Historic England Advice Note (HEAN)

Historic England has published new advice on adapting historic buildings for energy and carbon efficiency.

This Advice Note aims to provide clarity and support consistent decision-making for proposals to reduce carbon emissions and improve the energy efficiency of historic buildings. It reflects current national planning policy. 

As historic buildings continue to change and evolve, they need to contribute to a greener future and be fit for purpose for the people who live in, experience and care for them. Keeping historic buildings in use, through sensitive repair, maintenance and adaptation, can help to reduce carbon emissions, reliance on fossil fuels, and energy costs. 

This HEAN is primarily aimed at local planning authorities, heritage consultants and those involved in the planning process, but it will also be useful to building owners and occupiers. It includes clear advice on insulation, boilers and heating systems, heat pumps, draft-proofing, replacing or adapting windows, and installing solar panels. 

Download the HEAN as a pdf here.

This summer, Historic England will launch a training programme designed for local authorities and heritage professionals which they hope will grow understanding of the practical application of the Advice Note and improve consistency. Find out more and sign up for training here.