SNIPEF has raised concerns that the Scottish government’s announcement on a revised Heat in Buildings Bill failed to address the core challenge of how decarbonisation will be delivered, with no mention of workforce skills, installer training or targeted support for small and medium-sized businesses (SME’s).
The organisation said this support is crucial, as 80% of heat pump installations are expected to be completed by SME’s.
While welcoming the move to more realistic long-term targets and a renewed focus on fuel poverty, SNIPEF stated that the announcement lacked critical detail on how Scotland will develop the skilled workforce and business capacity required to install low-carbon heating at scale.
Fiona Hodgson, chief executive of SNIPEF, said: “We support the government’s intention to move away from immediate restrictions on homeowners and instead focus on national targets. That change of tone is constructive and gives the plumbing and heating profession a clearer signal on the direction of travel.
“But today’s announcement is silent on how the work will actually get done. There is no reference to skills, vocational training or business support; yet these are the foundations on which success depends. Without them, we risk setting targets that are simply undeliverable.”
SNIPEF also highlighted the financial strain facing smaller businesses, particularly in relation to rising apprenticeship costs following the significant increase in minimum apprentice wage rates.
The Federation has called on the Scottish government to ensure that the forthcoming Bill and accompanying policy measures include:
- Dedicated and accessible funding for SMEs to support upskilling and investment in low-carbon technologies.
- Increased investment in apprenticeships and vocational education to grow a future-ready workforce.
- Clear, stable policy direction that enables businesses to plan and invest with confidence.
Fiona added: “Around 80% of our members still work in the traditional heating market. They are willing to play a key role in Scotland’s transition, but they can’t do that without practical support. Skills, training and SME capacity must be at the heart of the next stage.
“Apprenticeship funding has remained stagnant for over eight years, placing additional financial strain on small businesses already managing rising employer National Insurance contributions, increased minimum wage rates and growing operational costs.
“These pressures are real, and without targeted intervention, they risk choking off the very workforce we need to deliver change.”