Low-Carbon Construction and Retrofit

Construction is a vital sector in our region, creating jobs and shaping our built environment all around us. 

We also know that reducing carbon emissions from existing buildings represents one of the biggest challenges facing the UK in our transition to net zero carbon by 2050. 

If we want to make our region greener and more socially just, we need to retrofit our existing buildings to help decarbonise and deliver a net zero carbon future.

What is retrofit in construction?

Retrofitting is the process of fitting new systems designed for high energy efficiency and low energy consumption of buildings previously built without them. 

Retrofitting can range from small-scale activities (such as fitting energy-efficient light bulbs) to improving levels of insulation and installing solar panels, smart meters and sustainable water and heating systems to make properties more energy efficient. 

The opportunities of retrofit

We know from our Just Transition stakeholder interviews that retrofit has the potential to create new local jobs across our region – but we need to ensure that our workforce has the relevant skills to deliver housing decarbonisation. At the moment, there is a shortage of retrofitters, in both professional and trade roles.   

Retrofitting homes has the potential to create multiple benefits - linking action on climate change with improving current homes and addressing health inequalities as well as creating jobs and supporting local economic regeneration. 

We would like to hear your views about the future of construction in our region and the opportunities related to retrofit.

Thank you for your help, it is really appreciated.