BMF calls on Chancellor to ‘get the work done’ on energy efficiency
Coventry-based trade body The Builders Merchants Federation (BMF) has called for the UK Government to ‘get the work done’ to improve energy efficiency across the nation’s housing stock, after more than £12bn was pledged to help drive down emissions.
In a letter to the Chancellor ahead of the Spring Budget, BMF CEO John Newcomb called for a clear, unambiguous plan to deliver solutions that could cut household bills, improve cold, draughty homes and reduce carbon emissions.
Mr Newcomb also asked for the publication of work carried out by a government taskforce, which was set to advise on delivering a 15% cut in UK emissions by 2030, but was disbanded after just four meetings.
In his letter to the Rt Hon Jeremy Hunt MP, Mr Newcomb said: “In previous fiscal events, you and Mr Sunak increased spending on energy efficiency for homes, businesses and the public services by £6 billion from 2025 until 2028 – in addition to the previous £6.6bn previously announced. The BMF has not seen this spending fully materialised.
“The BMF ask is for HM Government to embark on a clear, unambiguous, long-term programme – backed by sufficient public and private funding – to get the work done.
“Underneath it should be a proper implementation plan that lays out how local authorities and other delivery partners will complete the necessary improvements that many homes urgently need.
“There are far too many homes without cavity wall, solid wall and loft insulation. This reinforces our view there is still significant work to do to fit various types of insulation that are inexpensive and simple to complete.”
The Energy Efficiency Taskforce under joint chairs Lord Callanan and Dame Alison Rose, was established by the Chancellor in the Autumn 2022 statement and held its first meeting in March last year.
The group was set to advise and work with ministers to deliver a 15% reduction in UK energy demand by 2030 with a particular focus on the role of the private sector and the stimulation of investment.
The group was disbanded in September 2023.
Mr Newcomb said: “Despite high hopes the Energy Efficiency Taskforce would make a difference, the BMF regrets this unfortunate curtailment. The work it conducted has not been published.
“We ask for their report to be made available to the construction industry’s National Retrofit Hub, so the evidence gathered, and its assessments and evaluations are not lost to those undertaking this vital work.”
