There are three main asks, which will; facilitate the Government to achieve carbon emission reductions, in line with the legally binding fifth budget, address the fuel poverty which over 2.5 million houses in England face, and ensure domestic, and industrial, energy efficiency is realised.

• Invest in infrastructure for natural gas buses & HGVs

 With around 40,000 deaths a year attributable to exposure to outdoor air pollution the government must tackle the burgeoning issue of vehicular pollutants and challenge its narrow focus on electric vehicles, recognising that natural gas provides a viable alternative to diesel. By supporting local authorities and investing in infrastructure, natural gas vehicle usage can become widespread. Varying tax bands should be introduced based on technology or measurements of emissions, serving to encourage the take up of clean vehicles.

• Tackle the issue of the 9 million ‘zombie boilers’ in UK homes to decarbonise heat & reduce fuel poverty
• Allocate funds to tackle endemic fuel poverty

Cold homes have a higher mortality rate than road traffic accidents. Earmarking funds to connect more households to the gas grid, paying the winter fuel allowance in summer so households can benefits from cheaper LPG prices and boiler maintenance when demand is lower, and prioritising boiler replacement under ECO would all serve to ameliorate the situation of the fuel poor.

Mike Foster, Chief Executive of the Energy and Utilities Alliance said:

‘So far, there has been a distinct lack of coherent environmental and energy strategy from this government and the Autumn Budget provides them with an opportunity to present a clear vision as to how we will meet the fifth carbon budget and reduce fuel poverty in the UK.’

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