The Building Controls Industry Association (91����) welcomes the announcement. Raising the minimum standard from EPC E to EPC B sends a clear signal that improving building performance is becoming an increasingly pressing priority. It reflects the crucial role that non-domestic buildings must play in reducing energy consumption, lowering carbon emissions and supporting the UK's wider net zero ambitions.

However, achieving EPC B at scale will require more than replacing equipment or undertaking expensive refurbishment projects. It will require a greater focus on how buildings function day-to-day and a recognition that some of the most significant energy savings can be achieved through smarter building operation.

This is where building controls and Building Energy Management Systems (BEMS) have a critical role to play.

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What has the Government announced?

Under the Government's proposals, privately rented buildings in England and Wales with a floor area of more than 1,000 square metres will be required to achieve a minimum EPC B rating by 2031, where improvements are considered cost-effective.

Buildings below 1,000 square metres will continue to be subject to the existing minimum standard of EPC E, with no confirmed timetable for introducing higher requirements.

The Government has also confirmed that existing flexibility measures will remain in place, including:

·        the seven-year payback test

·        existing exemptions where improvements are not practical or cost effective

·        a continued focus on proportionate investment

These measures recognise that improving energy efficiency must remain commercially viable while supporting wider decarbonisation ambitions.

A welcome step forward – but only part of the journey

The new proposals represent genuine progress, yet they should also be viewed as the beginning of a wider conversation about building performance

Although buildings larger than 1,000 square metres account for only around 7% of non-domestic buildings, they are responsible for more than half of the sector's total floor space and energy consumption. Improving the performance of these buildings therefore offers significant opportunities to reduce energy use, lower carbon emissions and cut operational costs.

The proposals also provide greater certainty for building owners, investors and occupiers as expectations around sustainability and energy performance continue to increase.

Nevertheless, limiting the new requirements to larger buildings means thousands of smaller commercial properties will remain outside the scope of the proposed changes for the foreseeable future.

While this is disappointing, the direction of travel is clear. Expectations around commercial building energy performance will continue to rise, and organisations that begin improving their buildings now will be better placed to meet future regulatory and commercial demands.

EPC ratings are only part of the story

Energy Performance Certificates remain an important policy tool. They provide a useful benchmark and help create a consistent framework for improving energy efficiency across the built environment.

However, EPCs provide an indication of a building's theoretical energy efficiency and do not necessarily reflect how efficiently a building performs in operation.

Across the commercial property sector, it is common to find buildings consuming significantly more energy than they need because heating, cooling, ventilation and lighting systems are not operating efficiently. Buildings are often heated when unoccupied, ventilation systems run regardless of demand and cooling systems operate unnecessarily because controls are poorly configured or no longer reflect how the building is used.

As a result, buildings can achieve acceptable EPC ratings while still wasting substantial amounts of energy.

This so-called performance gap is becoming increasingly significant. Improving how buildings operate in practice will become just as important as improving the building fabric itself.

Building controls provide one of the most effective routes to better performance

Building automation and controls provide one of the most effective and cost-efficient ways to improve operational building performance.

Modern Building Energy Management Systems (BEMS) continuously monitor, analyse and optimise building services in response to occupancy levels, weather conditions, internal temperatures and operational demand. Rather than relying on fixed schedules, systems can respond dynamically throughout the day, ensuring energy is only used when and where it is needed.

This enables building owners and facilities managers to reduce energy consumption, lower carbon emissions, improve occupant comfort and optimise operational performance.

Crucially, many of these improvements can be achieved without major structural interventions or costly refurbishment programmes.

The 91����'s white paper, Comfort, Efficiency and Health: The Untapped Potential of Building Energy Management Systems, demonstrates the scale of the opportunity.

Independent analysis found that advanced Class A BEMS deliver average energy and carbon savings of around 30%. The research also found that a typical 1,000m² office building can achieve a return on investment of 143% over ten years, with a payback period of approximately four years.

The same analysis found that advanced building controls represent the most cost-effective route to improving building performance over a ten-year period, delivering significant energy and carbon savings while generating a strong return on investment.

For organisations preparing for EPC B, that is a compelling proposition.

The benefits go far beyond energy savings

Improving building performance is not simply about reducing energy consumption.

Advanced building controls also deliver wider benefits for occupants, organisations and the economy.

The 91����'s research suggests that improved comfort in office environments could contribute an additional £12.75 billion in annual Gross Value Added by 2050, while helping to reduce workforce sickness absence by around 2 million days every year.

In education, the analysis estimates that 552,000 more pupils could have passed national examinations in 2024 if advanced Class A BEMS had been installed in every classroom.

These findings reinforce a wider point: building performance is not just an energy issue - it is also a productivity issue, a health issue and an economic issue.

As organisations place greater emphasis on employee wellbeing, operational resilience and sustainability performance, intelligent building operation is becoming a strategic business priority.

A missed opportunity for smaller buildings

While the 91���� welcomes the Government's ambition for larger buildings, it is disappointing that the new requirements will not extend to buildings less than 1,000 square metres. These buildings undoubtedly offer significant opportunities for energy savings and carbon reduction. However, they represent only a small proportion of the UK's total non-domestic building stock.

Thousands of smaller commercial buildings will remain subject to the existing EPC E requirement, with no confirmed roadmap for further improvement. Collectively, these buildings still consume substantial amounts of energy and represent a major opportunity to improve performance across the wider built environment.

Many of these buildings could achieve meaningful reductions in energy consumption through relatively straightforward operational improvements and upgrades to building controls.

While the Government's proposals represent welcome progress, the 91���� would like to see a clearer long-term pathway for improving the energy performance of smaller non-domestic buildings. If the UK is serious about reducing emissions, improving productivity and lowering energy costs across the economy, these buildings cannot be overlooked indefinitely.

Preparing for 2031 starts today

Although the proposed deadline may appear some way off, improving commercial buildings is rarely a quick process. ‍

Property owners may need to assess existing assets, prioritise investment, develop phased improvement programmes and coordinate upgrades across multiple sites. Organisations with large property portfolios may also need to balance compliance requirements against budget constraints and lease arrangements.

Building controls should therefore be viewed as an early priority rather than a final addition. By understanding how buildings are currently performing, organisations can identify where operational improvements will deliver the greatest return while helping to support future EPC B compliance.

Beyond EPC B

‍The Government's announcement is about more than meeting regulations. ‍

Industry attention is also shifting towards actual building performance. Initiatives such as the UK Net Zero Carbon Buildings Standard reflect a growing emphasis on how buildings perform in use rather than how they are expected to perform on paper.

The Government's announcement therefore presents an opportunity not only to improve compliance, but also to improve the way commercial buildings are managed and operated, delivering benefits that extend beyond energy savings to include lower operating costs, improved occupant comfort and stronger environmental performance.

The 91���� welcomes the Government's commitment to strengthening minimum energy efficiency standards for larger non-domestic buildings. While the proposals could have gone further by including a greater proportion of non-domestic buildings, they represent a positive step towards improving the performance of the built environment.

Building controls have a critical role to play in helping organisations meet these higher standards. Independent analysis undertaken for the 91���� has shown that advanced Building Energy Management Systems are among the most cost-effective measures available to improve building performance, delivering significant energy and carbon savings while generating a strong return on investment.

As organisations prepare for EPC B, building controls form an important part of the solution, helping building owners and operators improve performance, reduce energy consumption and maximise the value of their assets.

As the Government's proposals develop, the 91���� will continue to work with industry and policymakers to ensure building automation and controls remain central to delivering a more energy-efficient, productive and sustainable built environment.

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Recent media coverage has focused on worker safety, productivity and suggestions that schools may eventually need to rethink exam schedules to avoid peak summer heat. For those of us working in building performance and controls, these warnings should not come as a surprise. Throughout my time in the industry, I have seen how quickly building performance moves up the agenda once organisations recognise the direct link between occupant wellbeing, operational efficiency and business outcomes.

For many years, the industry has rightly focused on improving energy efficiency and reducing carbon emissions. Those priorities remain essential. What is becoming increasingly clear, however, is that buildings must also be capable of adapting to a hotter future.

Overheating is no longer just a comfort issue

Overheating has direct implications for worker productivity, occupant wellbeing, learning outcomes and operational resilience.

Poor indoor environmental quality can affect concentration, fatigue, cognitive performance and sickness absence. In schools, excessive heat and poor ventilation can influence learning outcomes. In healthcare environments, overheating creates additional risks for vulnerable patients and clinical operations.

The Climate Change Committee has highlighted the need for greater heat resilience across the UK, placing increasing pressure on building owners and operators to maintain healthy indoor environments while continuing to meet decarbonisation objectives. This is where building performance and climate adaptation become inseparable.

Why building energy management systems matter

Building energy management systems (BEMS) and smart building controls provide a practical and scalable way to address overheating risk while supporting operational efficiency.

Modern BEMS can continuously monitor and optimise heating, cooling and ventilation systems in response to occupancy levels, internal conditions and external weather patterns. Rather than operating building services according to fixed schedules, intelligent building operation allows buildings to respond dynamically throughout the day.

This approach helps maintain thermal comfort and indoor environmental quality while avoiding unnecessary energy consumption. That balance is becoming increasingly important as organisations seek to improve both climate resilience and operational building performance.

Adaptation and decarbonisation must work together

Climate adaptation and building decarbonisation are often treated as separate challenges. In reality, they are closely connected. Buildings that struggle with overheating frequently rely on reactive cooling strategies that increase energy demand and operating costs. Smart HVAC controls enable a more intelligent approach, helping buildings maintain comfortable conditions while using energy more efficiently.

