Delays to Key Legislation Could Cost Jobs and Economic Growth
The Heat in Buildings Bill is being hailed as a crucial driver of Scotland’s low-carbon transition, but industry leaders and advocates warn that further delays could put thousands of jobs and training opportunities at risk. The Existing Homes Alliance (EHA), a coalition of housing, environmental, and industry organisations, is urging the Scottish Government to introduce the Bill without delay, emphasizing the economic and employment benefits at stake.
Unlocking Green Jobs and Economic Growth
The Heat in Buildings Bill is designed to set the standards for how Scotland will reduce carbon emissions from homes, improve energy efficiency, and transition to low-carbon heating systems. If enacted, the Bill would stimulate investment in sustainable technology and create thousands of jobs. According to Scottish Government analysis, the shift to low-carbon heating could generate approximately 16,400 jobs by 2030. However, the EHA warns that every delay risks driving investment elsewhere, leaving Scotland’s workforce behind in the transition.
Gillian Campbell, Co-director of the EHA, highlighted the urgency of the matter:
“A Heat in Buildings Bill will give confidence to industry and kickstart investment in jobs and skills, providing exciting opportunities for our young people and investing in communities across Scotland. We have the opportunity to position Scotland as a leader and innovator, but unless industry gets clarity soon, that leadership position will fade, and the investment will go elsewhere – with Scotland’s young people missing out.”
Industry Calls for Policy Certainty
Businesses and industry leaders are aligning with the EHA’s call for swift legislative action. Many argue that policy certainty is essential to drive private-sector investment and innovation in renewable heating and energy-efficient building solutions.
James Chaplen, Head of Product Marketing and Communications at Mitsubishi Electric, stressed the importance of clear government policy:
“There is a strong desire by households to decarbonise their heating. And there are overwhelming economic growth and investment opportunities for renewable heating in Scotland. For this to be achieved, industry needs certainty. With certainty of policy and direction from government, industry can be given the confidence it needs. As the largest manufacturer of heat pumps in the UK, operating from a factory in Scotland, certainty will encourage businesses to invest and innovate at a more rapid rate and show the dynamism that exists for growth.”
The renewable heating sector, particularly heat pumps, is expected to play a significant role in Scotland’s decarbonisation efforts. However, to meet climate goals, the installation rate of such technology must accelerate significantly.
David Cowdrey, Acting Chief Executive of The MCS Foundation, noted:
“MCS data shows that Scotland has long been a UK leader for the installation of renewable technology in homes. But to meet climate goals, the rate of installation of heat pumps must be massively accelerated, and we need the Heat in Buildings Bill to provide the certainty to make that happen.”
Building a Workforce for the Future
The transition to a low-carbon economy is not only about sustainability—it is also about creating meaningful employment and career pathways for young people across Scotland. The construction and energy sectors are expected to see significant demand for skilled workers as the country moves towards a greener future. Industry leaders argue that a clear legislative framework will allow training programmes and apprenticeships to develop in step with sectoral needs.
Scott Sanford, Technical and Skills Manager at the Scottish and Northern Ireland Plumbing Employers Federation (SNIPEF), underscored the role of strategic workforce development:
“The construction sector has long been a cornerstone of opportunity, offering a diverse array of fulfilling careers accessible to individuals from all backgrounds. It is imperative that the Government prioritises the development, implementation, and steadfast commitment to robust medium- and long-term strategic planning for this vital sector. With its pivotal role in housebuilding, energy, infrastructure, and manufacturing, strategic investment is essential.”
The Cost of Inaction
With the end of the parliamentary session fast approaching, the window for passing the Heat in Buildings Bill is narrowing. If the Bill is not introduced soon, there is a real risk that it will not be passed in time—an outcome that could slow Scotland’s progress toward net-zero emissions, stall job creation, and deter much-needed investment in new technology.
Beyond environmental concerns, the consequences of inaction could be economic. Without a solid policy foundation, businesses may hesitate to invest in workforce development, leading to a skills gap that could hinder Scotland’s ability to meet its climate targets. Moreover, young workers may miss out on training and employment opportunities in emerging green industries.
The message from industry leaders is clear: Scotland has a chance to lead in the global transition to low-carbon heating and energy efficiency, but it must act now. If the Heat in Buildings Bill is delayed any further, the economic and employment opportunities it promises may be lost to other regions that are quicker to embrace the green economy.
As the clock ticks down, all eyes are on the Scottish Government to take decisive action and ensure that Scotland’s workforce is equipped for the sustainable future ahead.
