Chancellor Kwasi Kwarteng has today revealed a Growth Plan designed to address high energy costs and enable growth across Britain.
This includes confirmation of the Energy Price Guarantee and Energy Bill Relief Scheme as well as support for businesses. There has also been some detail on the extension of the ECO scheme to address energy efficiency and a commitment to onshore wind generation in England.
Stew Horne, head of policy at Energy Saving Trust said:
“Today’s Growth Plan is welcome confirmation of support for homes and businesses in the face of the worst energy crises in a generation. Yet there is still no plan to reduce energy demand that in turn will reduce gas imports and lower energy bills now and in the future.
“The surest way to improve energy security and bring down bills is to use less energy wherever we can. Alongside the supply side measures the UK Government has announced, we need a much clearer strategy for demand side measures, including, crucially, energy efficiency. The extension of the ECO scheme and additional funds for the Public Sector Decarbonisation fund are welcome steps in the right direction, but more action is needed, including outstanding UK Government manifesto commitments on energy efficiency.
“We have been calling, alongside industry, for a clear pathway to reduce household, business and public sector energy use and a concrete plan to ensure energy security and reduce reliance on gas imports. This should include a nationwide programme of retrofitting homes, supported by a comprehensive and impartial national energy advice service.
“In addition, the UK Government has made it clear that it wishes to stimulate investment across Britain to spur growth. Investing in businesses, technologies and sectors that will deliver energy security and are net zero-aligned is the surest way to achieve sustainable and sustained growth across the UK, while driving down carbon emissions.
“The prioritisation of electric vehicle charging schemes and the commitment to unlocking the potential of onshore wind in England are both a step forward. However, much more needs to be done to accelerate these programmes, including investment in energy storage.
“We call for these areas to be addressed. We can’t afford to miss another opportunity at such a crucial time.”