The goal should not simply be cooler buildings. It should be future-ready buildings that deliver comfort, efficiency and resilience simultaneously.

This is not a theoretical challenge. It is one we have already explored in detail through our white paper, Comfort, Efficiency and Health: The Untapped Potential of Building Energy Management Systems.

The findings demonstrate that advanced Class A BEMS can deliver substantial benefits beyond energy savings alone. Research suggests improved comfort in office environments could contribute an additional £12.75 billion in annual GVA by 2050, while advanced BEMS could help reduce workforce sick days by 2 million per year. In education, the analysis estimates that 552,000 more pupils could have passed national exams in 2024 if Class A BEMS had been installed in every classroom.

These findings reinforce an important point. Occupant wellbeing, worker productivity and learning outcomes are increasingly becoming building performance issues.

A more connected strategy is needed

The growing focus on overheating in buildings also raises important policy questions. The UK needs a more joined-up strategy that connects climate adaptation, building performance and decarbonisation. We have previously called for consultation on a statutory maximum indoor air temperature for non-domestic buildings, recognising that thermal comfort is becoming a health, economic and societal issue rather than simply a facilities management concern.

It also reinforces a broader point we continue to make: building controls must be recognised as essential infrastructure within discussions around building performance, energy policy and climate resilience.

As temperatures are predicted to continue to rise as a result of global warming, operational performance must sit alongside energy efficiency in future building policy discussions. The industry has spent years discussing how to reduce emissions from buildings. That conversation remains vital. The next challenge is ensuring those buildings remain safe, comfortable and productive in a changing climate.

Smart building controls are no longer simply an energy efficiency measure. They are essential infrastructure for climate-resilient buildings, healthier indoor environments and better building performance.

If the UK is serious about preparing for a potentially hotter future, intelligent building operation must become part of the national adaptation strategy. The technology exists today. The challenge now is ensuring it is recognised, valued and deployed at the scale needed to support the buildings of tomorrow.

Will you lend your experience to support the next generation?

91���� has been developing and delivering industry accredited training for many years. Our courses provide the most current and comprehensive learning programme for Building Controls Engineers and are recognised as the industry standard. To support more engineers with their learning, 91���� is looking for a part-time Trainer, to work on a self-employed basis to deliver 91���� courses.

Initially the requirement is likely to be around one course per calendar month but this will fluctuate based on demand. Whilst this will primarily be online the ability to deliver in-person training at locations across the UK would be preferred.

The Trainer will be required to deliver 91���� BCM courses, predominantly online, these courses are: BCM00, BCM01, BCM02, BCM03, BCM04, BCM05, BCM06.

The closing date for applications is the 24th July. We encourage early applicants as 91���� reserves the right to close applications early.

For more details about the role (including job description, application details etc.) please click here.

The Building Safety Act is one of the most significant developments to affect the built environment in recent years. While much of the discussion understandably focuses on compliance and higher-risk buildings, the legislation also reflects something much broader: a fundamental shift in how competence, accountability and professional responsibility are viewed across the industry.

That was one of the reasons I recently chose to attend 91����'s Building Safety Act Awareness Training course. Like many people across our industry, I wanted to better understand how the legislation is shaping expectations around competence and professional responsibility.

The decision to attend the training was also driven by something that extends beyond legislation itself: the importance of continuing to learn throughout our professional careers.

Having worked within the building controls sector for many years, I wanted to strengthen my own understanding of the legislation and its wider implications. What I took away from the training was not simply a greater appreciation of the regulatory requirements. It reinforced the importance of continual learning and highlighted why every professional involved in the built environment needs to understand the changing landscape in which we operate.

Building Safety Act Training is about more than compliance

The Building Safety Act was introduced following the Grenfell Tower tragedy and represents a significant reform of building safety regulation in England. It established new responsibilities, introduced clearer accountability and created the Building Safety Regulator to oversee higher-risk buildings and help raise standards across the sector.

What struck me during the training was that the legislation is not solely about introducing new rules. It reflects a wider industry expectation that competence must be demonstrated, maintained and continually developed throughout a professional career.

For many years, technical competence has been recognised as important. The Building Safety Act reinforces the principle that competence cannot be assumed simply because someone has experience. Professionals must remain current, understand evolving responsibilities and be able to demonstrate that they possess the knowledge required to undertake their role effectively.

This is a message that extends far beyond those directly involved with higher-risk buildings.

Why Building Controls professionals need to understand the wider regulatory environment

Building controls professionals play a vital role in delivering safe, efficient and sustainable buildings, as our work does not exist in isolation.

Modern buildings are complex environments where building services, controls, fire safety, energy performance and occupant wellbeing are closely interconnected. Decisions made in one area can have significant implications elsewhere.

One of the most thought-provoking aspects of the training was the emphasis placed on understanding the wider building lifecycle and the responsibilities of different stakeholders. It furthered my beliefs that none of us work in isolation. The decisions we make as professionals often have consequences beyond our immediate area of expertise, which makes a broader understanding of the wider built environment increasingly valuable.

Building controls specialists may not always be directly accountable under specific Building Safety Act dutyholder roles. Nevertheless, understanding how those responsibilities interact helps professionals make better decisions, communicate more effectively with project teams and contribute to safer outcomes.

A broader understanding of the regulatory environment also enables professionals to engage more confidently with clients, consultants and building owners who are themselves adapting to new expectations.

Competence is a journey, not a destination

One of the most important lessons reinforced by the training is that learning should never stop.

It is easy to assume that professional development becomes less important as experience grows. My own personal experience suggests the opposite is true.

I have learned over the years that experience alone is not enough. The built environment is constantly evolving, and remaining curious and open to learning helps us ask better questions, challenge our own assumptions and adapt to change more effectively.

Professional development is not simply about gaining qualifications or attending training courses. It is about maintaining a mindset that allows us to keep improving, broaden our understanding and continue adding value throughout our careers.

The built environment is evolving at an unprecedented pace. New legislation, emerging technologies, changing standards and increasing expectations around sustainability, building performance and safety are continually reshaping the industry. Building controls sits at the intersection of many of these trends, from intelligent buildings and digitalisation through to energy efficiency, decarbonisation and building safety. Keeping pace with that change requires a commitment to continual learning.

The Building Safety Act is simply one example of a wider trend towards greater professional accountability and evidence-based competence.

Maintaining professional knowledge is therefore an ongoing commitment throughout a career, regardless of experience level. Continuous professional development helps ensure knowledge remains relevant, skills remain current and organisations can demonstrate a commitment to maintaining high standards.

Collaboration is central to better building outcomes

Another key takeaway from the training was the importance of collaboration.

The Building Safety Act encourages greater clarity around responsibilities, but it also highlights the need for effective communication between disciplines. No single profession is solely responsible for building safety.

Achieving safer, better-performing buildings requires everyone involved in their design, construction and operation to understand both their own responsibilities and how they connect with those of others.

Architects, engineers, contractors, building owners, facilities managers, building controls professionals and systems integrators  all contribute to the performance and safety of buildings throughout their lifecycle.

The most successful projects are often those where information is shared openly, responsibilities are understood and different disciplines work together towards common objectives.

For building controls professionals, understanding the challenges faced by colleagues across the wider built environment helps strengthen those collaborative relationships and ultimately contributes to better outcomes for building owners and occupants.

The role of Industry Bodies in raising standards

Professional bodies have an important role to play in supporting competence and promoting best practice.

At 91����, we have long recognised that skills development, training and professional standards are fundamental to the future of both our industry and the buildings we help deliver. Our commitment extends beyond technical excellence to supporting members as the wider regulatory environment evolves.

Training initiatives such as Building Safety Act Awareness Training provide an important foundation for understanding emerging requirements and industry expectations. They also create opportunities for professionals to engage with broader industry developments and consider how these may influence their own roles.

Importantly, learning should not stop at awareness level.

As the industry continues to develop its understanding of the legislation and associated competence requirements, there is clear value in creating opportunities for more advanced learning and professional development.

Maintaining momentum

The Building Safety Act has undoubtedly changed the conversation around competence and accountability.

More importantly, it has highlighted the need for continual learning throughout the built environment. Regardless of role, sector or experience level, professionals must be prepared to adapt, develop their knowledge and embrace evolving expectations.

My experience attending 91����'s Building Safety Act training reinforced the value of taking time to step back, broaden our understanding and continue learning. It is an investment that benefits not only individual professionals but the wider industry.

91���� remains committed to supporting members through training, education and professional development initiatives. We are already exploring opportunities for further Building Safety Act-related learning, including more advanced pathways that can help members deepen their understanding as the regulatory landscape continues to evolve.

Professional competence is not achieved through a single course. It is built through a commitment to lifelong learning, continuous improvement and a shared determination to raise standards across our industry.

Co-located with , the event will unite construction, design, real estate, engineering, fire safety, digital construction, sustainability, and HVAC professionals under one roof at the UK’s ultimate built environment event.

With 25,000+ attendees, 650+ exhibitors, 900+ speakers across 17 CPD-accredited stages and 40+ networking events, London Build is more than just an expo - it’s a Festival of Construction. Expect live music, entertainment, DJs, interactive workshops, an Architect’s Hub, a Government Hub, start-up showcases and thousands of opportunities to connect with the industry’s leading professionals.

Visitors can now register for their FREE ticket, providing two-day access to the latest innovations, products, technologies and insights shaping the future of construction and the built environment.

Register for free here:

CPD content across 17 stages  

London Build will host over 900 speakers across 17 CPD-accredited stages. This year's conference programme will explore the biggest trends, opportunities and challenges shaping the built environment, including Sustainability and Net Zero, AI and Digital Construction, Fire Safety, Modern Methods of Construction (MMC), Housing and Infrastructure, Diversity and Inclusion, Skills and Workforce Development, Architecture and Design Innovation, and much more.

