Scotland’s consumer watchdog has launched an investigation into safeguards in the green home heating market, amidst concern about “misleading claims, rogue traders and scams”.
Demand for green heating products like heat pumps, solar panels and insulation is expected to rise as part of the country’s transition to net zero.
The Government’s proposed Heat in Buildings Bill is likely to mean that 2.4 million homes in Scotland will need to convert to cleaner heating systems by the end of 2045.
Consumer Scotland, the nation’s statutory body for consumers, is investigating whether consumers entering the market for “clean” heating products have access to high quality sources of advice and information, and strong consumer protections.
The investigation will also look at whether consumers are presented with fair and affordable incentives, and whether the product choices they are offered are competitive and clear.
Sam Ghibaldan, Consumer Scotland chief executive, said: “The transition to clean heating and decarbonised, energy efficient homes will result in major benefits for consumers.
“While many early adopters of low carbon and energy efficiency technology have had positive experiences, there are reports the sector doesn’t always enjoy optimal consumer confidence. That includes evidence of low consumer awareness, misleading claims, rogue traders and scams.
“Strong consumer demand for green technologies will be key to achieving Scotland’s net-zero targets and that requires consumer confidence and incentives. As the pace of adoption increases, consumers need to be protected and supported throughout the process.”
Consumer Scotland will also produce a set of recommendations to help ensure consumer protections are put in place, and to ensure people have the confidence to decarbonise and improve the energy efficiency of their homes.
As part of its investigation, Consumer Scotland is canvassing the views of individuals and organisations “from across the sector and beyond” and has issued a call for submissions.
Mr Ghibaldan said: “We are keen to hear the views of organisations and individuals from across the sector and beyond to help us fully understand the strengths and weaknesses of the current market.”
The investigation has been welcomed by Trading Standards Scotland (TSS), the body that protects consumers from illegal practices and supports business compliance with regulations.
Fiona Richardson, TSS chief officer, said: “Although the transition to decarbonised and energy-efficient homes promises significant benefits for consumers in Scotland, our enforcement actions, advice, and campaigns have continued to focus on combating scams, product mis-selling, and rogue trading in the sector.
“In order to fulfil these targets in the years ahead, we must ensure that consumers are empowered to make safe and informed choices.
“We look forward to working with Consumer Scotland to seek positive outcomes for consumers in this vital market.”
A Scottish Government spokesman said: “We welcome Consumer Scotland’s investigation.
“Scotland’s heat transition offers huge consumer benefits and significant commercial opportunities.
“However, it is important that consumers have confidence that work will be carried out to a high standard by reputable installers, represents good value for money and achieves the outcomes customers expect.
“We received more than 1,700 responses to our consultation on proposals for a Heat In Buildings Bill. We are currently considering these before confirming next steps.
“Our policy proposals are designed to apply where affordable, fair and feasible – to make sure that any changes we may ask home and business owners to make are consistent with the Scottish Government’s commitment to a just transition.”
