Consultation on the banning of fossil fuel heating systems in homes released

Proposals in place to help IOM be net zero by 2050

People are being urged to share their thoughts about changing the date when homes in the Isle of Man must stop being built with fossil fuel heating systems.

A ban is due to be introduced in January 2025 but Tynwald is encouraging change to happen from August this year instead.

Government believes there would be a 62 per cent reduction in CO2 emissions by installing low carbon heating systems in properties.

The proposal does outline an exception for developments that have already received planning permission.

This means any planning applications approved after 1 August would not be given building control approval if they still intended using fossil fuel heating systems. 

The Isle of Man has committed to being net zero by 2050 which includes emission reduction targets for key sectors, including the heating of buildings. 

In 2025 gas and oil boilers will not be able to be installed in new homes and buildings irrespective of whether an applicant has current planning or building control approval. 

Daphne Caine, the chair of the Climate Change Transformation Board, says: "the Isle of Man must reduce the number of fossil fuel heating systems being installed if we are to reach our Climate Change Action Plan target of a 15 per cent reduction in emissions from buildings by 2027.

"Many developers are already delivering new builds with energy efficient, low carbon heating options.

"However the industry can operate with long lead-in times, so the proposal does not bring forward the date when installation becomes an offence, but allows a phased approach to the forthcoming ban in 2025."

The consultation - which is designed to capture the thoughts of individuals and the construction industry - will run until 12 May – you can find it HERE.