Overview

This Fuel Poverty Bill aims to tackle fuel poverty in England by improving the energy efficiency of homes. It mandates the Secretary of State to create and implement a strategy to make a specified number of homes "fuel poverty proof" by a certain date, defined as achieving a certain energy performance certificate rating.

Description

The bill establishes a duty for the Secretary of State to eradicate fuel poverty in England by ensuring a minimum number of existing properties reach a specified energy efficiency standard (Energy Performance Certificate Band B, or Band C for "hard-to-treat" properties) by December 31, 2016. A "Fuel Poverty Strategy" must be published within six months, outlining plans, policies, costs, and responsibilities to meet this goal. This strategy includes measures to promote energy efficiency, microgeneration, and sustainable energy, possibly involving new functions for the Gas and Electricity Markets Authority. Annual reports on progress will be published. The bill also defines "fuel poverty" and "hard-to-treat properties" (those where improvements would be excessively expensive). The Secretary of State must consult relevant organizations before key actions. The bill includes provisions for energy assistance packages from energy suppliers for eligible customers and outlines how the strategy will be revised if targets are not met. Changes to the energy performance certificate scheme are accounted for, ensuring the bill's objectives remain relevant.

Government Spending

The bill mandates government spending on initiatives to reduce fuel poverty. The exact figures are not specified in the bill itself, but the "Fuel Poverty Strategy" will detail estimated costs for each proposed measure along with information on funding sources.

Groups Affected

• Households in fuel poverty: The bill directly aims to benefit them by improving home energy efficiency, potentially lowering energy bills.
• Energy suppliers: May be required to offer energy assistance packages at lower tariffs to fuel-poor customers (section 10).
• Gas and Electricity Markets Authority: May see new functions to assist in meeting the bill's objectives.
• Homeowners and landlords: May be impacted by the requirements for energy efficiency improvements, depending on the specifics of the Fuel Poverty Strategy.
• Environmental organizations: Will be consulted and play a role in shaping the Fuel Poverty Strategy.
• Businesses: Will be consulted and their interests considered during the development of the strategy.

Powered by nyModel