Fuel poverty ought to be specifically mentioned in Section 7.6viii as an adverse impact of the Department’s constrained Capital allocation for Housing and Affordable Warmth.

We wish to stress again, that fuel poor households cannot end up being disproportionate sponsors of hitting the renewable electricity target. It is imperative that there is a fair distribution of the cost of decarbonisation with those on the lowest incomes protected.

It is our view that increased socialisation of network reinforcement costs could risk vulnerable and low-income households being disadvantaged and placed at a greater risk of fuel poverty.

National Energy Action hopes that the update to this strategy will result in alleviation of pressure on the most vulnerable consumers. To do this, the strategy will need to influence how suppliers, networks and Ofgem approach the identification and treatment of vulnerable consumers over the coming years.

Utility networks are responsible for ensuring that communities have access to safe and efficient utility (gas, electricity, water and communications) supplies. As the utility networks prepare for a challenging energy systems transition, a comprehensive and consistent approach to ensuring community resilience will be required to safeguard vulnerable individuals and communities.

NEA’s response to the Ofgem VCMA Governance Drafting Consultation. NEA is supportive of the vulnerability and carbon monoxide allowance for gas networks. We believe for the allowance to create best value, it should have sufficient focus on supporting vulnerable customers, both in the make up of project portfolios and through addressing carbon monoxide. Additionally, we believe that all delivery partners must meet licence obligations to treat customers fairly.