Long-awaited action on energy efficiency offers route out of crisis

The trade association, representing more than 150 organisations, has consistently urged Government to channel more public and private funding into the immediate deployment of energy efficiency measures to protect the UK’s most vulnerable households. Energy efficiency upgrades make homes warmer and more comfortable, as well as reduce the UK’s vulnerability to energy price volatility in the long-term.The ADE and its members are excited by the beginning of a “new national ambition” for energy efficiency, with a bold target of reducing overall UK energy consumption by 15%. This will not only save consumers money on bills and cut emissions, but it will also significantly limit inflation and boost energy security.More energy efficient homes could save households across England and Wales more than £10 billion a year, working out at nearly £400 per household – the Government’s pledges to boost existing schemes, create a new ‘Energy Efficiency Taskforce’ and unveil a public campaign are a very positive step in the right direction, but now the ADE wants to see swift deployment and smooth delivery.CEO Lily Frencham, says: “It’s fantastic to see Government's recognition of the crucial role of energy efficiency as essential in reaching our long-term climate targets and energy needs. Today’s announcements offer a real boost to the energy efficiency sector, a boost that is essential to safeguarding the UK’s energy security and delivering net zero by 2050."Although the new funding will not come into play immediately, this is a significant and positive step - now we need buy-in from all corners of society, the energy sector and Government to work together in making this important goal a reality. The country has shown time and again how it can pull together to create real change when needed, and we look forward to seeing the incredible impact this could deliver."The ADE also welcomes the Chancellor's commitment to double the £100 support for those using alternative sources of heating such as heating oil, but notes the heat network sector eagerly awaits more clarity on whether this will feed through to its consumers or constitute the 'equivalent levels of support' previously promised.Dave Robson, CEO of InstaGroup and ADE Chair, notes: “We welcome the Government’s commitment to invest in energy efficiency as this provides a cheap, simple and effective remedy to the energy crisis. However, it is vital that this new initiative is not the latest in a long list of stop-start Government programmes and provides long-term sustainable investment to upgrade the UK’s inefficient building stock. “There’s been a dramatic drop in the number of homes insulated over the past decade, and current figures are currently far too low. It’s important we get back to insulating in excess of half a million homes a year. The energy efficiency industry has a proven track record of delivering the improvements UK homes need, and has the capability to deliver again.“The advantage of investing in energy efficiency today is that programmes can be rolled out quickly, making a real difference to the lives of ordinary people straight away. Well-insulated homes also provide the foundation for the UK’s future heating needs, as we move away from fossil fuels.“The ADE looks forward to engaging with the Government and the wider sector to help ensure that these new initiatives are a success, and that they will help to relieve the burden of excessive energy costs.”