Consumer Energy Prices Scotland 2026-02-10
2026-02-10
Response quality
Questions & Answers
Q1
Direct Answer
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Context
The question arises from concerns about the Scottish energy market operating with surplus generation and transmission, unlike England's shortage. Energy UK predicts no meaningful reduction in energy bills until the 2030s.
What steps are being taken to help reduce consumer energy prices in Scotland? In light of the market surplus and predicted high costs, will the Minister recommit to Scottish energy bills being £300 lower in 2029 than in 2024?
Bills are coming down, and yes, I will recommit to that. The number of people in fuel poverty in Scotland will reduce by 9% and the number in extreme fuel poverty will reduce by 12.5% this April due to our policies.
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Assessment & feedback
Response accuracy
Q2
Direct Answer
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Context
The question addresses the disparity between Scotland's surplus in energy generation and transmission compared to England's shortage, impacting overall costs.
Given that the energy market in Scotland operates with surplus generation and transmission, while England faces shortages leading to higher costs for Scottish consumers subsidizing English consumers, will the Minister recommit—just before the Scottish elections—to energy bills in Scotland being £300 lower in 2029 than in 2024?
Bills are coming down, and yes, I will recommit to that. The number of people in fuel poverty in Scotland will reduce by 9% and the number in extreme fuel poverty will reduce by 12.5% this April due to our policies.
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Assessment & feedback
Response accuracy
Q3
Partial Answer
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Context
The local power plan is expected to be read in the constituency known as the heart of the Atlantic, where communities are involved in wind energy. There's a need for priority support from Ofgem, grid operators, and the Government.
Welcoming the publication of the local power plan, I note that communities in my constituency are engaged with wind energy wealth. To expand community energy, we must connect to the grid. The tailored support for communities mentioned is welcome, but there needs to be priority support from Ofgem, grid operators, and this Government.
My hon. Friend is a real champion for local community power in Na h-Eileanan an Iar. My hon. Friend the Minister for Energy will address this matter soon during his visit to the Western Isles.
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Assessment & feedback
priority support from Ofgem, grid operators, and the Government
My Hon. Friend The Minister For Energy Will Address This
Response accuracy