Mike Foster, Chief Executive of EUA said “We are pleased that Ofgem fully supports our manifesto call to extend the gas grid. It would have a major positive impact on many people's lives.

Currently fifteen per cent of the population, four million households across the UK are not connected to the gas grid and must rely on alternative sources of energy to heat their home. Many of these properties tend to be older properties with solid walls and in more rural areas, conditions which add to higher fuel bills.

Gas is cheaper than electricity and cleaner than coal, extending the gas grid would certainly help tackle both fuel poverty and help cut carbon emissions.”