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Retro-fit Series

We are thrilled to announce the launch of an exclusive series of articles on the practice of retrofitting. These articles aim to provide valuable insights into the world of retrofitting, specifically tailored for procurement and infrastructure professionals working in local government.

Retrofitting represents the single biggest environmental challenge as the UK seeks to keep its net zero commitments. This series aims to provide legal and policy ideas for retrofit. It helps practitioners to deliver in this critical area. Understanding the legal and technical landscape surrounding retrofitting is crucial for professionals involved in implementing projects and ensuring compliance.

In this comprehensive series, we delve into various aspects of retrofitting that will equip you with the necessary knowledge and tools to navigate this complex field effectively. The articles cover the following topics:

  1. Why Retrofit? – Exploring the compelling argument for retrofitting initiatives, including a look at the built environment and additional considerations for local authorities.
  2. Obligations on Local Authorities to Retrofit – Examining the legal obligations placed on local authorities to prioritise and execute retrofitting projects, including energy efficiency measures, building regulations, future building standards and scope of action.
  3. Legislation Governing Retrofit Energy Efficiency Measures – Analysing the Building Regulations 2010, considering its scope, practical considerations of the regulations for retrofitting projects.
  4. Retrofit Programs Carried out by Local Authorities – Highlighting successful retrofitting programs implemented by local authorities throughout the UK, showcasing best practices and their overall impact on the community and exploring the Energiesprong Model.
  5. Grant Funding Available for Local Authorities – Providing insights into the diverse grant schemes available and previous schemes available to local authorities for retrofitting projects, focusing on eligibility criteria and the application processes.

This series will provide invaluable knowledge and empower you to make informed decisions regarding retrofitting initiatives within your communities. To view the series in full, please click here.

Please reach out via email: sgummer@sharpepritchard.co.uk if you wish to discuss any of the initiatives raised within the series.

Download PDF Part one: Why Retrofit? Some background first The Climate Change Act 2008 sets a legal target for the UK to reduce greenhouse gas emissions by at least 80% of the 1990 baseline by 2050. In June 2019, secondary legislation was passed that extended that target to 100% (“Net Zero”). The pathway to 2050…

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Download PDF Part Two: Legislation governing retrofit energy efficiency measures Scope The Building Regulations 2010 (“Building Regulations”) are the main piece of legislation setting out the building control regime in England and Wales, which is relevant to retrofit energy efficiency measures. The Building Regulations derive from the Building Act 1984 and the Building Regulations came…

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Download PDF Part Three: Obligations on local authorities to retrofit Summary There are currently no obligations on local authorities (‘LAs’) to retrofit the built environment in England. However, LAs will be subject to improved energy standards from 2025 that apply when refurbishments are carried out, thus leading to retrofit energy efficiency measures. In the meantime,…

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Download PDF Part Four: Retrofit programmes carried out by local authorities Local authorities have set out a number of programmes to retrofit the building stock within their areas. Two of the largest retrofit programmes in England are Retrofit London and Retrofit GM. Retrofit London In December 2019, all 33 London Councils agreed on a Joint…

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Download PDF Part Five: The Retrofit series: Grant funding available for local authorities Background The UK government has set a target of achieving net-zero carbon emissions by 2050. Retrofitting is an important part of this effort, as buildings are responsible for a significant portion of the UK’s carbon emissions. Local authorities (“LAs”) have an important…

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On 25 July 2024, the Department of Energy Security and Net Zero (DESNZ) introduced the Great British Energy Bill, and Prime Minister Keir Starmer announced the strategy for this new policy. What is GB Energy? Great British Energy (GB Energy) is one of the new UK government’s flagship policies: a state-owned company to increase renewable…

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Following Labour’s rise to government after the general election, Chancellor of the Exchequer Rachel Reeves announced a key series of reforms centred around stability, investment, and reform. These proposals aim to kickstart economic growth and improve living standards through increased infrastructure. A key step outlined by Reeves was the government’s announcement to lift the ban…

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The Manchester Ship Canal Company Ltd (Appellant) v United Utilities Water Ltd (Respondent) No 2 – Marcic reimagined – The scope for nuisance claims being brought against water companies has just been expanded and not necessarily clarified. Earlier this month, the Supreme Court issued a judgment which has the potential to be a watershed moment…

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