In East Sussex, around 21,000 homes rely on oil for heating, and a new government consultation could shape which technologies they will be able to use in the future.
More than 3,000 oil-heated homes across England have already responded to the Alternative Clean Heating consultation, with many calling on the government to support renewable liquid fuels such as hydrotreated vegetable oil (HVO).
Paul Rose, CEO of OFTEC, and Ken Cronin, CEO of UKIFDA, said: “It’s very encouraging to see over 3,000 oil heated households have already responded to this new consultation in just a few weeks.
“This reflects the strength of feeling amongst homes on oil that they want affordable and practical solutions when it comes to switching to cleaner heating solutions.
“Current proposals often overlook the unique challenges of heating older properties, which those of us living in rural areas are all too aware of.
“We believe a fair transition must focus on choice and include options like renewable liquid fuels, which allow households to decarbonise without the stress of major building work or unmanageable costs.
“The good news is submitting your views is quick, easy and free. With only a few weeks remaining before the consultation closes, we urge households across the county to take this opportunity to ensure their voices are heard.”
Go to futurereadyfuel.info/consultation before February 10 for more information.
The government’s preferred approach is to move off-grid homes to heat pumps or heat networks, but the cost of switching from oil to a heat pump is estimated at £16,900 per household.
This figure does not include additional work often needed for older properties, such as insulation and radiator upgrades, to make heat pumps effective.
Even with a £7,500 grant available through the Boiler Upgrade Scheme, many residents would still face significant out-of-pocket expenses.
OFTEC and UKIFDA are submitting evidence from industry trials to the government as part of the consultation.
Renewable liquid fuels, such as HVO, could be used in existing oil boilers as a blend with kerosene and would reduce emissions without the need for major upfront costs.
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