Our response to the appointment of Liz Truss as Prime Minister

Mike Thornton, chief executive of Energy Saving Trust, said:

“Liz Truss takes up the helm as Prime Minister during the worst energy crisis in a generation. She must urgently prioritise addressing energy security and affordability, whilst continuing to reduce carbon emissions so we can maintain a liveable environment for the future.

“We believe there are three key priorities which will help tackle these issues together. Firstly, with October’s energy price rises set to overtake existing support, we must see details soon of emergency measures that provide adequate assistance for those who cannot afford to pay their bills.

“Secondly, we are calling for the development of an Energy Demand Strategy which enables households to use less energy by improving the energy efficiency of their homes through enhanced retrofit schemes, supported by a national, impartial and tailored advice service which breaks down barriers to action. A nationwide retrofit programme would permanently reduce the energy bills of the UK’s most inefficient homes by an average of £1,000 a year. Championing the roll out of low carbon heating, such as heat pumps, and maintaining commitments to vital funding schemes, will also be key.

“Finally, to decouple the UK from volatile global fossil fuel markets and get back on track to meet carbon reduction targets, we must see investment in the generation and storage of renewable energy, particularly wind and solar. This will play an essential role in facilitating the energy transition in the most cost-effective way and in reducing the risk of surging prices in the future. Opposing it in favour of new domestic fossil fuel extraction is a concerning backwards step and we urge a change of position.

“The energy crisis is not going away – we need long-term solutions to a long-term problem. The Prime Minister must take immediate action otherwise the cost of the challenge will increase:  the people, the country and the planet cannot afford to wait.”

If you’re worried about paying your energy bills, there is help available across the UK. See here for support near you and energy saving advice. To reduce your energy use at home and save money on your energy bills, our quick tips could help.