The aspirational target to reach Net Zero by 2030 also includes manses, alongside church buildings. Just like for churches, this means reducing energy usage and improving energy efficiency, to minimise the carbon emissions from the manse.
Again, like churches, there are different works that can be done to reach net zero, depending on the manse. However, the first step for all manses is to calculate the carbon footprint. You can use the Carbon Calculator for Homes on the Climate Stewards website to do this. The Net Zero Checklist for Manses can then help you to identify and plan the next steps. These might include attending to maintenance issues, switching to a green energy supply and installing a smart meter and smart controls for the heating system, before moving on to larger interventions such as installing a heat pump or solar panels.
EPC Certificates
The guidelines on manse provision (CPD, Book VII, Part 2.3) state that an incoming minister should be provided with a current Energy Performance Certificate, and that 'Circuits should seek to provide manses to meet a minimum of a 'C' energy efficiency rating.'
If a manse does not have a valid EPC certificate (i.e. more than 10 years old), then arrange to get a new one. The Energy Saving Trust has a Guide to EPC's here.
Resources and Case Studies
- Net Zero Checklist for Manses
- Retrofit Guide for Manses
- Case Study- Nottingham North East Circuit
- Case Study- Bristol Vicarage (Church of England)
- Case Study- Natland Vicarage (Church of England)
Further Links
- Energy Saving Trust's Energy at Home
- Energy Saving Trust's Heating Systems guidance
- Energy Saving Trust's Insulation guidance
- Historic England's guidance on Energy Efficiency
- LETI's Retrofit Guide
- RICS's guide to Retrofitting
- RISE's guidance on the Fabric First Approach to Retrofitting
Funding
Boiler Upgrade Scheme
The Boiler Upgrade Scheme provides grants to cover part of the cost of replacing fossil fuel heating systems with a heat pump or biomass boiler, for a home or in buildings used for a business. It's open to people in England or Wales. Your installer will apply on your behalf, with the value of the grant being taken off the amount you then pay for the installation. You can find more information here.
Workplace Charging Scheme
The Workplace Charging Scheme provides grants towards the costs of the purchase and installation of electric vehicle chargepoints at places of work. Manses are eligible. The scheme covers up to 75% of the total costs, capped at a maximum of 40 sockets across all sites per applicant, so a circuit could apply to install sockets at all of its manses. You can find more information and apply here. Please note, the scheme is due to close on 31 March 2026.