The Scottish Government has (19th September) issued a ministerial Direction to all councils which effectively overturns the ban on woodburning stoves in new-build properties – recent changes to Scottish Building Standards meant that stoves could no longer be fitted in new-build. The new Direction follows months of campaigning from industry groups after concerns were raised by MP’s, policymakers, environmental groups, and residents alike.
The legislative amendments to the Building Standards required to support the Ministerial Direction are expected to be completed by the end of this year.
The ban was introduced as a measure to reduce carbon dioxide emissions. However, critics rightly argued that biomass fuels like wood are not fossil fuel and that burning it for heating makes no difference to CO2 emissions. Indeed, it was pointed out that modern wood burning stoves are among the lowest carbon-emitting heating options available, significantly reducing carbon intensity compared to direct electric heating.
With respect to biofuels and biomass (wood) the Scottish government states that the current situation “is akin to the position before the New Build Heat Standard (NBHS) came into force on 1 April 2024, where no restrictions were placed on the use of either of these fuel types”.
Industry bodies welcomed the change. The Guild of Master Chimney Sweeps issued a statement saying: ‘We welcome this common sense Direction by the Scottish government to reverse the ban on wood stoves in new build properties. Wood other sustainable biomass fuels are part of the solution for reduced CO2 emissions. Aside from this, many people who use wood as a fuel are keen to preserve the independence and security they enjoy as well as the often overlooked wellbeing benefits of operating their own fire.’
Further information can be found via these links:
New Build Heat Standard Letter to Councils
