Home Insulation Carbon Payback Calculator
See how long insulation upgrades take to pay back their embodied carbon. Enter the embodied carbon per square metre, the area being insulated, expected annual emissions avoided, and an efficiency realisation factor to estimate the payback period in years.
CalcSimpler Examples
- 12 kg CO₂e/m², 150 m², 3.5 kg savings, 85% realised ⇒ 4.0 years
- 18 kg CO₂e/m², 90 m², 5.0 kg savings, 70% realised ⇒ 4.6 years
FAQ
What is embodied carbon?
It represents the greenhouse gas emissions required to manufacture, transport, and install the insulation material.
How do I estimate annual emissions avoided?
Use energy modelling results or utility data showing reduced heating fuel consumption after the upgrade.
What does realised efficiency mean?
It adjusts theoretical savings for installation quality, thermal bridging, and occupant behaviour.
Additional Information
- Embodied carbon values vary by material (e.g., cellulose vs. spray foam).
- Annual emissions avoided depend on climate zone, heating fuel, and existing insulation levels.
- A payback under 10 years is often considered favourable for retrofit projects.
CalcSimpler