Overview

This bill mandates the UK Secretary of State to create and implement an Energy in Buildings Strategy aimed at reducing fuel consumption, promoting low-carbon buildings, and tackling fuel poverty. The bill also sets specific targets for reducing energy demand across various fuel types.

Description

The Energy (Buildings and Reduction of Fuel Use) Bill requires the Secretary of State to:

• Publish an Energy in Buildings Strategy within 12 months of the bill's passage. This strategy must focus on low-carbon buildings, reduced fuel consumption, and eliminating fuel poverty. It must also detail cost-effective and practical measures for energy efficiency, on-site and local energy generation, and technological development.
• Consult relevant parties before publishing the strategy and take all reasonable steps to implement it, reporting annually to Parliament on progress.
• Set and implement cost-effective policies to achieve specific targets for reducing annual energy demand. These targets include reductions of at least 69 TWh for electricity (by 2020 from a 2009 baseline), a further 32 TWh for electricity (by 2030 from a 2013 baseline), 74 TWh for gas (by 2020 from a 2009 baseline), and 53 TWh for oil, coal and other fuels (by 2020 from a 2009 baseline).
• Review and revise policies if greater reductions are deemed achievable and beneficial.

Government Spending

The bill doesn't specify exact figures for government spending. However, implementing the strategy and achieving the reduction targets will likely require significant government investment in various programs and initiatives related to energy efficiency, renewable energy technologies, and support for vulnerable households facing fuel poverty.

Groups Affected

• Energy Companies: May face pressure to adapt to reduced energy demand and increased investment in renewable energy sources.
• Homeowners and Businesses: Could see increased costs for energy efficiency upgrades but potentially lower energy bills in the long run. Incentives may be offered to assist with upgrades.
• Construction Industry: Will likely be involved in building more energy-efficient structures and implementing new technologies.
• Low-Income Households: Will benefit from efforts to eradicate fuel poverty through improved energy efficiency and support programs.
• Renewable Energy Sector: Likely to see increased demand and investment.

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