The Guardian reported that the government is considering cutting energy efficiency funding to pay for a reduction in energy bills.
In response, National Energy Action Chief Executive Adam Scorer says, ‘I am pleased that the government is looking at ways to reduce energy bills. But how it does that is critical.
‘Cutting investment in decarbonising fuel poor homes would be a grave mistake. Millions of households are stuck in cold, inefficient homes, facing unaffordable bills and serious health risks. The Warm Homes Plan is vital to cut fuel poverty, address health inequalities and reduce our carbon emissions. It needs to deliver the Plan in full.
‘Any reduction in the bill is welcome. There’s a good argument for removing VAT from an essential service like energy. It is simple to do and takes a sizeable chunk off everyone’s energy bill. But the priority must be to have the greatest impact for those in greatest jeopardy this winter. There are other ways to achieve that focus on low income, struggling households and I hope the government looks at the best and fairest way to cut bills, not just the most expedient.’