The first 150+ thought leaders announced for London Build 2026 include:

●       Luke Hands, Director of Health, Safety, Environment & Quality - Ardmore Group‍ ‍

●       Ilka van Heerden, Head of Preconstruction - Structure Tone UK

●       Charlotte Sargeant, Head of Land and Partnerships, East Midlands - Keepmoat Homes

●       Neville Grunwald, Director Facades & Roofs - Wates Construction

●       Andrew J Taylor, Group Planning and Sustainability Director - Vistry Group

●       Diana Otieno, Head of Resident Engagement and Compliance (Fire Safety) - Peabody

●       Nicola Forest, Head of Sustainability - Structure Tone London

●       Lucy Thomas, Marketing Director - Landsec

They are joined by senior representatives from leading organisations including Bovis, Purcell, BAM, Sisk, Places for People, Notting Hill Genesis, Graham, Bellway, London Councils, Brent Council, RIBA, Pascall+Watson, and many more across the UK built environment sector. Take a look at the current line-up .

A major meeting place for the built environment

The show is expected to welcome over 25,000 visitors from contractors and subcontractors, developers and housebuilders, architects and designers, structural and civil engineers, sustainability and technology teams, consultancies, local authorities and housing associations. Attendee job titles include CEOs, Managing Directors, Construction Managers, Design Managers, Digital Construction Managers, Directors of Sustainability and other key decision-makers from across the industry.

Here is a snapshot of the types of companies you'll meet from across the built environment, including: Balfour Beatty, Mace, AECOM, Multiplex, Morgan Sindall, Bouygues, BDP, Willmott Dixon, Skanska, Bellway, Wates, BAM UK, McLaren, Lendlease, Laing O’Rourke, Costain, Arup, Zaha Hadid Architects, Taylor Wimpey, TfL, Tilbury Douglas, as well as many other top companies who are all looking for the latest products and services.

The 2026 event will feature more than 650 exhibitors, bringing together leading manufacturers, suppliers, technology providers and innovators from across the construction and built environment sectors. Confirmed exhibitors include: Quelfire, Ryno, Siemens, Simpro, ASFP, Bosch, JamesHardie, Polypipe, Howdens, Rockwool, ELTA, Smeg, Armatherm and Baldwin Boxall.

Secure your free ticket today  

Whether you're looking to discover new products, connect with industry leaders or stay ahead of the latest trends, your FREE ticket gives you access to:

●       25,000+ attendees from across the UK’s built environment sector

●       650+ exhibitors showcasing the latest products, technologies and services

●       900+ speakers across 17 CPD-accredited conference stages

●       Architect’s Hub featuring upcoming projects and innovations

●       Government Hub showcasing major developments and opportunities

●       Exclusive networking events hosted with industry bodies and partners

●       The UK’s largest networking events for Women in Construction and Diversity in Construction

●       Live entertainment, DJs and festival experiences

●       Interactive workshops, live demos and start-up showcases

Register for free today:

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The new report highlights a wave of fresh funding commitments, regulatory reforms and performance standards designed to improve building efficiency and reduce carbon emissions. However, while significant support is being directed towards domestic retrofit and wider decarbonisation initiatives, 91���� is calling for greater clarity around the future policy framework for non-domestic buildings.

Across the policy developments examined in the report, a consistent theme emerges -greater emphasis on building performance, operational outcomes, electrification and data-driven decision making.

New regulations in Wales, the introduction of the UK Net Zero Carbon Buildings Standard and the forthcoming Future Buildings Standard all strengthen the role of intelligent building controls in delivering compliant, high-performing buildings. The report also highlights a growing shift towards performance-led funding models, creating opportunities for technologies capable of demonstrating measurable energy savings and ROI.

However, despite the positive direction of travel, 91���� says a critical policy gap remains for non-domestic buildings.

While the Warm Homes Plan sets out a long-term strategy for domestic decarbonisation backed by £15bn investment, no equivalent framework has yet been established for non-domestic buildings, despite their substantial contribution to UK energy use and emissions.

The association is urging policymakers to ensure commercial and public buildings are fully integrated into future decarbonisation strategies and funding mechanisms.

Jen Vickers, President of the Building Controls Industry Association, said:"The scale of investment and policy activity currently being directed towards decarbonisation demonstrates just how important buildings have become in the UK's net zero strategy.

"Across funding, regulation and performance standards, we are seeing a clear shift towards smarter, more efficient buildings that can demonstrate measurable outcomes. This creates significant opportunities for building controls, which play a critical role in reducing energy consumption, improving operational performance and supporting carbon reduction.

"If the UK is to achieve its decarbonisation ambitions, future policy frameworks must fully recognise the role of non-domestic buildings and the technologies, such as building controls, that can help unlock substantial energy and carbon savings."

The report highlights a strong growth outlook for the building controls sector in 2026, with regulation, rising energy costs and evolving funding models all expected to drive increased adoption. As policymakers place greater emphasis on building performance and operational outcomes, controls are becoming embedded as a core requirement.

At the same time, organisations are increasingly seeking technologies that can deliver measurable savings and a clear return on investment, positioning building controls as a key enabler of both commercial performance and net zero delivery. Rather than a specialist solution, controls are rapidly becoming essential infrastructure within the built environment.

View Policy Pulse here

The report shows total industry revenues for Products, Installed Systems and Service & Maintenance supplied into the UK market increased to £234.8 million during Q1 2026, representing a 13.2% rise compared with the previous quarter.

The uplift marks one of the strongest quarterly performances seen in recent periods, despite wider construction output across key sectors remaining relatively subdued.

Strong growth across installed systems

The strongest growth during the quarter came from Installed Systems and Installation Value Added activity, highlighting continued demand for engineering expertise, commissioning and integrated building controls solutions.

Installation Value Added increased by 18.3% during Q1 to £130.7 million, with particularly strong growth among Systems Installers and Others, where value added rose by 21.1% compared with the previous quarter.

The proportion of value added within installed systems also increased slightly to 78.0%, reinforcing the growing importance of specialist knowledge and technical expertise in delivering high-performing buildings.

Installed Systems revenues overall increased by 16.9% to £167.7 million during the quarter. System Installer activity rose by 18.2%, while distributor-sourced installations increased by 22.4%.

Product demand shows improving momentum

Product revenues also recorded strong growth during Q1, increasing by 14.8% to £44.7 million.

OEM sales performed particularly well, rising by 28.4%, while sales to System Installers increased by 12.3%. Distributor and Other channels also saw growth of 16.3% during the quarter.

Although the rolling-year Product total remains marginally lower than the previous year at £161.6 million, the latest quarterly figures suggest improving momentum across several routes to market.

Service and maintenance remains resilient

Service and Maintenance once again continued to provide a stable and resilient revenue stream for the sector.

Revenues increased by 2.3% during Q1 to £59.4 million, while the rolling-year figure rose by 12.3% to £230.5 million.

System Installers continued to account for the majority of Service and Maintenance activity, representing 84.1% of the market during the quarter.

The continued growth in service revenues reflects the increasing focus on long-term building performance, system optimisation and operational efficiency across commercial estates.

Positive outlook for the year ahead

Overall, the Q1 2026 data suggests the UK Controls and BEMS market has entered the year in a positive position, with stronger installation activity, resilient Service and Maintenance revenues and improving Product demand all contributing to a strong quarter.

Jen Vickers, President of the Building Controls Industry Association, said:

“The latest figures demonstrate a very encouraging start to 2026 for the building controls sector. Despite wider construction activity remaining relatively subdued, the controls and BEMS market has delivered strong quarterly growth, particularly across installed systems and engineering activity.

What this highlights is the growing recognition of the important role building controls play in improving energy efficiency, reducing operational costs and supporting smarter, more sustainable buildings.

The continued resilience in Service and Maintenance activity is also significant, as building owners and operators increasingly focus on optimising existing assets and improving long-term building performance. As the industry continues to evolve, building controls will remain central to helping the built environment meet both operational and net zero objectives.”

The 91���� publishes its Market Information Report quarterly, providing detailed data on trends, revenues and growth opportunities across the BEMS sector.

The 91���� Awards 2026, AGM and Members’ Conference did exactly that. Across one day and evening, we saw the strength, ambition and expertise that exist across the BEMS sector. We heard important discussions about building performance, valuation, skills and visibility, and celebrated the people and organisations raising standards across the building controls industry.

As 91���� marks its 35th anniversary, this felt particularly significant. It was not only an opportunity to reflect on how far the industry has come, but also to recognise the momentum we are building and the responsibility we share in shaping what comes next.

A day of insight, discussion and industry value

The 91���� AGM and Members’ Conference explored many of the themes now central to our sector: building performance, commercial value, skills, apprenticeships, visibility and collaboration.

At the heart of these was a common question: how do we ensure building controls are properly understood, valued and applied?

Building controls and commercial value

The day started with a keynote from Nick Taylor of Building Atlas. His presentation, Green Premium or Green Blind Spot? BEMS, BACS and the Missing Link in Property Valuation, explored an issue that deserves far greater attention.

Despite the clear contribution building controls make to energy performance, efficiency and long-term asset value, they are still too often overlooked in property valuation.

One of his most powerful observations was that “technical value and priced value are not the same.” It was a simple but important reminder that while our industry clearly understands the operational value of controls, that value is not always translating into financial decision-making at asset level.

Nick also challenged the industry to think differently about the role of controls in the future. Rather than being viewed purely as a building services package, controls are increasingly becoming part of the financial infrastructure of buildings because they directly influence income, risk, compliance confidence, operational resilience and future investment decisions.

