Source · Select Committees · Business and Trade Committee
Recommendation 32
32
Paragraph: 139
Consumer engagement and awareness when it comes to the decarbonisation of domestic heat is low.
Conclusion
Consumer engagement and awareness when it comes to the decarbonisation of domestic heat is low. One of the greatest shortfalls of the Heat and Buildings Strategy is that it misses the opportunity to outline the Government’s plan to drive up consumers’ understanding of the importance of the transition to low carbon heating in homes. The Government’s commitment to “review and improve [its] communications” does not go far enough. We note that the Scottish Government has an independent advice body, Home Energy Scotland. If people are not aware that a change needs to be made in their home and for what purpose the change needs to be made, then the Government will fail to deliver low carbon domestic heat by 2050 through slower uptake and loss of public support.
Paragraph Reference:
139
Government Response
Not Addressed
HM Government
Not Addressed
The Government agrees with the Committee’s recognition that further action is needed to increase consumer awareness in this area, the key technologies and interventions involved, and the priority actions to take through a blend of Government-led and industry-led advice. Strengthening Net Zero communications and increasing awareness will help all sections of UK society to make greener choices. Progress has already been made to raise public awareness and interest – according to a recent survey, a significant proportion of people are concerned about climate change (85% of respondents to BEIS’ Public Attitudes Tracker – Autumn 2021). This has been supported by the ‘Together for our Planet’ campaign to build green momentum in the lead-up to COP26 alongside recent publications, strategies and media coverage. Work is underway to develop and test a strategy for climate change communications post-COP26. The Government is looking to enhance our communication channels to ensure that the public has access to the information and advice they need to make decisions that are right for them. Increased investment into the digital service, Simple Energy Advice, will help provide consumers with information and advice on home energy performance and low carbon heating. Energy suppliers currently provide the telephone number of the Simple Energy Advice phoneline to households on their energy bills.