Second Big Retrofit Challenge Launched to Drive Net Zero in Built Environment

Welcome to Net Zero News, your daily briefing on the UK’s transition to a low-carbon future.

Futurebuild, in partnership with the National Home Decarbonisation Group (NHDG) and Innovate UK, has unveiled the second Big Retrofit Challenge. This initiative, first launched in 2025, returns in 2026 with the aim of identifying pioneering products, services and solutions to support decarbonisation of homes and non-residential buildings. It also seeks to enhance occupant health and accelerate progress toward truly net zero-carbon properties. Up to six organisations will be shortlisted to present their innovations live at the National Retrofit Conference part of Futurebuild 2026 — taking place at ExCeL London from 3 to 5 March 2026. Finalists will receive opportunities to exhibit in the NHDG Pavilion, connect with NHDG members, and potentially have their innovations piloted in real-world retrofit schemes. Furthermore, they’ll gain post-event visibility through video interviews, media coverage and thought‑leadership articles. Such exposure builds on the achievements of 2025’s finalists, such as Indie Nature and Eyesea Green, which went on to collaborate with industry partners. This year’s competition adds a new category for digital and AI solutions, reflecting the growing role of advanced technologies in retrofit strategies. Eligible applicants must be UK-registered organisations with up to £15 million turnover; priority is given to emerging innovators. While alignment with standards like PAS 2035 or MCS is encouraged, such accreditation is not required for shortlisting. Notably, consideration of resident engagement forms part of the evaluation process, underscoring the importance of user-centred approaches in retrofit delivery. Martin Hurn, Event Director of Futurebuild, emphasised that the Big Retrofit Challenge serves as a national stage to test ideas, forge partnerships, and move concepts toward implementation. Laura Marks, Head of the NHDG Innovation Working Group, added that last year’s challenge demonstrated Futurebuild’s capacity to drive collaboration and  that the inclusion of digital and AI innovations this year promises broader creative input to meet the UK’s retrofit ambitions.

What this means:
This refreshed Big Retrofit Challenge underscores a strategic shift in retrofit innovation. By extending beyond technical solutions to encompass digital and AI approaches, the initiative aligns with the evolving needs of a sector seeking scalable, efficient and user-responsive retrofit solutions. The emphasis on UK SMEs, resident involvement and real-world piloting speaks to a holistic model of innovation that balances performance, practicality and engagement essential ingredients for broad-based delivery of net zero retrofit.

Upcoming Events:
Net Zero Scotland Projects Conference -16 June 2026, Edinburgh

Net Zero Nations Projects Conference – 6 October 2026, Westminster

Do you have technologies, innovations or solutions that can help public-sector net‑zero projects?
Email: lee@net-zero.scot