensure taxpayers’ funds benefit more people.
