Report into renewable heating sources published

A report shows current heating methods can be more efficient

A report which outlines three possible pathways to decarbonise heating systems in the Island's 43,000 homes and buildings has been published.

The Renewable Heating Scenarios Report was produced by London based low carbon specialist consultancy Gemserv, on behalf of the Manx Government's Climate Change Transformation Board.

The documents suggests current heating methods can be replaced by more efficient, low carbon systems such as air source heat pumps, direct electric, biofuels or district heating systems, where multiple buildings are heated from a central source. 

The report is compiled on the basis that the installation of fossil fuel systems will be gradually phased out from 2025, and compares relative costs and the level of change required.

The document concedes that the transition to low carbon heating sources comes with significant upfront costs. Much of the cost would come from the public purse, and private sector investment, but also - at least partially - from homeowners.

It's acknowledged that 92 per cent of the Isle of Man's electricty is currently generated from a gas fired power station.

The report says consumers must understand and buy into the need for change, the costs involved - and in some cases the long-term savings. Also, the funding and support mechanisms in place must ensure social fairness.

There is also a warning that even with the proposed measures a more universal, societial change will be needed if the Island is to reach its 2050 net zero target.