Homes for Net Zero Phase 3 - Research Programme Contractor Procurement

The Department for Energy Security and Net Zero (DESNZ) is seeking contractors to deliver Phase 3 of the Homes for Net Zero (HfNZ P3) research programme, a continuation of a large-scale trial involving approximately 1,250 owner-occupied homes. The programme aims to identify practical, scalable pathways for decarbonising homes, with particular focus on complex-to-decarbonise and space-constrained properties using low-carbon heating solutions. Key research areas include evaluating the real-world performance, costs, and user experience of heat pumps (including reversible air-to-air systems), alternative electric heating and domestic hot water solutions, consumer engagement approaches, and climate resilience measures such as overheating mitigation. The work will be delivered through four competitively procured work packages: (1) Trial management and coordination, including programme management, data quality assurance, participant management, and support for an innovation test bed; (2) Data analysis and research to answer key research questions using in-home monitoring data; (3) Consumer engagement and social research to develop best-practice approaches for transitioning homes to low-carbon heating; and (4) Design and installation of low-carbon heating measures, including air-source heat pumps, reversible air-air systems, and monitoring equipment. Contractors must work collaboratively across all work packages and with DESNZ, alongside linked programmes including the Built Environment Adaptation and Resilience (BEAR) programme and Heat Pump Ready Programme. Outputs will include annual research reports, trial delivery summaries, thematic research briefs, publicly accessible datasets (subject to GDPR), and a final report to inform DESNZ policy on clean heat, energy efficiency, and climate resilience. A supplier event will be held on 29th April 2026 (14:00-16:00 on MS Teams).