Overview

The Microgeneration and Local Energy Bill aims to boost microgeneration (small-scale energy production) and energy efficiency in the UK. It introduces several measures to encourage the use of renewable energy sources, improve energy efficiency in homes, and simplify the regulatory environment for small-scale energy producers.

Description

This bill encompasses various aspects of promoting microgeneration and energy efficiency:

• Revised Microgeneration Strategy: Requires the Secretary of State to review and update the existing microgeneration strategy, considering feedback from stakeholders.
• Fiscal Strategy for Energy Efficiency: Mandates the Chancellor to create and periodically review a fiscal strategy to encourage energy efficiency and microgeneration, consulting relevant parties.
• Planning Permission Review: Directs a review of planning regulations to potentially make it easier to install microgeneration equipment on agricultural land.
• Property Marketing Information: Requires estate agents to include energy ratings and a climate-change awareness notice in all property marketing materials.
• Council Tax and Non-Domestic Rates: Stipulates that improvements made to a property for energy efficiency or microgeneration will not lead to an increase in council tax or business rates.
• Mortgages for Energy Efficiency Measures: Requires banks and building societies to offer mortgage facilities for installing energy efficiency measures and microgeneration systems.
• Smart Electricity Meters: Mandates that all new domestic electricity meters installed after a specified date must be capable of measuring both imported and exported electricity.
• Gas and Electricity Markets Authority's Role: Expands the Gas and Electricity Markets Authority's responsibilities to include promoting energy efficiency and local power generation.
• Licensing of Electricity Supply: Introduces an exemption from licensing requirements for small-scale local electricity distribution networks.

Government Spending

The bill does not specify direct government spending figures. However, the implementation of the revised microgeneration strategy, fiscal strategy, and planning regulation changes may involve costs related to research, consultation, and administration. Conversely, the bill could lead to long-term savings through reduced energy consumption and increased energy independence.

Groups Affected

• Homeowners: May benefit from lower energy bills, increased property value (without council tax increases), and easier access to financing for energy efficiency improvements.
• Businesses (Banks and Building Societies): Required to offer mortgage products for energy efficiency measures.
• Estate Agents: Required to include energy ratings and a climate change message in property marketing materials.
• Microgeneration Companies: Could experience increased demand for their products and services.
• Local Authorities: Involved in the review of planning regulations and the implementation of the new rules.
• Rural Residents: Potentially benefit from changes in planning regulations that may make it easier to install microgeneration equipment.
• Gas and Electricity Markets Authority: Takes on expanded responsibilities related to energy efficiency and local power generation.

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