Scotland has implemented the New Build Heat Standard (NBHS), which was initially introduced in April 2024. This regulation means that all new buildings and conversions requiring a building warrant must utilise zero direct emissions heating systems, essentially phasing out fossil fuel-based heating, such as gas and oil boilers. In Scotland, a building warrant is an official legal approval issued by the local council that allows you to start construction or alteration work on a building. It confirms that the proposed work complies with the Scottish Building Standards.
Changes – effective January 2025:
In November 2024, following a period of review, there were changes made to the New Build Heating Standard. These came into force on 1 January 2025. These changes mean that bioenergy heating systems, such as wood-burning stoves, and other systems, such as peat-burning systems, can be installed in all new homes and buildings. The changes will also allow any type of secondary heating in new buildings. It does, however, remain the case that fossil fuel gas and oil boilers cannot be used as a mains heating system in new-build homes and buildings.
Key Goals of the New Build Heat Standard:
1. Ban on Fossil Fuel Heating: The NBHS prohibits the installation of direct emission heating systems, such as gas and oil boilers, in new constructions.
2. Adoption of Zero Emission Systems: Developers are required to install climate-friendly heating solutions, including heat pumps, heat networks, and other low-carbon technologies.
3. Flexibility for Rural and Island Communities: Acknowledging the unique challenges faced by remote areas, the standard allows the use of bioenergy heating systems, such as wood-burning stoves and peat-burning systems, as primary heating sources in new builds.
4. Allowance for Secondary Heating: The updated regulations allow the use of secondary heating systems in new buildings, providing additional comfort without relying on fossil fuels.
5. Heat Networks Classification: Heat networks are classified as clean heating under the NBHS, regardless of the fuel source used to power them.
The NBHS applies to:
1. All new buildings and some conversions where a building warrant was applied for on or after 1 April 2024
2. Systems used for heating and cooling, and hot water
The NBHS does not apply to:
1. Bioenergy, including wood burners, and peat-burning systems in new homes
2. Heating systems used in industrial processes
3. Emergency heating systems
4. Heating for the sole purpose of frost protection
5. Alterations, or extensions to buildings built under a warrant applied for before 1 April 2024
How a wood-burning stove contributes to zero emissions:
Renewable Energy Source: Wood is a renewable resource, meaning that as long as trees are replanted, wood can be sustainably harvested and used as fuel for stoves, unlike fossil fuels, which are finite.
Carbon Neutral: When burned properly, wood burning can be considered carbon neutral because the carbon dioxide (CO2) released is approximately the same amount as the tree absorbed while growing. This balance helps reduce overall greenhouse gas emissions.
Reduction of Waste: Wood-burning stoves can utilise waste wood, such as fallen branches and other wood by-products, helping forests to thrive.
Reduction of Energy Dependence: Wood-burning stoves offer an alternative to fossil fuels like gas and oil, thereby reducing reliance on non-renewable energy sources and minimising the environmental impact of their extraction and transportation.
Lower Greenhouse Gas Emissions: Ecodesign wood stoves that meet Ecodesign standards have advanced combustion technology, reducing particulate matter and carbon emissions compared to older models or open fires.
Localised Heating: Wood-burning stoves provide great localised heating, such as in one room, meaning that they can reduce the need for large-scale energy consumption used to heat entire homes, thereby lowering overall energy demands and costs.
Sustainable Forest Management: When sourced responsibly from well-managed forests, wood-burning stoves can encourage sustainable forest management practices that promote biodiversity and the health of ecosystems.
Learn more about the benefits of burning wood here:
Initial questions for new stove owners
Types of wood to burn
Psychological benefits of burning wood
How to overcome common wood-burning stove issues
What’s the best wood for your stove
