Committees

ESNZ Committee holds oral evidence session on supporting and protecting consumers

29 January 2024

The Energy Security and Net Zero Committee’s investigation into the changes needed to deliver energy efficient homes and how the Government can encourage the switch to decarbonised heating continues with a session examining how best to support and protect consumers.

The meeting will focus on tackling fuel poverty and health issues related to cold homes, how to enable innovation in the retail market, consumer protections and standards bodies, and the role of the financial sector.

During the first half of the meeting, witnesses from consumer support organisations are likely to be asked about the role of energy tariffs in supporting households, consumer protections and avenues for redress.

The second panel will focus on standards, with MPs likely to ask about the key factors underpinning consumer confidence, how to strengthen the provision of advice and what measures are in place to certify installations and accredit the workforce. There could also be a discussion on international best practice.

The Committee has previously taken evidence on the role of local government in the transition, the technological challenges that need to be overcome, and the effectiveness of the Government’s current and past support schemes.

Witnesses

Panel 1 at 10am

  • Jonathan Bean, Policy and Parliament Lead, Fuel Poverty Action
  • Zoe Guijarro, Principal Policy Manager, Citizens Advice
  • Charles Roe, Director of Mortgages, UK Finance

Panel 2 at 11am

  • Simon Bones, CEO and Founder, Genous
  • Dr Richard Hauxwell-Baldwin, Research and Campaigns Manager, MCS Foundation
  • Phil Mason, Head of Regulatory Engagement, TrustMark

Further information

Image credit: Tyler Allicock/UK Parliament