His point that “the controls industry does not have a relevance problem, it has a translation problem” resonated strongly with many in the room. Too often, detailed operational data and measurable outcomes are lost as information moves through the chain from FM teams and energy reporting through to investment committees, lenders and valuers.

Importantly, the session was not simply about identifying the challenge. Nick also highlighted three areas he believes could change the game for the sector:

• making performance data portable and accessible

• packaging measured outcomes over time

• getting controls upstream of capital planning and investment decisions

Invisible technology, visible impact

This theme continued in the panel discussion Invisible Technology, Visible Failures: Why We Keep Undervaluing Building Controls, chaired by Oli Barker, 91���� Management Committee Member and of Llloret.

The discussion reflected a challenge many of us recognise: building controls are often only noticed when something goes wrong, despite underpinning comfort, efficiency, operational performance and increasingly, net zero strategies.

Panellists discussed how value engineering, late-stage cost cutting and limited operational understanding can undermine building performance long after handover. There was also strong agreement that controls expertise must be brought into projects earlier, rather than being treated as an afterthought once key design decisions have already been made.

Another important point raised throughout the session was the need for simplicity, usability and ongoing optimisation. Even well-designed systems can fail to deliver value if operators do not have the time, training or support to manage them effectively after handover.

What came through strongly was that our industry must continue to explain not just what BEMS do, but what they enable: better-performing buildings, reduced energy waste, improved comfort and more informed decision-making.

Developing the next generation

For me, one of the most encouraging parts of the day was the focus on people.

The Young Engineers Interactive Roundtables brought fresh perspectives into the conversation and reinforced the importance of listening to those who will help shape the future of BEMS.

One message came through clearly: many talented young people simply do not know building controls exists as a career path until they are exposed to it directly.

Several young engineers spoke openly about discovering the sector almost by accident through careers fairs, placements, T-Level opportunities or conversations with employers. That underlines why visibility matters so much.

The session also demonstrated the growing value of the 91���� Young Engineers Network, which continues to create opportunities for networking, mentoring, technical development and peer support across the industry. The introduction of the new Ambassador Scheme was particularly well received, helping create visible role models within member companies and encouraging greater engagement from future talent.

The afternoon panel on The Talent Challenge – Skills, Apprenticeships and Upcoming Changes explored many of these issues further.

The discussion highlighted how quickly the sector is evolving, particularly as controls increasingly integrate with AI, APIs, renewable technologies, smart buildings and data-led optimisation. That means the skills required across the industry are evolving too.

Panellists discussed the growing importance of apprenticeships, T-Levels, industry placements and employer engagement in creating meaningful routes into the sector. There was strong recognition that education is moving in the right direction, but industry participation remains essential.

One particularly important message from the panel was that employers should focus as much on attitude, curiosity and willingness to learn as technical experience. Skills can be developed, but confidence, enthusiasm and engagement are equally important when building long-term talent pipelines.

As President, I remain committed to making building controls a career of choice. That means communicating the opportunity clearly, supporting employers practically and showing future talent that this is a sector with purpose, progression and long-term relevance.

91���� Awards 2026: recognising excellence across the sector

The evening’s 91���� Awards 2026 provided a fitting and well-deserved celebration of the people, projects and organisations driving our industry forward.

The awards recognise the individuals, teams and businesses delivering excellence across the sector. Congratulations to this year’s winners, who truly reflect the depth, innovation and commitment across the 91���� community:

• Building Controls and BEMS Company of the Year – Linear Control Systems

• Engineer of the Year – Jonathan Woolford, Schneider Electric

• Young Engineer of the Year – George Stephens-Clark, InTandem Systems

• Apprentice of the Year – William Sebatch, Schneider Electric

• Energy Innovation and Impact Award – BMSI for the E60+ Energy Roll Out

• Best Service and Maintenance Provider – Kendra Energy Solutions

• Technical Innovation of the Year – Products – Cosysense for AI Building Automation

• Technical Innovation of the Year – Projects – Lockheed Martin for Connected, Resilient, Intelligent: A New Era of Facilities

• Sustainability Strategy Champion – The Francis Crick Institute

• Contribution to Training Award – One Sightsolutions

• Outstanding Contribution of the Year – Terry Sharp

Together, these winners demonstrate what best practice looks like in action, from innovation and project delivery through to training, service and long-term contribution to the industry.

The atmosphere on the night was a real reminder of the pride people take in their work and in the industry as a whole. Host Stephen Mulhern brought energy and humour to the evening, helping create a celebration that felt both professional and genuinely enjoyable.

Celebrating the 91���� community

Events like this do not happen without the support of the wider 91���� community, and the Members’ Conference gets bigger each year. I would like to thank our members, sponsors, speakers, panellists, manufacturers, attendees, finalists and winners for making the day and evening such a success. I would also like to thank the 91���� team for organising the Members’ Conference and Keystone, for once again organising another absolutely fantastic awards event in the evening.

The manufacturers’ area also played an important role, giving delegates the opportunity to explore new products, exchange ideas and discuss current market developments. These conversations matter because innovation in building controls is often driven by collaboration between manufacturers, integrators, consultants, contractors and end users.

This is one of 91����’s strengths. We bring together different parts of the industry so that insight, experience and ambition can be shared. At a time when buildings are under increasing pressure to perform better, that collaboration is essential.

Looking ahead with confidence

The 91���� 35th anniversary gives us a valuable moment to reflect on how far the Association and the sector have come. Building controls have evolved from being seen by many as a specialist technical package to being recognised as central to how buildings operate, adapt and deliver value. That progress is significant, but there is still more to do.

We need greater visibility, stronger recognition of our role in building performance, and a continued focus on developing skills and supporting members. The voice of the building controls industry must be heard in wider conversations about energy, carbon, safety and the future of the built environment.

The 91���� Awards 2026, AGM and Members’ Conference showed that we have the knowledge, commitment and community to meet that challenge.

As we look ahead, my message is simple: let us continue to champion excellence, develop talent, support innovation and demonstrate the value of building controls in delivering better buildings for everyone.

We want to make sure our annual Members’ Conference delivers what our members want and so we appreciate any feedback from attendees to help us continually improve the event.

Widely regarded as a benchmark for excellence, the 91���� Awards once again brought the industry together to recognise the outstanding individuals, teams and organisations driving progress across BEMS, smart buildings and building performance. This year’s winners represent a truly impressive showcase of talent, innovation and dedication across the sector.

From cutting-edge technical innovation and exceptional project delivery to service excellence and skills development, the 2026 winners highlight the strength and vibrancy of the industry. Their achievements underline the vital role building controls play in addressing some of the most pressing challenges facing the built environment, including energy efficiency, carbon reduction and operational resilience.

2026 91���� Award winners

• Building Controls and BEMS Company of the Year – Linear Control Systems

• Engineer of the Year – Jonathan Woolford, Schneider Electric

• Young Engineer of the Year – George Stephens-Clark, InTandem Systems

• Apprentice of the Year – William Sebatch, Schneider Electric

• Energy Innovation and Impact Award – BMSI, E60+ Energy Roll Out

• Best Service and Maintenance Provider – Kendra Energy Solutions

• Technical Innovation of the Year – Products – Cosysense, AI Building Automation

• Technical Innovation of the Year – Projects – Lockheed Martin, Connected, Resilient, Intelligent: A New Era of Facilities

• Sustainability Strategy Champion – The Francis Crick Institute

• Contribution to Training Award – One Sightsolutions

• Outstanding Contribution of the Year – Terry Sharp

The glittering awards ceremony, was held yesterday evening at The Eastside Rooms in Birmingham and hosted by TV presenter and magician Stephen Mulhern, the Awards brought together more than 600 industry leaders, innovators and emerging talent to celebrate the achievements shaping the future of building performance. The 2026 Awards held particular significance as the Association marks its 35th anniversary, reflecting both the progress made and the growing importance of building controls in delivering high-performing, energy-efficient and safe buildings.

Jen Vickers, President of the 91����, said: “The 91���� Awards continue to showcase the very best of our sector, and this year’s winners are a clear demonstration of the innovation, expertise and commitment that exists across the industry. From technical excellence and project delivery to skills development and sustainability, these achievements highlight the vital role building controls play in delivering high-performing, energy-efficient buildings.

“Congratulations to all of our winners; your work is helping to drive progress across the sector and shape the future of the built environment.”

Commenting on the Outstanding Contribution Award, Jen said: “Terry’s contribution to the building controls industry has been both significant and long-standing. Through his dedication, leadership and commitment to advancing our sector, he has played an important role in shaping the industry we see today. The award is fitting recognition and on behalf of the 91���� I would like to thank Terry for his continued support and contribution.”

Alongside technical achievement, the prestigious 91���� Awards continue to highlight the importance of people within the sector. Categories recognising engineers, apprentices and emerging talent underline the industry’s focus on strengthening the skills pipeline and ensuring building controls remains a future-facing and attractive career path.

William Sebatch won this year’s Young Engineer of the Year. Reacting to his win, he said: “It’s great to be recognised by professionals within the industry and it’s a fantastic feeling to have won this award.” William, who is a Digital Power Technical Apprentice at Schneider Electric, added: “I’m very thankful to have been chosen for the award. I’d also like to congratulate the other finalists in this category, I know it must have been a tough decision for the judges as they are all worthy winners.”

As buildings become increasingly complex and expectations around performance continue to rise, the need for skilled professionals capable of designing, implementing and optimising building systems has never been greater.

It is something I have spoken about before, and it will remain a central focus throughout my presidency. While we have made genuine progress in strengthening training pathways and building a pipeline of new talent, we are still facing a fundamental issue.

