Big Retrofit Challenge

A bold new competition aimed at unearthing game-changing solutions in home decarbonisation.

Innovate UK, in partnership with the National Home Decarbonisation Group (NHDG) and Futurebuild, has launched the Big Retrofit Challenge. This competition presents a unique opportunity for innovators across the United Kingdom to showcase their cutting-edge solutions and bring their concepts to the forefront of the industry.

 With the UK working towards its net zero targets, the competition focuses on solutions that improve home energy efficiency, reduce carbon emissions, and promote healthier living environments. The aim is to discover not only new products but also innovative systems, processes, and approaches that transform how homes are retrofitted and renovated for a greener future.

Innovations should address key challenges such as:

• reducing exposure to damp and mould
• alleviating fuel poverty through energy efficiency
• improving health and wellbeing in homes
• engagement on behavioural change

Who Can Apply?

The competition is open to UK-registered businesses with an annual turnover of £15 million or less, with a focus on fostering innovation in smaller, less established organisations. Eligible innovations must be suitable for retrofitting or renovating existing homes, though solutions applicable to new builds will also be considered, provided they have relevance to retrofitting.

Key areas of focus include:

• solutions for existing homes and non-residential properties
• health-focused technologies that enhance indoor environments
• innovations that enable behavioural changes in building operation

The Road to Futurebuild 2025

As part of the competition, six finalists will be selected to present their solutions at Futurebuild 2025, one of the UK’s leading events for sustainable innovation in construction and design. These finalists will have the opportunity to:

• pitch their innovations live at the National Retrofit Conference (held as part of Futurebuild 2025)
• network with members of the National Home Decarbonisation Group
• discuss potential pilot projects with industry leaders, offering a direct pathway to market adoption and the chance to see their solutions in action on a live decarbonisation scheme

Find out more about the Big Retrofit Challenge and how to apply.

First published 20 October 2024