Withhold the prolongation of the anticipation for reasonably priced, cozy dwellings
In the face of a looming energy crisis and a cost-of-living crisis that left hardship and tragedy in its wake last winter, the interim CEO of UK100, Jason Torrance, has criticised the government's shift towards renewed use of gas burners. Torrance warns that this move undermines hopes of reaching net-zero targets and worsens hardship for those struggling with the cost-of-living crisis.
The energy crisis, it seems, is within the UK's control, and insulation can help address it effectively. Energy efficiency is crucial for boosting the UK economy, reducing consumer bills while tackling net zero. The "End The Wait. Insulate." report presents a cost-neutral, oven-ready social housing efficiency plan that could support over 20,000 jobs.
The UK government needs to urgently bolster its efficiency targets to put money back into pockets and permanently reduce consumption. According to the report, an efficiency market revival could support 175,000 jobs and add £6bn to the economy by 2030.
Simple upgrades like loft insulation can save households hundreds of pounds a year, yet 6.2 million households live in poorly insulated homes, losing money and energy. The energy crisis hits the poorest households the hardest, with costs rising twice as much as the wealthiest.
Local authorities have the ability to deliver energy efficiency measures effectively, as recognized in the Mission Zero report. Support for social housing can catalyse the wider efficiency market, reducing costs for private landlords and addressing skills and supply chain gaps.
However, the 2013 cut to energy efficiency support saw insulation rates fall around 90%. Policies since have failed to resuscitate the industry. Last year, government-funded efficiency measures fell by half, to 97% below 2012 levels.
Housing Secretary Michael Gove signalled a potential u-turn on phasing out gas boilers and improving rental property energy performance. Torrance states that the government's decision to reinstate the use of gas boilers could deface any hope of reaching net zero targets and further burden people struggling with the cost-of-living.
The UK is 'strikingly unprepared' for the impacts of the climate crisis, from coping with the hottest temperatures on record to protecting against bitter winters. The only people who will thank Gove for delaying efficiency are landlords and energy company executives.
There is a real risk Westminster is about to fiddle while Europe burns and boils, as some senior politicians retreat from bold Net Zero commitments. The Mission Zero report, published this year, recognised the crucial role of efficiency in delivering net zero, energy security, reduced bills, and recommended decarbonising homes.
As the expected winter election approaches, politicians may regret missed opportunities to fix energy issues while they still had the chance. The UK government must act swiftly to bolster its efficiency targets and deliver energy efficiency measures to put money back into the pockets of struggling households and permanently reduce consumption.
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