Quite simply, not enough people know who we are, what we do, or why it matters.

From my own experience speaking to students, employers and those outside the sector, I believe there is another layer to that challenge. It is not just about visibility - it is about how we explain ourselves when we are seen.

More Than Awareness: A Communication Challenge

Over the past few years, we have invested significant effort into creating structured routes into the industry. Apprenticeships are growing, T-Level placements are gaining traction, and more employers are engaging with training initiatives than ever before. That is real progress, and it is something we should be proud of.

However, when I speak to students, career changers or even professionals already working in the built environment, the same pattern continues to emerge – many have never heard of building controls, and those who have often only have a partial understanding of what it involves.

Yet, when we take the time to properly explain the role, the response is almost always positive. I have seen this first-hand on multiple occasions. People quickly see the relevance, the variety and the long-term potential. They begin to understand that this is not a narrow technical specialism, but a career that sits at the centre of how modern buildings perform.

That shift in perception is powerful. It tells us that the issue is not a lack of opportunity or appeal; it is how we are communicating what we do.

Under my presidency, improving that communication is a key objective.

Speaking in a Way People Understand

As an industry, we are naturally comfortable talking in technical terms. We talk about systems, integration, control strategies and optimisation. These are all essential parts of our work, and they matter – but they are not always the most effective way to engage someone who is new to the sector.

If someone has never encountered BEMS before, those terms can feel abstract and, at times, inaccessible. It is something I have become increasingly aware of in conversations outside of our immediate industry.

We need to shift the way we frame the conversation.

Instead of starting with the technology, we should start with the impact. We should be explaining that building controls:

• Reduce energy consumption and carbon emissions in real, measurable ways.

• Improve comfort, wellbeing and productivity for building occupants.

• Enable buildings to operate more intelligently through data and insight.

• Support organisations in meeting sustainability and compliance targets.

These are outcomes that people can relate to. They provide a sense of purpose and a clear connection to wider societal goals.

For many people, particularly younger generations, that sense of purpose is a major driver in career choice. That is something I feel we should be leaning into much more.

Positioning BEMS as a Future-Facing Career

One of the things I am particularly passionate about during my presidency is ensuring that building controls is recognised for what it truly is: a future-facing career.

This is not an industry rooted in legacy thinking. It is an industry that is evolving rapidly, shaped by digitalisation, data, sustainability and changing expectations around building performance.

When we talk about BEMS in the right way, we are talking about:

• Sustainability careers, where individuals can directly contribute to reducing emissions and improving energy efficiency.

• Technology careers, involving software, integration, smart systems and digital infrastructure.

• Data-driven roles, where analysis and insight are central to optimising performance.

• Engineering pathways, grounded in practical application and problem-solving.

This breadth is one of our greatest strengths, but too often, it is not clearly articulated.

We need to move away from presenting building controls as a niche discipline, and instead position it as a dynamic, multi-disciplinary career with real progression opportunities.

It is, after all, one of the most compelling career propositions in the built environment today.

The Role of Industry in Shaping Perception

Changing this narrative is not something that can be done by one organisation alone. It requires a collective effort across the industry.

Employers, educators and industry bodies all have a role to play in ensuring that the message is consistent, accessible and engaging.

That includes:

• How we describe roles in job adverts.

• How we engage with schools, colleges and universities.

• How we present the industry at careers events and open days.

• How we use real-world examples to bring the roles to life.

We also need to continue building on the progress already made through apprenticeships and T-Level placements, ensuring that once people enter the industry, they can clearly see where their career can take them.

Attracting talent is only part of the challenge; retaining and developing that talent is equally important.

From Awareness to Advocacy

Encouragingly, when people do enter the sector, they often become its strongest advocates.

I see this particularly through initiatives like the Young Engineers Network, where early-career professionals are not only developing their skills but actively championing the industry to others.

They see first-hand the impact of their work. They understand the value of what they do and they recognise the opportunities available to them.

Our challenge is to reach that point sooner.

If we can improve how we explain building controls, we can move from a position of low awareness to one of genuine interest. Over time, that interest can translate into a stronger, more sustainable pipeline of talent.

Looking Ahead

As an Association, raising awareness of building controls as a career of choice remains a strategic priority for 91����, as we understand how important this is to our members. Awareness alone, however, is not enough.

We need to ensure that when we do have the opportunity to engage with potential future talent, we are telling the right story.

Our communication needs to reflect the true breadth of the industry, connect with people’s interests and ambitions and demonstrate the real-world impact of what we do. It’s about being able to communicate the value of our industry and making sure others can see that value just as clearly.

Building controls is not just about systems. It is about performance, sustainability and net zero, people and the future of our built environment with increasingly smart buildings - and that is a message worth sharing.

A central focus of the discussion was one of the industry’s most significant barriers to growth: people. The ongoing shortage of BEMS professionals continues to make it challenging to attract individuals with the right skills. Employers need confidence that new recruits bring not only the required knowledge but also strong technical capability across disciplines such as design, installation, commissioning, software, and graphics.

Sector skills cards remain a primary means of verifying competency, placing increased importance on robust competency assessments and revalidation. Members discussed the value of competency from the individual’s perspective, noting that employers are often the ones who fund the necessary training, absorb the cost of off‑the‑job learning, and ultimately pay for a card that the individual retains if they move on. While this investment is recognised as part of normal workforce development, members also highlighted that company culture, working environment, and employee benefits are essential for retaining staff in a market where demand far outstrips supply.

The group also emphasised the need for competency processes that support—not disadvantage—older workers. Ensuring that experienced professionals are not driven into early retirement because competency requirements are unnecessarily difficult is crucial for preserving industry knowledge and capability.

The Network went on to discuss the Building Safety Act, where competency is a core element. Knowledge of the Act and its relevance to BEMS was first explored at the October CEO meeting, after which the 91���� introduced a series of free introductory BSA training sessions for members. This support will be expanded over the summer with BEMS‑specific workshops, dedicated guidance for members, and a Q&A event currently in development.

The third major area of discussion focused on the BEMS Delivery Framework, which is currently under development. Members debated the practicalities of the Framework and agreed on its purpose and value in helping to bridge the knowledge gap between specification, delivery, and system outcomes versus client objectives.

The CEO Network meets twice a year, the next will take place in central Manchester on 16th September from 11.00am – 14.00pm. The Network is exclusively for CEO’s, MD’s and C-Suite executives.  You can .

The transitional period for projects already underway is due to end on 6 April 2026, after which all applicable developments will be required to fully comply. This moves the industry from a period of adjustment into full implementation.

While much of the focus has been on fire and structural safety, the implications for the building controls sector are significant. For BEMS, BMS and BACS specialists, the Act introduces new expectations around competence, data, coordination and compliance.

At the Building Controls Industry Association, this shift is not only recognised, but is informing a co-ordinated industry response.

 Competence moves centre stage

The 91���� has been tasked with being the responsible organisation for the building controls and automation sub-sector, including developing a sector-specific competence framework.

This comes at a time when competence must be clearly defined, evidenced and maintained.

“There is now a significant focus on competency and, importantly, the demonstration of that competency. It’s no longer enough to assume capability - it has to be evidenced at multiple stages of a project,” says Andy Thorn, 91���� Management Committee Member who brings more than 30 years’ experience in the BEMS industry.

Following industry consultation, 91���� is progressing work on how competency should be demonstrated and revalidated in practice, aligning building controls with other recognised professions. As the transitional period ends, this requirement will become increasingly visible across regulated projects.

 A changing regulatory landscape

The impact of the Act is most evident through the Higher Risk Building (HRB) regime and gateway approvals.

“The Higher Risk Building regime will impact members working on larger projects,” Andy notes. “It brings additional layers of oversight that our sector needs to understand and plan for.”

The introduction of duty holder roles also brings new responsibilities, particularly around design coordination and accountability. “The Principal Designer role carries a lot of responsibility on controls-dominant projects, which could sit with one of our members, and the implications are significant.”

As projects move beyond transitional arrangements, clarity around roles, responsibilities and interfaces will be essential.

Building controls and life safety

The Act is a direct response to the Grenfell Tower fire and is fundamentally focused on life safety. While building controls may not always be the primary safety system, their role is growing as systems become more integrated.

“Our industry isn’t as directly impacted as fire or lifts, but Building Management Systems (BMS) can be central to many integrated systems such as smoke control,” Andy says. “Members need to be aware of the additional compliance and coordination required.”

This places building controls more firmly within the wider safety ecosystem, with greater expectations around system performance and integration.

 Data, evidence and the golden thread

The requirement for a golden thread of information is one of the most significant changes introduced by the Act and, for building controls, this is a key strength.

As Andy explains; “Data will be critical. The BMS will have information logged from inception, and members may be involved in providing that data during sign-off to support compliance with the regulator.”

As full compliance approaches, this data will play a central role in evidencing performance, testing and ongoing compliance, reinforcing the value of BEMS across the building lifecycle.

 Gateways, timelines and uncertainty

Gateway approvals, aligned broadly with Royal Institute of British Architects (RIBA) stages, are already impacting project delivery, but there remains uncertainty around how they operate in practice.

“There is still a lot of confusion around how the gateway stages work in practice”, reflects Andy. “The current JCT contract doesn’t align with Gateway 2, which can take up to 18 weeks to sign off. Gateway 3 also raises questions around inspections and testing. Greater clarity is needed on what inspections will involve in practice, particularly given that buildings cannot be occupied or pre-let before final sign-off, with potential delays and additional costs becoming a growing concern.”

The role of the Building Safety Regulator continues to evolve, and as transitional arrangements fall away, consistency in interpretation will become increasingly important.

