Homes currently using oil to provide heating and hot water should turn to 100% liquid biofuels, OFTEC research reveals.
OFTEC, the trade association of the UK oil heating industry, see a move away from fossil fuels to biofuels as a cost effective solution that will produce less carbon.
The publication of the research follows the government’s announcement that the UK is targeting ‘net zero’ emissions by 2050.
Biofuels are made up of any organic matter and OFTEC’s research supports either a 100% liquid biofuel or mixture of kerosene and fatty acid methyl esters (FAME).
The research also found that most homes using an oil boiler were old and detached, which would mean them investing in sufficient insulation to prevent ‘leaking heat’.
While these home improvements would reduce heat demand by keeping more warmth in the building, it would add to the costs and this hasn’t gone unnoticed by OFTEC.
OFTEC Chief Executive, Paul Rose said: “There is no way around the fact that this is going to be a vast and costly exercise, so government support will be vital to encourage consumer action.
“This is particularly true for those on lower incomes and given the higher rates of fuel poverty in rural areas, we must all ensure the transition to low carbon heat is fair, practical and as affordable as possible.”
