Green sector growth: three times faster than the UK economy

The Net Zero factor New analysis from the Energy & Climate Intelligence Unit found that the net zero sector is growing at triple the rate of the UK's economy. This is creating high-paying jobs across the country, while cutting emissions and increasing energy security. Green sectors such as clean energy, EVs, green finance and railways are growing expandingly, with a growth of 10% in 2024 and 9% in 2023. These sectors employ almost a million people in full-time jobs. Green sectors also help balance job distribution, which is often concentrated in London and the South East. Net zero jobs are…
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A turning point in the global climate story?

EU emissions plummet... and China's may have peaked As the world battled the intensifying impacts of the climate crisis in 2024 - from record-breaking heatwaves to devastating floods - an important, and perhaps underappreciated, trend emerged from the data: emissions in some parts of the world have not only slowed but dropped sharply. This signals that, despite the gravity of our environmental challenges, change is not only possible - it is already underway. In October 2024, new data revealed that greenhouse gas emissions in the European Union (EU) fell by a remarkable 8% in 2023. The drop places emissions across…
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How the Net Zero Strategy is reshaping Business

Councillor Steve Evans, City of Wolverhampton Council's cabinet member for city environment and climate change, with council parking attendant Jaswant Bhambra and the new all-electric vans A defining moment for UK businesses The UK has committed to achieving net zero carbon emissions by 2050, an ambitious target that is already reshaping the business landscape. As we move further into 2025, businesses across all sectors are facing new challenges and opportunities as they adapt to policies and regulations designed to accelerate decarbonisation. With key milestones such as a 78% emissions reduction by 2035 and the phasing out of petrol and diesel…
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2024 was a chaotic weather year

The effects of climate change are becoming more evident 2024 was a record-breaking year for extreme weather in the UK. Storms and floods caused an unprecedented level of damage to homes and businesses, leaving many homeowners facing costly repairs and insurance claims. Heavy rainfall, high winds, and flooding were more frequent and severe. With climate risks intensifying, homeowners can no longer afford to be reactive. Instead, proactive measures like retrofitting offer a long-term solution to protect properties against extreme weather. Retrofitting homes with better insulation, flood resistance, and storm-proof features is not just about avoiding damage - it is about…
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The Future of Retrofit: what to expect in 2025

What lies ahead... As leading UK retrofit specialists, PRL has witnessed significant changes in the industry over the past few years. The urgency of decarbonisation, rising energy costs, and stricter building regulations have all contributed to a rapid evolution in retrofit practices. Now that we find ourselves once again at the start of a new year, it is essential to consider what lies ahead for homeowners, landlords, and industry professionals alike. The drive for energy efficiency We feel that one of the biggest drivers for retrofit in 2025 will continue to be energy efficiency. The UK government's net-zero targets mean…
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Octopus Energy customers to receive £676 in savings

New Ofgem regulations lead the way Consumers are celebrating as Octopus Energy announces a new plan that could see customers save up to £676 over two years. This significant step forward is tied to new regulations by Ofgem, the UK's energy regulator, which will mandate energy suppliers to provide "zero standing charge" tariffs, alongside their existing offerings. Starting in January, this shift promises substantial relief, particularly for households that use less energy. Here's what this ground-breaking initiative means for energy consumers - and just why it matters. The lowdown on standing charges Standing charges are fixed daily costs added to…
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Cracking the energy efficiency code

Why is retrofitting UK homes thought to be such a challenge? Have you read this BBC article: "An energy efficient home - why is it so difficult?" (Published: 12 November 2024). The article deals with some homeowners who are finding it quite a task to get retrofit help and advice. Around 29 million British homes require retrofitting by 2050, according to the UK Green Building Council, an industry body. Did you know that, under PAS 2035:2019 guidance, all domestic retrofit projects should use a Retrofit Coordinator? The drive to make UK homes more energy efficient is an essential part of combating…
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Keeping your home cosy and energy efficient as the nights draw in

How to prepare for an energy-efficient autumn/winter season As the cooler months set in across the UK, there's no better time to ensure your home is ready to combat the autumn and winter chill. Retrofitting an older home with energy-efficient upgrades not only helps to keep it warm, but also reduces heating costs and carbon emissions. The benefits of an energy-efficient home A well-prepared home is vital for enduring the colder months, and retrofitting can yield multiple advantages: Lower Energy Bills: efficient insulation and heating systems reduce reliance on constant heating, keeping bills manageable. Increased Comfort: insulation and draught-proofing retain…
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Eco-friendly ways to make the most of autumn

Welcoming autumn into our homes and gardens As the vibrant colours of autumn unfold - and the inclement weather returns - many of us are reflecting on how to make our homes cosier and our gardens more inviting. This season is the perfect time to implement eco-friendly habits that benefit both the environment and our households. From energy savings to wildlife conservation, this blog provides practical tips to help you make this autumn your greenest yet. Preparing your home for cooler days As temperatures begin to drop, the temptation to turn up the heating can be strong. However, energy use…
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August was the UK’s greenest ever month

August 2024: a record-breaking month The UK's electricity grid had its greenest ever month in August, when the amount of power generated by fossil fuels fell to a record low. Data shows that both wind and solar produced more electricity than gas throughout the month. The amount of power generated by fossil fuels dropped to 3.6 terawatt-hours (TWh). By comparison, even in lockdown, it never fell below 4TWh. The figures come as the UK's last coal-fired power plant at Ratcliffe-on-Soar prepares to close on September 30th, marking the end of coal-fired power in the UK. At its peak, coal provided more than…
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