Industry gave a mixed response to a Spending Review that saw a further down grading of energy efficiency policy, the continuation of the Renewable Heat Incentive, and new money for construction of a sizeable number of new homes.

Responding to the Spending Review and Autumn Statemen, Dave Sowden, Chief Executive of the SEA, said:

“It could have been worse. Having done a phone-round of a number of our senior members, there is a sigh of relief in some sectors, grounds for optimism in others, and despondency elsewhere.”

“On household energy efficiency, today represents a considerable watering down of energy efficiency policy. Whilst the Government has properly paid attention to limiting the impact on fuel bills, it has missed an opportunity to declare Energy Efficiency as a National Infrastructure Priority, scale up ambition in this area and consider routes for funding other than on energy bills. This is a missed opportunity for millions of families to be permanently better off.”

“On Heating, we broadly welcome the package of measures announced today. In particular the uncertainty surrounding the RHI’s continuation has been removed, and the measures announced for heat networks are to be welcomed”

“On New Build, we are pleased that the Chancellor has committed additional public money to a new wave of house-building, but it is important these homes are built to as standard that minimises their energy usage. To do otherwise not only results in more wasted energy and money in the long-term, it also creates a future need for retrofit”.

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