House of Commons · Westminster Hall
18 June 2025 · 11 other contributors · 13,618 words
Opened by Josh Newbury Lab Cannock Chase
Responding minister: Michael Shanks
Summarised by AI from the official record, so it can contain mistakes.
Josh Newbury raised concerns about future of the gas grid in Westminster Hall. A government minister responded.
Key points
Key requests to Government
Calls for a substantial shift in cost barriers and clear focus on inequality in government policy. Suggests hybrid heat pump systems as an option to reduce gas demand while minimising impact on electricity grid.
MPs spoke in turn to share their views and ask questions. Here's what each person said.
Opened the debate
Gas accounts for 40% of UK's total energy consumption and is vital for flexibility in renewable generation. Eighty-three per cent of homes rely on mains gas, with 95% of households in Cannock Chase on the grid. Six thousand four hundred sixty households in his constituency live in fuel poverty. Heat pumps are costly and only partially covered by government schemes, leading to decarbonisation inequality.
Highlights the issue of decarbonisation inequality, noting that only 3% of boiler upgrade scheme grants went to Peterborough despite high fuel poverty rates. Acknowledged the importance of debates on energy security due to global uncertainties. Emphasised that UK's economy heavily relies on gas with over 30 large power stations, 24 million homes and half a million businesses connected. Advocated for clean power and government’s green ambition to create jobs and deliver long-term energy security.
Questions whether other technologies like heat batteries should be included in the boiler upgrade scheme and if current VAT situation is optimal.
Discusses the competitive pricing issue in Northern Ireland's gas market and mentions the success of biomethane injection at Granville Ecopark, emphasizing the potential for significant reductions in CO2 emissions.
Welcomes the debate and highlights Northern Ireland's commitment to net zero emissions by 2050, mentioning Phoenix Gas' biomethane case and its potential to cut carbon emissions while creating jobs. Stressed the importance of working together within the UK despite differences in constitutional views.
Rural communities are often disconnected from essential energy infrastructure, leading to higher heating costs and less economic opportunity. The lack of gas grid access contributes to a sense of isolation and vulnerability.
Asked about consultation on hydrogen blending in gas networks.
Agreed with the lead MP on the prohibitive cost of heat pumps and highlighted challenges faced by rural communities. Emphasised the importance of a national gas grid due to demand for gas, criticised the Climate Change Committee's proposal for no gas in heating homes.
Gas dependency is a strategic vulnerability due to the importation of half of UK's gas, highlighting risks during geopolitical instability such as the Ukraine invasion. Transitioning away from fossil fuels towards renewable energy can protect households and businesses from future price shocks.
Research suggests that transitioning to green gases could create up to 100,000 jobs by 2050. The gas grid is critical for over half a million businesses in the UK, supporting millions of workers. Responded to the hon. Gentleman's comments, noting that the gas network supplies not only Ireland but Belgium and part of the Netherlands.
Emphasised the importance of working together across the UK on skills and jobs.
Welcomes the debate and emphasizes its timeliness amid national security uncertainty and energy transition challenges. Emphasised the role of gas in industry, national security, and energy transition; discussed cost and feasibility of hybrid heating systems compared to heat pumps.
Government Response
Michael ShanksThe Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State for Energy Security and Net Zero
In response, the Minister congratulated the hon. Member on his speech and wished him a happy birthday. He acknowledged the importance of energy security but did not address specific concerns raised about gas usage or provide details on plans to support businesses affected by higher levies. The Government have set out to achieve a once-in-a-generation transition in our energy system through the spending review, investing £13 billion into our warm homes plan over the next five years. They secured development funding for the Acorn and Viking CCUS projects, supporting clean power ambition and creating jobs. The focus is on transforming the electricity system while also considering the future of the gas network. Natural gas is central to meeting current demands but must undergo a transformation towards net zero, phasing out coal and reducing emissions faster than any other major economy. The government recognises the importance of transitioning in a way that involves every community and supports job creation. Outlines the government's plans to decarbonise home heating through hydrogen economy and industrial decarbonisation strategy. Emphasises the role of carbon capture, usage and storage sector in creating jobs and reducing emissions. Discusses the Acorn project and its importance in achieving net zero targets.