Time, cost and the road ahead

The Act introduces additional time, cost and process requirements across projects.

“Time and cost will increase, that’s inevitable. And if it leads to safer buildings, that’s the right outcome,” Andy says, “But more clarity is needed to avoid inconsistencies, particularly during tender stages.”

For building controls companies, this means adapting both technically and commercially, with a sharper focus on defined scope, compliance and coordination.

Supporting members through change

91���� has been delivering targeted workshops for the building controls sector, with strong engagement from members seeking clarity on how the Act applies in practice.

Led by Building Safety Act expert John Joyce, these sessions focus on real-world application, covering:

• Duty holder roles and responsibilities

• Gateway processes and submissions

• Golden thread requirements

• Competency expectations

“Our sector needs to be able to demonstrate competence at every stage of the process,” Andy says. “These workshops are an important step in helping members understand what that looks like in practice.”

With the end of the transitional period approaching, the focus is now firmly on readiness.

Whether you are already involved in Higher Risk Buildings or preparing for future projects, 91���� will be delivering future workshops to help members build confidence, strengthen understanding and ensure your organisation is aligned with the new regulatory landscape.

Taking place on Thursday 7th May 2026 at The Eastside Rooms in Birmingham, this year’s Awards hold particular significance as the Association marks its 35th anniversary. The event provides an opportunity not only to celebrate achievement, but to reflect on the growing role of building controls in delivering high-performing, energy-efficient and safe buildings.

Recognising excellence across the industry

The 91���� Awards are widely recognised as a benchmark for quality, innovation and achievement within the building controls sector. Each year, they shine a spotlight on the individuals, teams and organisations driving progress across building energy management systems (BEMS), smart buildings and building performance.

This year’s finalists represent the very best of the industry. From technical innovation and project delivery to service excellence and emerging talent, the shortlist reflects both the depth of expertise within the sector and its growing importance in delivering safer, more efficient and more sustainable buildings.

Entries this year demonstrate the central role building controls play in addressing key built environment challenges, from improving energy performance and reducing carbon, to enhancing occupant wellbeing and operational resilience. The introduction of the new Sustainability Strategy Champion category further reinforces this direction, recognising organisations that are embedding sustainability at the heart of their approach and delivering measurable outcomes.

Recognising people as well as performance

Alongside technical achievement, the Awards continue to highlight the importance of people within the sector. Categories recognising engineers, apprentices and emerging talent reflect a broader industry priority: strengthening the skills pipeline and ensuring building controls remains an attractive, future-facing career.

As buildings become more complex and expectations around performance continue to rise, the need for skilled professionals who can design, implement and optimise building systems has never been greater.

A night to connect and celebrate

Beyond the awards themselves, the evening provides a valuable opportunity for the industry to come together. In a sector defined by collaboration, integration and shared expertise, the 91���� Awards offer a moment to step back from day-to-day delivery and celebrate collective success.

Attendees can expect an evening that combines recognition with networking, bringing together contractors, manufacturers, consultants, integrators and end users from across the building controls ecosystem.

Final call to secure your place

With the Awards now just four weeks away, members are encouraged to secure their place. With limited tables remaining, those looking to host clients, recognise teams or raise their profile within the industry should book now at /book-a-table-2026.

Limited sponsorship opportunities remaining

A small number of sponsorship opportunities also remain available. Sponsoring offers a high-profile way to demonstrate commitment to the sector, align with industry excellence and increase visibility among key decision-makers and influencers.

With the Awards attracting wide industry attention, sponsorship provides both immediate exposure and longer-term reputational value.

Find out more here: /sponsorship-2026

Celebrating 35 years and looking ahead

As 91���� marks its 35th anniversary, this year’s Awards carry added significance.

Commenting on the 2026 Awards, 91���� President Jen Vickers said: “The 91���� Awards continue to showcase the very best of our sector. This year’s finalists demonstrate not only technical excellence and innovation, but also a strong commitment to professionalism, sustainability and developing the next generation of talent. As we approach the Awards, it is an opportunity to recognise the progress being made across building controls and the vital role our sector plays in delivering high-performing buildings. I would encourage the industry to come together to celebrate that achievement.”

Over the past three decades, the sector has evolved from a specialist discipline to a central component of how modern buildings operate, perform and respond to changing demands. Today, building controls sit at the intersection of engineering, digital technology and sustainability. The work recognised at the 91���� Awards reflects both how far the industry has come and the direction of travel it continues to take to support safer, smarter and more efficient buildings.

With one month to go, the countdown is firmly underway.

To view the full list of finalists, book your table or explore remaining sponsorship opportunities, please visit /bcia-awards-2026

champions and supports the lifesaving work of the UK’s 21 air ambulance charities, which provide advanced pre-hospital care to patients experiencing life-threatening injury or illness.

The partnership officially began on 1st March 2026, when 91����’s new President, Jen Vickers commenced her presidency. The association’s Annual Awards on 7th May 2026 will be the first major fundraising activity for the partnership, with members encouraged to support AAUK through a variety of initiatives at the awards and throughout the two-year term.

Air ambulance charities are funded almost entirely by donations, with each mission costing on average £4,165*. This partnership will help ensure air ambulance crews can continue delivering rapid, lifesaving care across the UK.

Jen Vickers, 91���� President, said: “We’re proud to support Air Ambulances UK as our charity partner for the next two years. Their lifesaving work across the UK aligns closely with our values, and we look forward to engaging our members in fundraising activities that make a real difference for air ambulance crews and the patients they serve.”

Mark Heaven, Head of Corporate Fundraising at Air Ambulances UK, said: “Air ambulance charities are ready to respond 24/7, but they rely on support from partners like 91���� to keep their critical care teams flying. We’re thrilled to be chosen as 91����’s charity for the next two years and look forward to working with their members to raise vital funds that will directly help save lives across the UK.”

91���� members will have the opportunity to take part in fundraising and awareness-raising activities throughout the two years, helping to highlight the crucial role air ambulance charities play in the UK’s emergency response system.

*Costs vary depending on location, operational models, and patient needs.

 You can show your support via our donations page 

Taking on this role at a time when our sector faces both significant challenges and genuine opportunities is both a privilege and a responsibility.

Today, the role of building controls sits firmly at the centre of how modern buildings perform. As expectations around safety, sustainability and building performance continue to rise, building energy management systems (BEMS) are fundamental to how buildings operate, adapt and deliver value throughout their lifecycle.

Over the next two years, my focus is clear: raising awareness of our industry and making it a career of choice; retaining existing talent by ensuring we have the right training, career and development pathways in place; and ensuring 91���� membership delivers real, tangible value and visibility to all our members.

Tackling the Skills Shortage

The skills shortage is not a new conversation, but it remains one of the biggest barriers to the ongoing sustainability and growth of the industry. This leads to heightened competition for experienced engineers. If we want to strengthen the future of building controls, we need to attract and train the next generation of engineers.

For me, that means making our industry more visible and more attractive - whether to young people starting their careers, individuals looking to retrain, or those returning to work. Building controls offers highly skilled, future-facing careers focused on sustainability and innovation. Our challenge is increasing awareness of opportunities.

Apprenticeships: Building the Pipeline

The BEMS Controls Engineer Apprenticeship programme was a major milestone for our industry. Seeing the 50th apprentice recently complete the programme is something we should all be proud of.

With around 280 apprentices currently on programme, the pipeline is strengthening and that represents genuine progress. Thanks go to Group Horizon, Verge and the Employers Working Group for their ongoing dedication and commitment.

However, apprenticeships are only part of the picture. We need to attract people to these apprenticeship opportunities and create clear progression routes beyond that entry point. One area I would particularly like to see progress during my presidency is the development of a degree pathway for building controls as part of an established Building Services Engineering degree, to ensure those working within the sector can develop professionally. 

T-Levels: Opening Doors Earlier

One way of attracting young people into the industry is through T-Level work placements.

When we speak to students about building controls, the reality is that most have never heard of it. They may understand mechanical and electrical engineering at a high level, but they are often unaware of the specialist systems that sit behind how buildings operate.

For many young people, once the role of building controls is explained, it quickly becomes an attractive career prospect. The sector combines engineering with digital skills such as programming, data analysis and smart technologies, while also playing a direct role in improving energy efficiency and supporting the transition to more sustainable buildings. For students who want to work with technology while making a tangible environmental impact, building controls offers a compelling career path.

I’ve seen first-hand how effective T-Levels can be when young people are given the chance to experience the industry properly. When given the opportunity for a work placement, the response is overwhelmingly positive. The appetite is there, but awareness is not.

Work placements play a crucial role as they allow young people to experience the industry while giving employers the opportunity to engage with the next generation of talent.

As an Association, we will continue supporting employers in taking on T-Level students, reducing perceived barriers and sharing the mutual benefits. It is about supporting education and attracting young talent who will be the future of our industry.

Competency and the Building Safety Act Landscape

Following the Building Safety Act, the 91���� has been tasked with being the responsible organisation for the Building Controls and Automation sub-sector and is tasked with developing a sector-specific competence framework.   

Over a few months, we have undertaken industry consultation around the revalidation of competency. This work is now progressing through a dedicated working group exploring how this framework should work in practice. Aligning with other professional careers where competency is clearly recognised and validated is the right step for our sector, helping to demonstrate the expertise, competence and professionalism that exists across the building controls community.

Our sector must be able to demonstrate initial and ongoing professional competence. Strengthening competency frameworks helps protect the reputation of our industry, builds trust with clients and ensures we remain aligned with the wider regulatory direction of travel.

Making Building Controls Visible

The sector needs visibility to be able to attract the talent and recognition it deserves.

