News from 2023
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- December 2023
SSEN offers £30 per person per day compensation during Storm Gerrit outages
SSEN Distribution has confirmed that customers left without power for more than 12 hours by Storm Gerrit can claim £30 per person per day for food and drink, as around 16,000 properties remained off supply.
Storm Gerrit damages SSEN network in north of Scotland
Storm Gerrit damaged SSEN's network across the north of Scotland on 27 December 2023, leaving just over 16,000 properties off supply by 9.45pm and some rural homes without power until Friday.
Scottish Government publishes update to Building Standards Technical Handbook implementing New Build Heat Standard
The Scottish Government has published a Building Standards Technical Handbook update implementing the New Build Heat Standard, banning gas and oil boilers in new homes from April 2024 but leaving the notional house specification unchanged.
Amendments to Class A made by the Town and Country Planning (General Permitted Development etc.) (England) (Amendment) (No. 2) Order 2023 (S.I. 2023/1279) come into force
Amendments to Class A permitted development rights for solar equipment on domestic premises in England came into force on 21 December 2023, clarifying roof slope references and adding a prior approval requirement for flat roofs on article 2(3) land.
New permitted development rights for solar panels take effect in England
Amended permitted development rights for solar panels in England took effect on 21 December 2023, widening what can be installed without full planning permission.
Scottish Fuel Poverty Advisory Panel notes planned closure of Fuel Insecurity Fund in 2024/25 Budget
The Scottish Fuel Poverty Advisory Panel has told ministers it is extremely disappointed by plans to close the Fuel Insecurity Fund and cut housing and buildings budgets from April 2024.
Aereco announces new MVHR range
Aereco has announced a new mechanical ventilation with heat recovery range, led by the InspirAIR Top Premium unit, which the company says carries Passiv Haus certification and recognition in the PCDB database.
SSEN partners with YES Energy Solutions to offer free energy saving advice line
SSEN customers in the north of Scotland and central southern England can use the YES Advice Line for free energy efficiency advice, funding applications and benefit checks.
£6 billion allocated to energy efficiency and low-carbon heating schemes
The government has allocated £6 billion of capital funding for 2025 to 2028 across energy efficiency and low-carbon heating schemes, including a new £400 million grant for households in England.
Extra £1.5 billion for Boiler Upgrade Scheme announced
The government has allocated an extra £1.5 billion to the Boiler Upgrade Scheme for 2025 to 2028, part of a £6 billion package for energy efficiency and low carbon heating.
Government announces £6bn allocation for energy efficiency and home upgrades
The government has allocated £6bn for energy efficiency and home upgrades, a sum the National Energy Action charity welcomed for low-income households but called small against the scale of fuel poverty.
UK government announces details of £6bn home decarbonisation funding for 2025 to 2028
The UK government has set out how £6bn for decarbonising homes between 2025 and 2028 will be spent, including extra money for low-income households and social housing.
Heat network zoning consultation first published
The government has published its response to the 2023 consultation on heat network zoning in England, which drew 156 replies and set out where networks should be the lowest-cost route to decarbonised heat.
RECC reports Government extension of VAT relief on energy saving materials
The Renewable Energy Consumer Code has reported that VAT relief on energy saving materials will be expanded from 1 February 2024 to cover battery storage, water-source heat pumps and diverters.
SSEN Distribution moves to Weather Warning status ahead of forecast high winds
SSEN Distribution moved to Weather Warning status on 18 December 2023 ahead of strong winds forecast across northern Scotland, activating contingency plans and additional teams.
Ofgem consults on making no wholesale cost adjustment to the price cap for October 2022 to September 2023
Ofgem has proposed making no adjustment to the energy price cap for wholesale costs incurred between October 2022 and September 2023, with responses to its consultation due by 17 January 2024.
Ofgem consults on one-off £16 price cap adjustment to recover bad debt costs
Ofgem has opened a consultation on a one-off £16 price cap adjustment, paid between April 2024 and March 2025, to let suppliers recover bad debt costs, with prepayment meter customers excluded.
Ofgem decides not to adjust price cap for Winter 22/23 wholesale variances
Ofgem has decided not to adjust the energy price cap for wholesale cost variances over Winter 22/23, and is consulting on a one-off £16 adjustment to cover bad debt.
British Gas Energy Trust launches White Goods Fund for England and Wales
The British Gas Energy Trust has opened a White Goods Fund giving refrigerators, freezers, electric cookers and washing machines to clients in or facing fuel poverty in England and Wales.
New consumer standards licence conditions take effect
Ofgem's new consumer standards licence conditions for energy suppliers took effect on 14 December 2023, covering contact ease, support for customers struggling to pay and publication of customer service ratings.
Ofgem consumer standards come into effect
Ofgem's strengthened consumer standards took effect on 14 December 2023, requiring suppliers to offer debt repayment plans and consider repayment holidays, as energy debt reached almost £3 billion.
Ofgem implements new consumer contact and customer service rules
Ofgem's new rules on contacting suppliers, support for customers in difficulty and publishing customer service performance took effect on 14 December 2023, after the fieldwork for its latest satisfaction survey.
Energy Systems Catapult report finds EPCs undermining decarbonisation efforts
Energy Systems Catapult has published a report arguing that domestic Energy Performance Certificates should be reformed, proposing three new metrics and Digital Building Passports to align the system with Net Zero.
