That is according to a new report from The Young Foundation, which reveals that retrofits are happening at just 10% of the pace needed, with underfunding, a fragmented workforce, and low consumer confidence holding progress back.
Energy-efficiency improvements are necessary for nearly 53% of London’s homes by the end of the decade, which would help cut 32% of the city’s residential CO2 emissions.
However, the report warns that vulnerable groups facing the greatest housing-related risks, such as disabled people, older adults, people from ethnic minority backgrounds, renters, and low-income households, are also the least likely to benefit from current retrofit schemes.
Inaccessible information, lack of support, and a “sense of disempowerment in a complex and technical system” are all making it harder for these groups to access the upgrades they need.
“A just transition in retrofits is essential to ensure that housing adaptation does not deepen existing inequalities and instead creates fair and inclusive conditions for all,” said Julie McLaren, interim director of sustainability and just transition at The Young Foundation.
“In London, this challenge translates to a considerable task of retrofitting upwards of two million homes by 2030. Getting this right won’t just make our homes more sustainable, it could also bring additional benefits, such as reducing energy bills and enhancing the comfort and health of occupants.
“This is about more than insulation and solar panels. It’s about ensuring London’s transition to a greener future is fair, inclusive, and responsive to people’s real lives.”
Despite 89% of Londoners being supportive of climate action, the report suggests that residents experience inconsistent retrofit outcomes, with communication breakdowns, disruption during works, and a lack of agency over decisions undermining trust and satisfaction.
It warns that one-size-fits-all models for retrofitting “don’t work”, and argues that tailored, community-led approaches are essential for uptake and equity.
Furthermore, it suggests that there are missed opportunities to coordinate retrofit efforts with healthcare, housing safety, and social services, which could lead to more efficient delivery and better outcomes.
Helen Goulden OBE, chief executive at The Young Foundation, said: “We’re seeing significant shifts in policy aimed at increasing access to retrofit and green technologies in people’s homes, and giving families more choice over home upgrades – but these will only significantly shift the dial if they reach every household and every community."
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Chris Seekings is the Deputy Editor of IEMA’s Transform magazine, which is published biomonthly for IEMA members. Chris’s role involves writing sustainability-related news, features and interviews, as well as helping to plan and manage the magazine’s other day-to-day activities.