SFHA welcomes announcement of review of Energy Efficiency Standard for Social Housing Two

The Scottish Federation of Housing Associations (SFHA) has welcomed the Scottish Government’s announcement that it will review the Energy Efficiency Standard for Social Housing Two (EESSH2). Last year, SFHA released research which found that the energy efficiency standard for social homes, which aims to tackle fuel poverty and was to be met by 2032, would cost housing associations an estimated £2 billion but only reduce the total percentage of households in fuel poverty from 38% to 29%.

The announcement was made today (14 June) as part of the Scottish Government’s response to the report, Achieving Net Zero in Social Housing, by the Zero Emissions Social Housing Taskforce (ZEST). The report made recommendations on what is required of the social housing sector to maximise its contribution to the Scottish Government’s climate change targets while ensuring a just transition for all tenants. One of the report’s calls was for EESSH2 to be reviewed.  

SFHA’s Chief Executive, Sally Thomas, co-chaired ZEST. She said: “SFHA broadly welcomes the Scottish Government’s response to ZEST’s report. We are particularly pleased the government has accepted our call for a review of EESSH2 as we have serious concerns regarding the current target and whether it can have a positive impact. We need a more holistic approach, with adequate funding and supporting policies, to ensure tenants can afford to heat their homes while also working towards Scotland’s net zero objectives. 

“Before we move forward with EESSH2, our members need a clear pathway towards meeting a standard that works for both social landlords and tenants. We’re keen to see the Scottish Government move with urgency on the next steps, and SFHA and our members are ready to support this work and help create a standard that will have a real impact on tackling fuel poverty in Scotland.”