Part of 91����’s role must be to raise that awareness and not only within the industry but also more broadly. I would love to see building controls become something the “person on the street” recognises. Greater visibility matters not only for public understanding but also for the people who influence policy and for those considering future career options.

Longer term, that also means positioning 91���� as the authoritative voice when policy conversations take place. When building performance, energy strategy or regulatory changes are being discussed, building controls expertise must be part of that conversation. The recent 91���� technical white paper, launched at the House of Lords, is an important starting point for that dialogue. It highlights the critical role intelligent building controls play in improving energy efficiency, reducing emissions and supporting national net zero ambitions. Our aim now is to ensure that this evidence helps inform future policy discussions and strengthens recognition of the sector’s role in delivering better-performing buildings.

Delivering Value for Members

Visibility of the Association is important for our members to know that we’re there as a source of support. It’s fantastic to see 91���� membership continuing to grow but keeping our members engaged and supported is just as important as welcoming new companies into the Association.

My priority is to ensure your 91���� membership delivers real, practical value, making sure we are genuinely listening to what you need from us. Whether your challenges are technical, commercial or regulatory, the Association is here as a source of guidance, support and connection. Our Management Committee is elected by the membership and exists to represent you, ensuring the direction of the Association reflects the priorities and needs of the businesses we serve.

Our recent Building Safety Act workshops are a great example of this in action. They were developed directly from member feedback and demonstrate what we can achieve when we listen carefully and respond with something meaningful. We will continue to invest in initiatives that provide added value for members and deliver practical support that helps businesses navigate industry change.

I want members to feel confident in telling us what would make their membership even more valuable: whether that’s stronger political representation, clearer technical guidance, enhanced training pathways or more opportunities to connect with peers. It should always be a two-way conversation. Events such as our breakfast meetings provide a great forum for developing ideas, sharing insight and helping us better understand what our members want from their Association.

Looking Ahead

I am very much looking forward to working closely with Ron Purcell in his role as Vice President. We bring different perspectives and experiences, and I believe that balance is a real strength for the Association. The challenges facing our sector, from skills and competency to policy and market awareness, require collaborative leadership.

Ron shares my commitment to raising standards and strengthening the industry for the long term, and together we are focused on ensuring that 91���� remains responsive, progressive and firmly aligned with the needs of its members.

Strong leadership is never about one individual. It is about a team that listens, challenges constructively and moves the industry forward with clarity and purpose. That includes the expertise and dedication of our Management Committee and the many working groups that contribute their time and knowledge. This collaborative effort plays a vital role in shaping the Association’s direction and ensuring that the work we do reflects the needs of the wider membership.

Building controls is about doing things properly, improving buildings and contributing to sustainability in a meaningful way.

I look forward to working with our members, Management Committee, partners and the 91���� team as we continue working together to secure the future of our industry.

The Association’s latest Market Information Report shows total industry revenues for Products, Installed Systems and Service & Maintenance supplied into the UK market fell slightly in Q4 2025 to £207.5 million, a 1.2% decrease compared with the previous quarter.

Despite this marginal quarterly softening, the overall annual picture indicates a resilient sector, with total market value rising by 0.1% year-on-year across 2025.

Product supply remains steady

Product revenues increased modestly during the final quarter of the year, rising by 0.5% to £39.0 million. OEM sales continued to recover, although distributor channels remained more subdued.

Across the full year, product performance was mixed, with growth in OEM activity helping offset weaker demand through distribution channels. Overall, Product supply remained broadly stable and accounted for just under one-fifth of total market value.

Installed systems activity eases

Installation Value Added declined by 2.3% in Q4 to £110.5 million, reflecting softer installation activity across parts of the market during the year.

On an annual basis, installed systems revenues also eased slightly. However, the proportion of value added within installed systems remained stable, underlining the continued importance of engineering expertise, commissioning and integrated system delivery in modern building performance.

Service and maintenance continues to grow

Service and Maintenance once again proved to be one of the most resilient areas of the sector. While revenues dipped slightly in the final quarter, the segment recorded annual growth of 2.1%, reaching £220.1 million and increasing its share of overall market value.

The continued expansion of service activity reflects the growing importance of long-term system optimisation, maintenance and building performance management across commercial estates.

Industry outlook for 2026

Overall, the data suggests that while 2025 did not deliver strong headline growth, the market demonstrated notable resilience. Stable product demand, consistent system pricing structures and continued expansion in service revenues helped maintain overall market value.

As the industry moves into 2026, the report suggests a market environment characterised more by consolidation and careful investment than rapid expansion.

Jen Vickers, President of the Building Controls Industry Association, said: “While the latest figures show a slight softening in activity during the final quarter of 2025, the overall picture is one of resilience. The building controls sector continues to play a vital role in helping buildings operate more efficiently, reducing energy consumption and supporting the transition to net zero.

The continued growth in service and maintenance also reflects a broader shift in how buildings are managed, with organisations increasingly recognising the value of optimising existing systems and improving operational performance. As we move into 2026, the focus across the industry will be on steady investment, skills development and ensuring building controls remain central to delivering smarter, more efficient buildings.”

The 91���� publishes its Market Intelligence Report quarterly, providing detailed data on trends, revenues and growth opportunities across the BEMS sector.

The current Managing Director of 1 Control, a people first, engineer led business dedicated to making building controls simpler, smarter, and genuinely usable, Ben has built an impressive reputation as an advocate for practical, high quality engineering across the built environment. His hands-on experience and commitment to long term system performance make him the ideal choice to lead the 91����’s Technical Working Group at a time of rapid change for the industry.

The Technical Working Group plays a key role in developing a balanced 91���� view on important technical matters. It leads on publishing technical guidance, identifying emerging technical and technological developments that impact the industry, and helping to create information and learning programmes for members. The group also provides input into standards and technical documentation to ensure the 91���� continues to represent and support the needs of the building controls community.

Passionate about ensuring that the sector grows in a way that supports innovation, diversity, and integrity, Ben places great importance on collaboration over hierarchy. He said: “I’m excited to take on the Chair position at a time when our industry is evolving quickly. As systems become more connected and expectations rise, we need standards and leadership that are practical, collaborative and grounded in real experience. If we support independent expertise, develop new talent and widen participation, we’ll continue to strengthen what is already a very capable sector.”

91���� Executive Officer, Catherine Walker commented: “Ben’s depth of technical expertise and understanding of how building controls work in practice make him an exceptional choice for the role of Technical Working Group Chair. His knowledge of the sector and commitment to raising standards will serve the association and its members extremely well. Building on the excellent work of our longstanding previous Chair, Richard Bush, Ben brings both experience and enthusiasm, and I’m confident his leadership will help the group continue to strengthen the technical foundation and credibility of our industry.”

Ben believes that the success of any building, in energy efficiency, resilience, and occupant comfort, relies on well designed, maintainable control systems. With extensive experience and a strong commitment to improving clarity, consistency, and training across the profession, he aims to help the 91���� continue driving progress through simpler standards, honest communication, and systems that truly deliver.

Ben will use his extensive technical expertise and collaborative approach to lead the Technical Working Group in its mission to provide clear technical guidance, anticipate emerging trends, and shape the standards and learning resources that help advance the building controls industry.

Following another year of exceptional entries, the judging panel faced the challenging task of selecting this year’s shortlist. The breadth and quality of submissions once again reflect the strength, technical expertise and commitment that exist throughout the building controls community.

Winners will be revealed at the 91���� Awards ceremony and dinner, taking place at The Eastside Rooms in Birmingham on Thursday 7 May 2026, where industry leaders, innovators and future talent will come together to celebrate the achievements shaping the future of intelligent buildings.

91���� President, Jen Vickers, said: “The 91���� Awards continue to showcase the very best of our sector. This year’s finalists demonstrate not only technical excellence and innovation, but also a deep commitment to professionalism, sustainability and developing the next generation of talent.

“The standard of entries was incredibly high, making the judging process both rigorous and rewarding. On behalf of the 91���� and our judges, I would like to congratulate every finalist. Your achievements highlight the vital role building controls and automation play in delivering safe, sustainable and high-performing buildings.”

This year, the 91���� would also like to acknowledge with great sadness that one of our finalists, Graham Neilson, passed away on 31 January 2026. Graham’s contribution to the industry and his dedication to professionalism and excellence will be remembered by colleagues and peers across the sector. The 91���� extends its sincere condolences to his family, friends and all who worked with him.

