Public perceptions of heat decarbonization in Great Britain

Abstract

Heating contributes significant carbon emissions, especially in countries that rely heavily on natural gas as in the UK. Switching to low-carbon heating is imperative for reaching international climate change targets. Understanding public perceptions and acceptance of low-carbon heating systems is a crucial part of the successful rollout of alternatives. This review examines public perceptions of different low-carbon heating technologies, namely heat pumps, hydrogen boilers, hybrid heating systems, and district heating, as well as social factors such as heat experiences. The review focuses on the UK as a case study, which is characterized by high reliance on natural gas for heating with little progress to decarbonize this sector to date. The next years will be critical regarding decision-making on what low-carbon heating technologies to pursue. The review shows there is generally low awareness amongst the general public of the need to decarbonize heating and of the low-carbon heating alternatives. A number of factors have been identified as playing a crucial role in influencing public perceptions of all low-carbon heating systems, such as installation and running cost, thermal comfort, disruption, level of control, and environmental benefits. However, the acceptance of a new heating system is not simply the sum of several factors, as people's priorities vary across different contexts and technologies. Further public engagement on low-carbon heating and support (e.g., financial) is necessary for increasing uptake. Future research could explore comparisons between the different low-carbon heating technologies, key enabling factors, trade-offs, and concrete policy support. This article is categorized under: Climate and Environment > Net Zero Planning and Decarbonization Policy and Economics > Energy Transitions Human and Social Dimensions > Social Acceptance.