Energy Efficiency - a Big Opportunity for Construction

A NEW REPORT identifying energy efficiency as the next big opportunity for the construction industry and the retrofit skills needed has been published.

The Construction Industry Training Board (CITB) and TrustMark have published the joint report to help the industry prepare for the growing retrofit market.

The UK has legally committed to reach net zero carbon emissions by 2050. By this time, four out of five of the 27 million existing homes will still be in use and need retrofitting to become more energy efficient. This means installing insulation, solar panels, and other measures, presenting the biggest opportunity for construction employers this century.

The report describes how retrofitting will help government to address multiple challenges, including improving poor quality housing and rental properties. It will also stimulate local economies and supply chains, reduce NHS costs caused by cold, damp, poor quality housing. Additionally, it will help households to reduce energy bills and make homes healthier.

Big Opportunity for Construction

Exploring the construction businesses that carry out this retrofitting work and the skills they need, the report details how businesses can prepare for the ‘Retrofit Revolution’.

It highlights the need for training and competence within the construction industry, as businesses will need the right skills to carry out retrofitting work. It also provides conclusions and guidance for construction employers, governments and trade and employer associations.

CITB says it will support industry to develop retrofit skills by investing in net zero solutions through the Industry Impact Fund, establishing clear career pathways and promoting collaboration and knowledge sharing through the CLC’s retrofit hub.

Marcus Bennett, Head of Industry Analysis & Forecasting, CITB said: “Retrofitting the UK’s built environment to be cleaner, greener, warmer in winter, cooler in summer and progressively become more energy efficient and ultimately carbon net zero is the biggest construction opportunity this century. To benefit from this opportunity, the construction industry needs to think differently, and plan and train for a different future.

“This report is just the beginning when it comes highlighting the prospects for the construction industry and showing what’s possible as Britain embarks on its net zero journey.”

Trustmark Registration

For businesses to gain the work upgrading homes which is supported financially by governments, they must be TrustMark registered. TrustMark is the only government-endorsed quality scheme for work carried out in and around the home.

Simon Ayers, Chief Executive at TrustMark, said: “There is a big challenge ahead for the construction industry if we are to make Britain’s homes more energy efficient. The requirement for skilled, trained and competent tradespeople continues to grow across the industry if we are to deliver this work at the scale and pace necessary to achieve the deadline. We also need to build careers into the skills debate if we are to realise long term delivery and create jobs that will support this.

“We hope more businesses consider getting involved as the volume of retrofit work increases, and by working together, we will find the right solutions to those challenges and optimise the opportunity for everyone.”

Read the report Improving the energy efficiency of Britain’s homes: the opportunity from CITB and TrustMark.