Industry and stakeholders react to the government’s latest energy measures

The industry and stakeholders have been reacting to the raft of measures that the government announced today.

Heat Pump Association UK Chief Executive, Charlotte Lee said:

The Boiler Upgrade Scheme plays a vital role in supporting households and small businesses to adopt heat pumps. Many who rely on heating oil have faced significant price uncertainty in recent months and lack the protection of the energy price cap. The £1,500 uplift for oil users will make the transition to heat pumps more affordable, helping to shield families and small businesses from volatile fossil fuel costs in the years ahead.”

She added:

The move to begin decoupling electricity prices from gas is a significant step that will help unlock the UK’s transition to electrification, ensuring that low-carbon heat is the most cost-effective option, always. We also welcome the Government’s plans to cut unnecessary planning barriers for air source heat pumps, making installation easier for non-domestic buildings and residents in flats and further funding to upgrade social homes over the next two years.”

Madeleine Gabriel, Mission Director for Nesta’s Sustainable Future Mission, said:

Doubling down on clean heat and energy is the right move to protect the UK from further fossil fuel shocks. The only durable way to protect households and the public purse from energy crises is to reduce our structural dependence on gas and oil. The government’s commitment to accelerate electrification and unlock clean power are important steps towards building a more resilient and independent energy system. In particular, supporting homes to move away from fossil fuel heating and towards electric heat pumps is a critical step in reducing reliance on imported gas and oil.”

The Campaign for Rural England welcomed the renewed focus on clean energy, but warned that reforms must not come at the expense of the countryside. The CPRE said:

Harnessing the UK’s vast potential for rooftop solar offers a clear path to accelerating the transition to clean energy without putting additional pressure on rural landscapes. We support the government’s commitment to better use the public estate and expand community solar; exactly the kinds of targeted action CPRE has long supported. However, concerns remain over proposals to fast-track major grid infrastructure through sweeping changes to the planning system. This could allow large developments to bypass proper scrutiny, risking further loss of countryside.”