New inquiries: Protecting consumers this winter a priority as Energy Security and Net Zero Committee announces programme of work

• Energy Security and Net Zero Committee

The Committee has today launched its first four inquiries following last month’s engagement event with organisations and stakeholders from across the energy and environment sector:

1. Preparing for the winter – Examining the lessons from the high energy prices of last winter, the customer protections offered by Ofgem and legislation regarding pricing controls.
2. Heating our homes – Investigating the changes needed to deliver energy efficient homes across the UK, how the Government can support innovation and the affordability of the switch to decarbonised heating.
3. A flexible grid for the future – Looking at what needs to be done to ensure the UK has effective infrastructure to deliver capacity for the future and support the development of renewable energy sources.
4. Keeping the power on: our future energy technology mix – Exploring how the energy mix of the UK needs to change to deliver enough capacity while delivering against Net Zero targets.

Chair's comments

Angus Brendan MacNeil, Chair of the ESNZ Committee, said:

“The householders who struggled with the soaring price of heating and lighting their homes during the bitter weather last year must be at the forefront of policymakers’ thinking as we again approach the winter months. Our first inquiry will be looking at the lessons that can be learnt by the Government and Ofgem and will press to ensure that the right protections are in place for consumers this winter. The Committee will also be taking a wider look at how prepared the UK is for improving energy efficiency in homes and delivering new forms of power, as the Government seeks to meet its Net Zero targets.”

Further information

• About Parliament: Select committees
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Image: Tyler-Allicock / UK Parliament