Emissions Reduction (Local Authorities in London) Bill [HL]

Official Summary

A Bill to enable London Borough Councils and the Common Council of the City of London to achieve reductions in airborne emissions from specified plant in their areas and to make provision for the Secretary of State to set emission limits for such plant; to provide for fixed penalty notices in specified circumstances; and for connected purposes

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Overview

This Bill aims to improve air quality in London by empowering local authorities to designate areas with high pollution levels as "air quality improvement areas." Within these areas, the Bill sets emission limits for various types of plant and machinery, introducing penalties for non-compliance, including fixed penalty notices.

Description

The Bill allows London boroughs and the City of London to designate areas exceeding World Health Organization air quality guidelines as air quality improvement areas. This designation triggers emission limits for specified plant, including:

Boilers (gas-fired, <1MW)
Non-road mobile machinery (subject to exemptions)
Stationary generators (<1MW)
Solid fuel boilers (<1MW, meeting specific standards)
Combined cooling, heat, and power plants

The Secretary of State sets the specific emission limits (NOx and PM) through regulations. The Bill establishes offences and enforcement mechanisms, including fixed penalty notices (up to £150) and the power for authorized officers to enter premises (excluding dwellings) for inspections. Penalties for stationary idling are also increased within designated areas.

Government Spending

The Bill doesn't directly specify government spending. However, it could lead to increased costs for local authorities in implementing and enforcing the regulations, and potentially for businesses needing to upgrade their equipment to meet the new emission limits. The exact financial impact is yet to be determined.

Groups Affected

London Borough Councils and City of London Corporation: Responsible for designating areas, enforcing regulations, and issuing penalties.
Businesses operating specified plant within designated areas: May face costs associated with upgrading equipment to comply with emission limits, potential fines for non-compliance, and increased administrative burden.
Residents in designated areas: Could experience improved air quality, but may also face disruption during inspections or enforcement actions.
Plant manufacturers and retailers: May need to adapt their products to meet the new emission standards.

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