Data-driven retrofitting is the only way to achieve net zero, expert claims

Anthony Baker, Founder and CEO of Satellite Vu, stated that: “Retrofitting and upgrading existing buildings should be at the centre of net zero efforts as it's a sure-fire cost-effective measure to reduce carbon emissions, reduce energy bills, as well as improving efficiency.” 
 
The United Nations Environment Programme previously revealed that buildings account for almost 40 percent of energy-related carbon emissions, a figure which reached an all-time high in 2019. 
 
Carbon emissions directly from buildings need to be halved by 2030 in order to be on track for net zero carbon building stock by 2050. 
 
To tackle the issue, The Guardian recently suggested prime minister candidates Liz Truss and Rishi Sunak should put a halt to the demolition of existing buildings as part of an effort to elevate the UK as a leader in retrofitting within the global construction industry. 
 
“Equipping governments and businesses with high-resolution thermal data, through satellite technology, will help target the deployment of funds towards the largest offending buildings, enabling retrofitting to have a greater immediate impact. 
 
“Further, by providing measurable data-driven insights into the performance and pattern of life of buildings, both day and night, we can ensure that buildings operate in accordance with their Energy Performance Certificates (EPCs). 
 
“Whether it’s upgrading windows or improving insulation, immediate retrofitting action is the only way forward if the UK is to get on track to meet its obligations under COP26,” Baker added. 
 
“This data can also ensure organisations are held accountable to their Environmental, Societal and Governance (ESG) credentials as well as promoting accurate data to combat greenwashing claims” he continued. 
 
This comes following the government announcement of a £635 million injection into the Public Sector Decarbonisation Scheme earlier this month, which provides grants for public sector bodies to fund heat decarbonisation and energy efficiency measures.