Overview

The Climate Change (Sectoral Targets) Bill aims to establish legally binding targets for reducing carbon emissions and increasing renewable energy sources in the UK. It sets out specific targets across various sectors, mandates the creation of a national energy strategy, and outlines mechanisms for reviewing and updating these targets.

Description

This bill sets ambitious targets for energy efficiency improvements, renewable energy generation, and carbon emission reduction across various sectors in the UK. Key targets include:

• Residential Energy Efficiency: A 20% increase in residential energy efficiency by 2020 (from a 2010 baseline).
• Commercial/Public Sector Energy Usage: A 10% decrease in energy usage by 2010 and a further 10% decrease by 2020 (from 2005 and 2010 baselines respectively).
• Renewable Electricity Generation: 10% renewable electricity by 2010 and 20% by 2020.
• Combined Heat and Power (CHP): Installation of 10 gigawatts of CHP capacity by 2010.
• Microgeneration Installations: An eightfold increase in dwellings with microgeneration installations by 2012 (from 2007 levels).
• Dwelling Energy Ratings: 80% of dwellings to achieve a Standard Assessment Procedure (SAP) rating of 80 or above by 2016.
• Zero Carbon New Dwellings: All new dwellings built from 2016 onwards must be zero-carbon.

The Secretary of State is responsible for implementing these targets, developing a comprehensive energy strategy by 2012 (including targets up to 2050), and consulting with relevant stakeholders and parliamentary bodies. The Secretary of State may also amend targets if advised to do so by relevant advisory bodies.

Government Spending

The bill mandates that all expenditure incurred by the Secretary of State in implementing the Act, and any increases in sums payable under other acts due to this Act, will be paid from public funds. No specific figures are provided in the bill itself.

Groups Affected

• Energy Sector: Significant impact on energy producers, impacting those involved in fossil fuels, renewables, CHP, and microgeneration.
• Construction Industry: Significant changes to building regulations and standards for new homes.
• Homeowners/Renters: Will experience changes to energy efficiency requirements and potentially higher costs for home improvements.
• Businesses: Businesses in commercial and public sectors face significant energy efficiency targets.
• Government: Significant responsibility for setting and enforcing targets, developing strategies, and managing associated costs.

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