Isle of Man to ban fossil fuel heating in new buildings

Mon, 07 Aug 2023

The Isle of Man is taking its next step towards net zero with a ban on fossil fuel heating in new buildings from 2025.

Plans for new buildings and extensions in the Isle of Man will be “required to feature low-carbon heating systems” from January 1, 2024.  

As part of the Island’s “commitment to achieve net-zero carbon emissions by 2050”, building control authorities will “reject new applications” for new buildings and extensions containing fossil fuel heating systems, “instead new builds will need to include low-carbon heating systems”.

According to the Isle of Man Government, this change is in preparation for the legal ban, which is set for the January 1, 2025. This is when it will be illegal to install a fossil fuel heating system in new buildings and extensions, including where planning permission or building control has already been granted.

Daphne Caine MHK, Chair of Climate Change Transformation Board said: “If we are to meet the Island’s net zero target, which is enshrined in law, it is essential we take swift action to move away from fossil fuels in building developments.

“Some developers have already made this move. Rejecting plans in 2024 will allow for a transition period, meaning we don’t continue to grant approval for new buildings with fossil fuel heating systems in the lead up to the ban in 2025.

“Moving away from heating buildings by burning fossil fuels will have a significant impact on reducing carbon emissions.  Those who buy new homes can be assured that their home is future-proofed against the need to have to switch heating systems at a later date.”

---