Overview

This bill aims to tackle fuel poverty in England by improving the energy efficiency of homes and providing energy assistance. It mandates the Secretary of State to develop and implement a strategy to make a specified number of homes more energy efficient by a set deadline, and to publish regular reports on progress.

Description

The Fuel Poverty Bill sets a duty on the Secretary of State to make a certain number of existing homes in England "fuel poverty proof" by December 31st, 2016. A home is considered "fuel poverty proof" if it achieves at least a Band B rating (or Band C for "hard-to-treat" properties) on an energy performance certificate.

Key Aspects:

• Fuel Poverty Strategy: The Secretary of State must publish a strategy within six months, outlining plans, policies, and costs to meet the targets, including measures to promote energy efficiency and sustainable energy. This strategy will specify the number of properties to be improved each year.
• Annual Reports: Annual reports must be published detailing progress, the number of homes improved, and projections for future fuel poverty levels. The target number of homes to be improved may be adjusted based on updated assessments of fuel poverty.
• Hard-to-Treat Properties: The bill defines "hard-to-treat" properties and allows for a less stringent energy efficiency standard (Band C) for these homes.
• Energy Assistance Packages: Regulations will be created to require energy suppliers to offer discounted tariffs to fuel-poor customers until their homes are improved.
• Consultation: The Secretary of State must consult with relevant organizations (those representing fuel-poor individuals, environmental interests, and businesses) before publishing the strategy and making key regulations.
• Amendments to Energy Performance Certificates: The bill accounts for potential future changes to the energy performance certificate scheme, ensuring the target energy efficiency remains consistent.

Government Spending

The bill mandates government expenditure on the initiatives outlined in the Fuel Poverty Strategy to achieve the reduction of fuel poverty. Specific figures are not provided in the bill, but section 12 states that all expenditure incurred by the Secretary of State under this act, and any increases to sums payable under other acts will be funded from Parliament.

Groups Affected

• Households in Fuel Poverty: This bill directly aims to benefit households in fuel poverty by improving the energy efficiency of their homes and potentially lowering their energy bills through energy assistance packages.
• Energy Suppliers: Energy suppliers will be required to provide energy assistance packages to eligible customers, which may affect their profitability.
• Government Agencies: The Secretary of State and various government agencies will be responsible for implementing the strategy, monitoring progress, and publishing reports.
• Construction and Energy Efficiency Industries: This bill could stimulate these industries due to increased demand for energy efficiency upgrades.

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