Conference Programme

Opening address

• Ben Saltmarsh, Head of Wales, National Energy Action

Panel sessions

Views from the frontline: where are we now?

Fuel poverty is a deep, systemic issue in Wales. After five years of persistently high energy prices, many find themselves in deep poverty and debt simply from trying to stay warm and keep the lights on. Join this panel to hear expert perspectives on the ongoing impacts and road ahead to support those most in need.

• Chair: Danni Barnes, Deputy Chief Executive, National Energy Action
• Mabli Jones, Head of Policy (Poverty), Bevan Foundation
• Lindsey Kearton, Head of Advocacy (Wales), Citizens Advice Cymru
• Gemma Baker, Policy and Performance Manager, Pembrokeshire County Council

Ministerial Address: priorities for the new Senedd term

Keynote address and interview with the Deputy First Minister and Cabinet Minister for Social Justice and Equality, Sioned Williams MS.

The future of retrofit in Wales: more than just measures

Upgrading fuel poor homes remains one of Wales’ biggest challenges. It is essential to tackling fuel poverty, reducing emissions, and improving health. As ambitions for retrofit grow, how can programmes go further and faster while delivering better outcomes for those most in need? Join this panel to explore the future of retrofit in Wales and approaches involved to make it a success.

• Chair: Matt Copeland, Interim Director of Policy, National Energy Action
• Welsh Government
• Liz Lambert, Sustainable Development Group Leader, Cardiff Council
• James Williams, Co-founder and Chief Executive Officer, Sero

Breakout sessions

Pick from one of three key breakout sessions, including:

Energy debt: clearing the decks

Energy debt is at record levels. Estimated to reach up to £7 billion across GB by the end of the year, what action is required to meaningfully tackle the challenge for the benefit of financially vulnerable households, consumers and industry? Join this panel for a debate on the best route forward.

• Chair: James Mabey, Policy Analyst, National Energy Action
• Ofgem
• Emily Whitford, Senior Public Policy Advocate, StepChange
• Final speaker TBC

Getting heat pumps right: common failures and quality assurance

Heat pumps are set to play a prominent role in domestic heating. Join this practical session to learn more about the lived experience of low-income households with heat pumps, and the factors that determine whether installation succeeds or fails.

• Codrina Cretu, Senior Mission Manager, Nesta
• Matthew Jones, Project Coordinator (Energy), Bristol City Council

Interactive advice-focused workshop

An interactive workshop aimed at frontline and community-facing practitioners. More details to follow.

• Chair: Laura Beesley, Regional Development Manager, National Energy Action
• Facilitators: Rebecca Jones and Gareth Thomas, Project Development Co-ordinators, National Energy Action