The construction sector is set to benefit from £12 million in Scottish Government funding, allocated via the Public Sector Heat Decarbonisation Fund, to transform ten public buildings into more energy-efficient, low-carbon assets. The grants, which range from £41,000 to £2.5 million, will support critical upgrade works such as installing new clean heating systems to replace older gas and oil boilers, enhancing building insulation, fitting new windows, and installing solar panels.

These deep retrofit construction efforts are a key part of Scotland’s strategy to achieve net zero emissions by 2045.

One of the largest individual projects funded is the historic Mitchell Library in Glasgow, which is receiving over £2m to completely overhaul its energy infrastructure. This substantial construction project will involve replacing the existing gas boiler with a system of high-efficiency air and water source heat pumps, alongside upgrades to the electrical infrastructure, insulation, and the installation of new solar PV.

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Glasgow Life’s Facilities Manager, Andy Taylor, commented that the investment represents a significant step for the city’s journey towards net zero, stating: "Working closely with our brilliant partners at CBRE Global Workplace Solutions, this project proves that large historic and complex buildings can be decarbonised at scale while remaining in public use, as we strive to create a greener, more energy-efficient Glasgow for generations to come."

Climate Action and Energy Secretary Gillian Martin announced the successful awards, emphasising the importance of the construction work: "By investing in clean heating and energy-saving measures now, we are not only reducing emissions but also lowering energy costs for years to come."

Other significant construction projects receiving funding include:

• Midlothian Council: Receiving the maximum £2.5m grant for Midlothian House. The project will replace existing gas boilers with a new air source heat pump and deliver extensive fabric upgrades, new efficient glazing, and a heat recovery ventilation system.

• Clackmannanshire Council: Awarded £2.2m to prepare Alva and Banchory Primary Schools for future heat network connection through energy efficiency upgrades and the installation of renewable energy generation technologies.

• South Ayrshire Council: Secured almost £1.72m for Troon Pool. The construction scope includes installing roof and wall insulated cladding, double glazing, a new heat recovery unit, and the installation of solar PV.

• Fife Council: Receiving almost £1.6m (£1,591,468) for upgrades across Aberhill, St Agatha’s and Carnegie Primary Schools, where existing gas boilers will be replaced with air source heat pumps, alongside improvements to insulation and the installation of solar PV and new building management systems.

The investment confirms the public sector’s leading role in the national construction and retrofit push to meet Scotland’s climate targets.