The Climate Change Committee (CCC) has suggested that reducing electricity bills would encourage more people to adopt green technologies, such as heat pumps, in their homes. The CCC proposed shifting levies and charges on electricity to gas, providing a clearer benefit to those switching from gas boilers. The CCC believes that adopting such measures would help to cut CO2 emissions, a major cause of climate change. The UK is widely believed to be at risk of missing its vital 2030 climate target, which is viewed as a crucial step towards achieving net-zero emissions by 2050.
The CCC’s annual report indicates that only one-third of the actions, required to achieve the 2030 target, are supported by credible plans. The key actions include accelerating the use of renewable energy; the transition to electric vehicles; and the installation of more heat pumps to replace gas boilers. The CCC believes there should also be greater emphasis on tree planting and peatland restoration. The report also highlights the damaging impact of former Prime Minister Rishi Sunak’s carbon cutting plans.
Mr Sunak’s plan incorporates exemptions to the phase-out of new fossil fuel boilers, which are expected to apply to approximately 20% of homes. The CCC’s report suggests this will compromise the UK’s ability to achieve its targets. To increase the uptake of heat pumps, the CCC is urging the government to reduce electricity prices. Dr James Richardson, acting chief executive of the CCC, said that countries like France and the Netherlands were experiencing a sharp increase in heat pumps. He argued that the key to this was a blend of upfront support and balancing the relative prices of gas and electricity.
The CCC has also urged policymakers to reintroduce a former goal to end the sale of petrol and diesel vehicles by 2030. Some have suggested that Mr Sunak’s efforts to slow down the pace of net-zero transition have contributed to a loss of confidence in the UK’s industry. The CCC has also recommended increasing the number of electric vehicle charging points via alterations to planning. While the shift to electric cars is having a noticeable impact, electric vans represent only 6% of new sales
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