Warm Homes Plan recognises shading and cites BBSA

‘In all homes, priority should be given to installing low-cost, low-regret interventions such as internal blinds, external shutters, reflective window films, and cooler building materials.’

That’s according to the government’s new Warm Homes Plan which recognises shading as an adaptation measure to combat overheating in the summer and cites the BBSA’s data-backed research.

The BBSA research, also cited before by the Climate Change Committee, found that external shading could reduce indoor operative temperatures by 11–18°c. Internal blinds reduced those temperatures by 9–13°c.

The government document sets out how it plans to help people save money on energy bills and transform the UK’s ageing building stock into comfortable, low-carbon homes fit for the future.

The plan states: ‘Over the course of this Parliament, we will look to embed the most appropriate and cost-effective passive cooling measures into funding schemes targeting low-income households and social housing. We will also develop tailored consumer advice to support informed choices.

‘In all homes, priority should be given to installing low-cost, low-regret interventions such as internal blinds, external shutters, reflective window films, and cooler building materials. These measures enhance thermal comfort during hot weather and, when paired with active cooling, help mitigate energy bill increases – particularly for vulnerable households and buildings most at risk.’

It is the latest in a growing list of studies and reports to recognise that passive cooling measures – such as solar shading – can significantly reduce energy demand and avoid unnecessary costs and make buildings more comfortable.