A ‘Pathway to Zero’ is the set of steps each home is recommended to take towards becoming completely free of carbon emissions in its energy use. Every home is different, but typically steps could include checking the insulation in cavity walls and loft; new windows and doors; replacing fossil fuel powered heating and hot water systems with energy efficient electric heating; and/or the installation of technologies that produce energy from renewable sources, such as solar panels.
Following an Elmhurst accredited survey, Sero’s experts use the data collected about the condition and services of the home to create a Pathway. Some homes may need other remedial building works to be completed before the examples of energy efficiency measures listed above can be installed. In most cases, homes also require a new ventilation system in order to improve the indoor air quality, and reduce the risk of condensation or damp. Our Pathways to Zero take all these considerations into account to create a tailor-made set of steps for each home.
Sero’s Pathways tools align with PAS 2035 legislation for retrofit; for those versed in PAS 2035 a Pathway can also be thought of as a Medium-Term Improvement Plan. More information on PAS 2035 can be found here.
Pathways to Zero recognises that the National Grid is decarbonising and forecasts each home’s ‘Zero Carbon By’ year in line with the Grid's ambitions. This means that once all steps on the Pathway are complete, the home will be ready to become Zero Carbon as soon as the grid has caught up!