Residential sector energy services in the UK: can legislation turn rhetoric into reality?

Panel: Panel 5: Energy Efficiency Markets & Financing Mechanisms

Authors:
Emma Jones, Impetus Consulting
Joanne Wade, Association for the Conservation of Energy
Dave Barton, Impetus Consulting

Abstract

The policy framework within which a market for energy services in the UK is expected to develop has changed significantly over the past year. In particular, for service providers targeting the residential sector, new legislation governing utilities and changes to local government powers will impact on available and desirable business options.

This paper considers the likely impacts of these policy developments, basing its findings on a review of the Energy Saving Trust's activities in the area conducted by the authors. The Trust has provided financial support since 1996 to pilot projects aimed at developing an energy services approach for small consumers. These projects have involved local authorities, other social housing providers, utilities and other private sector companies targeting both social housing tenants and owner-occupiers.

The paper reviews progress by these pilots, the barriers they have identified and the degree to which they are delivering full energy services (including fuel supply, provision of energy advice and supply and maintenance of energy efficiency measures and equipment). We consider whether present changes in policy will remove the barriers and encourage provision of a broad range of energy services.