Net zero homes promote energy patriotism

According to a recent study conducted by the Energy and Climate Intelligence Unit (ECIU), the use of electric heat pumps, insulation, and electric vehicles (EVs) in homes can significantly reduce imported energy consumption compared to households reliant on fossil fuels.

The analysis revealed that a typical household utilising a gas boiler and petrol car relies on imports for almost 70% of its energy, amounting to around 17 megawatt hours (MWh) per year.

In contrast, a home retrofitted to EPC C standards, equipped with a heat pump and electric car, consumes less than half (45%) of the energy imports compared to a household with a gas boiler and petrol car, using approximately 7.5MWh annually.

Furthermore, if a residence incorporates a heat pump, electric car, and solar panels, the imported energy consumption drops even further to just 6MWh per year, accounting for around one-third (36%) of the fuel imports of a standard home.

By 2030, industry projections indicate a decline in North Sea oil production, regardless of the issuance of new oil and gas licences. Data suggests that approximately 60% of the gas used in the UK is imported, with only 8-10% of the petrol refined domestically using locally sourced oil.

Energy Analyst at the ECIU, Jess Ralston, commented on the findings, stating, “Those interested in supporting ‘energy patriotism’ by opting for British-made energy should transition from gas boilers and petrol cars to electric heat pumps and EVs, which are increasingly powered by British wind and solar energy.”

Ralston added, “As the output of North Sea oil and gas continues to dwindle, households relying on gas boilers and internal combustion cars will face a growing dependence on foreign imports. Despite the Government’s recent boost in grants for heat pumps, the reduction in other supportive policies, influenced by lobbying from gas boiler manufacturers, may result in fewer heat pump installations, amplifying the nation’s reliance on imported gas.”