Retrofitting Infrastructure for Net Zero

According to the UK Green Building Council, 80% of the buildings we will use in 2050 have already been built. To ensure that these stocks are energy efficient, there must be a huge push for retrofitting. Our panel will discuss the largest challenges – and solutions – facing international decarbonisation efforts in retrofitting infrastructure to achieve Net Zero by 2050.

Retrofitting is a crucial step for building sustainable infrastructure as it helps buildings become more energy efficient and better withstand extreme weather events. It also aligns with ESG principles by promoting environmental sustainability and contributing to social wellbeing. Around the world, governments are implementing regulations and legislation to reduce emissions and promote sustainable building practices, the goals of which retrofitting can help achieve.

Some approaches to retrofitting infrastructure, such as the fabric first approach, prioritise optimising the performance of the buildings components and materials to achieve energy efficiency, before addressing at the energy mix. Using this method reduces the need for additional heating or cooling by enhancing insultation, thus minimising environmental impact by conserving resources, reducing waste and promoting sustainable construction. However, this approach does not always take into account embedded carbon, as focusing on fabric improvements can incur a significant carbon footprint associated with the materials used in construction, and sometimes investing in cheap renewable power instead can incur a bigger carbon saving.

Retrofitting assets represents a significant investment, which must be underpinned by data, and there is a complex mix of stakeholders and decision-makers involved – all with different data needs, agendas and objectives. In response, a whole ecosystem of technologies and tools is now emerging to support and accelerate decision making on investments at scale. Businesses can drive net-zero retrofits by combining financial incentives, regulatory compliance, and strategic investments. By embracing sustainability, they not only contribute to a greener future but also enhance their own resilience and competitiveness.

We will explore innovative strategies and practical solutions utilised by our speakers’ organisations as they strive to set new standards in retrofitting infrastructure for a Net Zero future and meet climate targets. Our panel will speak from experience in working on large retrofitting programmes in the UK and internationally and discuss the Net Zero value chain, catalysing clean tech investments, innovations in materials and renewable technologies, and the role of standards and regulation.