In a significant recent announcement, the government has unveiled its decision to extend the ban on home heating oil boilers until 2035, marking a major shift in the timeline for phasing out fossil fuel heating systems. This news impacts homeowners, the environment, and the heating industry as a whole. In this blog post, we’ll delve into the details of this decision and what it means for you.
Understanding the Extension to the boiler ban
The extension of the ban on home heating oil boilers until 2035 signifies a substantial adjustment to the original plan. Under the new policy, households will not be required to transition to alternative heating systems until they replace their boilers after the year 2035. This offers a welcome reprieve for those who rely on home heating oil systems, allowing them more time to prepare for the switch.
Crucially, the government has amended the target to an 80% phase-out rate by 2035. This means that by that year, that only 80% of homes will need to have transitioned away from oil boilers to more sustainable heating options.
Exploring Sustainable Alternatives
As the transition period to 2035 unfolds, homeowners and the heating industry as a whole will have the opportunity to explore and invest in sustainable alternatives. One promising option is the use of renewable liquid fuels, such as Hydrotreated Vegetable Oil (HVO). These fuels offer a greener alternative to traditional heating oil and can be a viable choice for those seeking to drastically reduce their carbon footprint with very little or no work required to the existing heating system.
Exemptions and Support
It’s important to note that some households will enjoy exemptions from the requirement to transition beyond 2035. These exemptions will likely be based on specific criteria, such as the availability of alternative heating options and the feasibility of making the switch. Additionally, the government is expected to provide support and incentives to help households transition to more sustainable home heating solutions.
What do NWF Fuels Customers Need to do?
We are in regular communication with the UK and Ireland Fuel Distributors Association (UKIFDA) and we will keep you informed on any essential developments for off-grid heating. Rest assured, we work with the UK’s largest suppliers of liquid fuels and our expert team will be happy to support you in the event of a switch to renewable liquid fuels.