Fiona Hodgson

The government said its Heat in Buildings Public Engagement Strategy will guide its engagement work over the remainder of this Parliament and act as a blueprint for how it works and collaborates with partners, stakeholders and other trusted messengers to raise awareness of both energy efficiency and clean heat.

A new Strategic Public Engagement Delivery Partnership will be established to coordinate and ensure collaboration between all those involved in public engagement activity around energy efficiency and clean heat.

Fiona Hodgson said: “We welcome the start of this crucial dialogue by the Scottish Government and particularly applaud the increased commitment to incorporating industry expertise into establishing achievable targets. This represents a significant step forward and, hopefully, addresses the historical issue of setting unrealistic goals without essential input from those with practical experience.

“While we agree that achieving a better balance between political aspirations and public engagement is essential, it is equally vital to recognise the indispensable roles of professions like plumbing and heating. These professions are integral to the design, installation, and maintenance of heat pumps and district heating systems, as well as the decommissioning of fossil fuel boilers.

“Without their insights and the necessary development of professionals, both new and through upskilling the existing workforce, the conversation will achieve little more than hot air.

“We hope this comprehensive and inclusive conversation is a valuable step toward ensuring all stakeholders are actively engaged in the low-carbon transition from fossil fuels. It is a significant stride forward, fittingly coinciding with the COP 28 agreement on the same day.”