Finalists of the 91���� Awards 2026 are as follows:

Building Controls and BEMS Company of the Year Sponsored by Trend Control Systems

1 Control Systems

andOr Systems

Crown House Technologies

Global Associates

Linear Control Systems Ltd

SSE Energy Solutions

Engineer of the Year Sponsored by Johnson Controls

Matt Chivers, E.ON Control Solutions

Jason Edmed, 1 Control

Graham Neilson, Crown House Technologies (sadly passed away 31 January 2026)

Daniel Sedgwick, SSE Energy Solutions

David Whitehead, E.ON Control Solutions

Jonathan Woolford, Schneider Electric

Young Engineer of the Year

Ashley Laing, E.ON Controls Solutions

Phil Nash, Mitie Energy

Kieran Oake, E.ON Control Solutions

Sophie Osborne, Lloret

Daniel Sedgwick, SSE Energy Solutions

George Stephens-Clark, InTandem Systems

Apprentice of the Year Sponsored by Group Horizon

Neisha Barnsley, E.ON Control Solutions

Leah Duck, Crown House Technologies

Rivah Kirby, Kendra Energy Solutions

Jack Savage, SSE Energy Solutions

William Sebatch, Schneider Electric

Ryan Winter, SSE Energy Solutions

Energy Innovation and Impact Award Sponsored by Priva Building Automation

3mse, Boiler Strategy Modifications for CBRE & Savills

BMSI, E60+ Programme

Cosysense, AI Building Automation

E.ON Control Solutions, Retrofit Energy Solution for CBRE

Schneider Electric, Building Data Platform at NHS National Rehabilitation Centre

Smart Managed Solutions, Intelligent Energy Optimisation for Savills

Best Service and Maintenance Provider Sponsored by Western Automation

3mse

BMSI

DAE Energy Solutions

Global Associates

Kendra Energy Solutions

Schneider Electric

Technical Innovation of the Year – Products Sponsored by CIBSE

Bubll Automation, Sentinll AI Consultant

Cosysense, AI Building Automation

Distech Controls, Resense Move

J2 Innovations, NEXIO

Schneider Electric, EcoStruxure Building Activate

Siemens Buildings, Siemens Intelligent Valve

Technical Innovation of the Year – Projects

andOr Systems, Blue Fin Building AHU Decarbonisation

BMSI, E60+ Intelligent Energy Optimisation

Fantom Factory, Big Bytes for Fast Food! A SkySpark delivery

Lockheed Martin, Connected, Resilient, Intelligent: A New Era of Facilities

Mitie, Transforming Building Management (Rolls Building)

System Five, a 4energy group company, LightFi Sustainability Project

Sustainability Strategy Champion Sponsored by Electrical & Mechanical Controls

Karl Phan BEng (Hons), Organon Pharmaceutical

Platinum Energy, Platinum Facilities Services

Platinum Facilities Services

Savills Engineering

The Francis Crick Institute

The Scalpel FM Team

Contribution to Training Sponsored by 91���� Training

3mse

One Sightsolutions

Schneider Electric

Sontay Academy

Outstanding Contribution of the Year Sponsored by 91����

Winner to be announced at the Awards ceremony.

Jen succeeds Stacey Lucas, who has served as 91���� President for the past two years, helping to strengthen the association’s voice within the building services and wider built environment sector.

Reflecting on her presidency, Stacey Lucas said: “It has been an absolute privilege to serve as 91���� President over the past two years. During that time, we have made significant progress in raising awareness of the role building energy management systems play in improving building performance and supporting the UK’s energy and carbon reduction goals. I am incredibly proud of what the Association and its members have achieved together and grateful for the dedication of the 91���� team and wider community. I have every confidence that Jen will build on this momentum and continue to strengthen the Association’s impact.”

Jen Vickers has worked for Crown House Technologies, part of Laing O’Rourke, since 2015 and brings significant industry experience to the role. She has served as 91���� Vice President for the past two years and has been actively involved in a number of key initiatives aimed at strengthening the future of the sector.

These include helping to launch the 91���� Young Engineers Network (YEN) and establishing it as a formal working group within the Association, as well as supporting the development of the Building Controls apprenticeship programme, which is helping to build a pipeline of new talent entering the industry.

Taking on the role, Jen said: “I would like to recognise the outstanding contribution Stacey has made during her presidency. Thanks to her leadership and the work of the wider 91���� community, the Association is in a strong position as we look to the future. Building controls sits at the centre of how modern buildings perform, and over the coming years my focus will be on raising awareness of our industry, strengthening skills and training pathways, and ensuring 91���� membership continues to deliver real value for our members.”

Jen will work closely with new 91���� Vice President Ron Purcell as the Association continues to champion the role of building controls across the built environment.

Ron Purcell said: “I’m delighted to be stepping into the role of Vice President and supporting Jen and the Association. The building controls sector has a critical role to play in improving building performance and delivering more sustainable, energy-efficient buildings, and I look forward to working with the 91���� team and our members to help drive the industry forward.”

Together, Jen and Ron will work closely with the 91���� Management Committee and wider membership as the Association continues to champion the role of building controls in delivering safer, more efficient and more sustainable buildings.

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]]>Announcing our new President and Vice PresidentRachael Zaidel LambMon, 23 Feb 2026 13:55:15 +0000/news/the-warm-homes-plan-must-go-further-why-smart-building-controls-for-non-domestic-buildings-are-essential-to-the-uks-net-zero-economic-and-public-health-goals659d81c2d781b9569b0d1008:659d8219d781b9569b0d1ce6:699c5c439c5da16212508a09If the UK is to meet its legally binding climate targets while supporting economic growth and public service resilience, it must confront a critical policy blind spot: the decarbonisation of non-domestic buildings. The Government’s Warm Homes Plan reinforces the importance of energy efficiency, yet its focus on the domestic sector leaves a substantial share of energy use, emissions and economic opportunity largely unaddressed.

Commercial and public buildings account for a significant proportion of national energy demand and carbon output, but policy support for this sector remains fragmented and short-term. Official government statistics show that non-domestic buildings are responsible for while the has repeatedly warned that current policies fall well short of what is required to meet future carbon budgets.

This gap matters not only for climate delivery, but for the resilience of public services, the competitiveness of UK businesses, as well as the health and productivity of millions of people who occupy these buildings every day. At a time of sustained pressure on energy costs, public finances and workforce outcomes, the absence of a clear, long-term strategy for non-domestic buildings represents a missed opportunity to deploy proven, cost-effective solutions at scale.

One such solution - advanced Building Energy Management Systems (BEMS) - is already delivering measurable carbon savings, operational cost reductions and improvements in indoor environmental quality across a broad range of non-domestic buildings including offices, schools and hospitals. Yet despite robust evidence and widespread availability, building controls remain underrepresented in national policy. This must change.

Building controls: central to delivering carbon budgets

The Building Controls Industry Association’s (91����) recent technical white paper, , demonstrates that upgrading existing non-domestic buildings to Class A and Class B controls represents one of the most effective decarbonisation interventions available to the Government.

The analysis shows that upgrading commercial and public sector buildings to advanced controls could deliver 15 million tonnes of CO₂e savings between 2026 and 2035. This equates to around 5% of all emissions produced by England and Wales in 2023, based on the UK’s official greenhouse gas inventory. 

The Climate Change Committee’s Seventh Carbon Budget reinforces the scale of this opportunity, concluding that energy management, instrumentation and control measures could deliver up to 60% of the energy-efficiency-related emissions reductions required in public and commercial buildings by 2040. This places BEMS at the core of the UK’s decarbonisation pathway, not as an enabling technology, but as a primary delivery mechanism.

The evidence is unambiguous - without rapid, large-scale deployment of advanced building controls, the UK will struggle to meet its future carbon budgets in the non-domestic sector.

Value for money in a constrained fiscal environment

Energy policy must reflect fiscal reality. Public sector budgets remain under pressure, while businesses continue to absorb elevated operating costs following years of energy price volatility. In this context, solutions with long payback periods or high capital requirements are difficult to scale quickly.

Advanced building controls offer a compelling alternative. 91����’s analysis shows that Class A and Class B BEMS typically deliver payback within 4–9 years, depending on building type. Over a ten-year period, net financial savings remain positive even after upfront installation costs:

• Offices over 1,000 m²: £23,485 saving

• Schools: £3,504 saving

• Hospitals: £7,293 saving

For offices in particular, BEMS are among the most cost-effective carbon abatement measures available, outperforming air source heat pumps, insulation upgrades and solar PV when assessed on a cost-per-tonne basis.

A typical 1,000 m² office can save 105 tonnes of CO₂e over ten years, delivering a net saving of £224 per tonne of carbon abated. At a national level, this represents exceptional value for money, especially compared with technologies that require extensive grid upgrades or long-term structural change.

Health, productivity and economic resilience

The benefits of advanced building controls extend well beyond energy and carbon. Modern BEMS continuously monitor CO₂ levels, humidity and indoor pollutants, adjusting heating and ventilation systems in real time to maintain healthy indoor environments.

The relationship between indoor air quality, health outcomes and cognitive performance is increasingly recognised across government. 91����’s white paper indicates that improved indoor environments enabled by advanced controls could reduce sickness absence sufficiently to save over £1 billion annually across the UK economy - a finding consistent with assessments of the economic cost of workplace ill health.

In education, the case is particularly strong. Installing Class A BEMS in schools could prevent around 2 million sick days every year, while enabling 552,000 more pupils to succeed in their national exams. These outcomes align directly with government priorities on educational attainment, workforce readiness and long-term productivity.

In offices, the economic impact is even more pronounced. By improving comfort, wellbeing and attendance, advanced building controls could generate £5.29 billion in annual Gross Value Added, rising to £12.75 billion by 2050 as adoption scales. These gains directly support the Government’s stated ambition to raise productivity and unlock sustainable economic growth

Policy certainty is now critical

With the scheduled to conclude in 2028, there is an urgent need for clarity on successor mechanisms. Without a clear long-term framework, investment risks stalling just as delivery must accelerate.

91���� supports the exploration of public-private partnership models to unlock sustained investment in public sector estates. However, private finance will only flow at scale where the Government provides clear direction, consistent standards and long-term policy certainty for non-domestic buildings. 

As the UK’s only trade association dedicated exclusively to building controls and automation, 91���� and its members are committed to working with the Government to close this gap. The technology is proven, the evidence is robust, and the economic, social and environmental benefits are clear.

Smart buildings as national infrastructure

Advanced building controls are not a secondary consideration within the Warm Homes agenda - they are essential national infrastructure for a low-carbon, productive and healthy UK.

By placing BEMS at the heart of policy for non-domestic buildings, the Government can deliver rapid emissions reductions, reduce pressure on public finances, improve health outcomes and unlock billions in economic value.

91����’s position is clear and resolute: smart building controls are one of the fastest, most cost-effective and impactful routes to Net Zero - and the UK cannot afford to delay their widespread adoption.