Low-carbon Off-gas Grid Heating

Mr Whitehead acknowledged the debate's comprehensive discussion on off-grid properties and decarbonisation. He highlighted that approximately 1.1 million houses in England, 230,000 in Wales, and 550,000 in Scotland are off-grid and predominantly rely on high-carbon heating methods such as oil (78%), LPG (13%), and coal (9%). He emphasised the need for urgent decarbonisation due to the limited choices available to these properties. Additionally, he noted that 86% of off-grid homes in England are poorly insulated compared to their urban counterparts. Noted that support for heat pumps under the boiler upgrade scheme would be insufficient to replace all off-grid boilers, indicating the target of 600,000 heat pumps by 2028 will fail.

Mr. Lake supported the debate, emphasizing the need for a just and fair transition to decarbonisation in rural areas. He highlighted that off-grid households and businesses face significant cost challenges due to rising fuel prices and lack of government support. He cited examples from his constituency where energy bills had increased by up to 450%, impacting both profitability and operational sustainability. Mr. Lake also pointed out the inefficiency of older housing stock in rural areas, urging for greater focus on energy efficiency measures and financial support for retrofitting homes with low-carbon technologies. Inquired about the concern of farmers who have commercial electricity contracts for their homes and are worried about receiving the £400 payment. Questioned the effectiveness of the energy price cap for those not on the grid and suggested there might be anti-competitive practices in the heating oil market. Asked about support measures available for off-grid properties.

He expressed concern about the inadequate UK Government support for low-carbon heating and buildings, highlighting that only a maximum of 90,000 households are eligible. He mentioned 45% of Welsh households being in fuel poverty and raised affordability issues, particularly with businesses struggling to find funds for new technology due to increasing costs. Asked the Minister to support Ofgem involvement in regulating off-gas grid areas and questioned whether £8 per head spent on insulation in England compared with £27 per head in Scotland was adequate. Called UK government support inadequate, raised concerns about fuel poverty in Scotland. Asked about the boiler upgrade scheme's implementation and its impact on consumers.

Mr Smith discussed the high costs of installing heat pumps in older off-grid homes, noting costs ranging from £12,000 to £30,000. He emphasized the importance of having alternative low-carbon heating options such as drop-in fuels and renewable liquid gas for affordability and practicality. Asked about the transition timeline and mentioned parts of Kent with large numbers of off-gas-grid properties. Interested in hybrid systems for hard-to-treat properties.

Discussed the limited options for rural communities to switch to low-carbon heating and highlighted affordability concerns. Mentioned that the average cost of a heat pump installation in an off-gas grid home is £12,000. Emphasised the importance of addressing fuel poverty gaps between urban and rural areas. Recognised Northern Ireland's role in decarbonisation efforts, thanked the minister for frequent discussions on renewable energy opportunities.