Future Homes and Buildings Standards consultation page first published
The government published its consultation on the Future Homes and Buildings Standards on 13 December 2023, proposing Building Regulations changes for new homes in England from 2025.
Government consults on Future Homes and Buildings Standards with solar PV in one of two options for new homes
The government has opened a consultation on the Future Homes and Buildings Standards, setting out two options for new homes in England and recommending solar panels on new non-domestic buildings.
Government opens consultation into the Future Homes and Buildings Standard
The Government has opened a consultation on the Future Homes and Buildings Standard, the rules that will govern how homes built after 2025 are constructed and powered.
Written Ministerial Statement WMS23 published
A written ministerial statement published on 13 December 2023 has left local planning authorities unclear on whether they can set sustainability standards for new homes above national regulations.
CREDS article reports fall in gas central heating use during winter 2022/23 cost-of-living crisis
A CREDS blog reports that gas central heating fell as the main heating method from 78% of households in winter 2021 to 57% in winter 2022, with households turning to warm clothes, blankets and hot drinks.
Viessmann adds 35 kW model to Vitodens 050-W combi range
Viessmann has added a 35 kW model to its Vitodens 050-W combi boiler range, extending domestic hot water output to 35 kW and heating output to 32 kW.
Additional £1.5 billion announced for Boiler Upgrade Scheme until 2028
An extra £1.5 billion has been allocated to the Boiler Upgrade Scheme until 2028, funding around 200,000 further vouchers for homeowners in England and Wales.
Government confirms VAT relief expansion for battery storage, water-source heat pumps and diverters
The government has confirmed that electrical battery storage, water-source heat pumps and diverters will qualify for zero-rate VAT relief on installation from 1 February 2024 across the United Kingdom.
Outcome published: VAT energy saving materials relief to be expanded
HMRC has published the outcome of its call for evidence on VAT relief for energy saving materials, confirming an expanded zero rate from 1 February 2024 and a list of newly qualifying technologies.
Summary of responses to VAT energy-saving materials Call for Evidence published
The government published its summary of responses to the Call for Evidence on VAT relief for energy-saving materials on 11 December 2023, drawing 125 responses and setting out reforms that took effect on 1 February 2024.
ECIU publishes analysis of impact of scrapping MEES on renters in marginal seats
ECIU analysis says scrapping planned Minimum Energy Efficiency Standards could leave around 2.8m privately rented homes without improvements, with renters in marginal seats facing £40m a year in extra bills.
Scottish Government publishes easy read consultation on Heat in Buildings Bill
The Scottish Government has published an easy read version of its Heat in Buildings Bill consultation, setting out proposed dates for ending polluting heating and for minimum energy efficiency standards.
Sunsynk Mobile launches Lifelynk Series in the UK
Sunsynk Mobile has launched the Lifelynk Series, an all-in-one plug and play solar battery storage system in three sizes, which the maker calls its most affordable UK offering.
Aereco launches new MVHR range
Aereco has added a new mechanical ventilation with heat recovery range to its UK product line, announced on its homepage alongside its existing demand controlled ventilation systems.
Around 29 million smart meters fitted in UK homes
A consumer guide reports that around 29 million smart meters had been fitted to UK homes by the end of 2023, about 54 per cent of all homes.
Deadline for suppliers to enrol or replace first-generation smart meters
Energy suppliers must enrol first-generation smart meters onto the national communications network, or replace them with second-generation meters, by the end of 2023.
Future Homes and Buildings Standards consultation published
The government has published its response to the 2023 Future Homes and Buildings Standards consultation, confirming new energy efficiency rules for new homes in England from March 2027.
UK Government increased BUS grant funding level
The UK Government raised the level of grant funding available through the Boiler Upgrade Scheme in December 2023, taking the heat pump grant to £7,500.
Hydrogen levy changed to apply to gas shippers rather than energy suppliers
The planned hydrogen levy on household gas bills has been moved onto gas shippers rather than energy suppliers, after the original proposal drew a backlash, according to a Nesta report on energy levies.
Legislation changes give powers to fine excessive smoke from wood burners
A West Yorkshire homeowner has been fined £175 for excessive smoke from a wood-burning stove, the first fixed penalty issued under powers introduced in December 2023.
Mitsubishi Electric launches Ecodan R290 heat pump at COP28
Mitsubishi Electric launched the Ecodan R290 heat pump, built in Livingston, Scotland, as COP28 delegates gathered, using a refrigerant with a global warming potential of three.
Octopus acquired Shell Energy
Octopus Energy completed its acquisition of Shell Energy's UK household supply business on 1 December 2023, ending Shell's presence in the domestic market and shifting its customers to Octopus.
Octopus Electroverse launches Plunge Pricing
Octopus Electroverse launched Plunge Pricing at the end of 2023, cutting public charging prices during periods of high energy supply, with discounts that vary by event and operator.
Octopus Energy completes takeover of Shell Energy Retail
Ofgem has published supplier level satisfaction findings showing Octopus Energy at 84 per cent overall satisfaction, with Shell Energy Retail recorded separately because the survey predates its takeover.
Octopus overtakes British Gas as largest electricity supplier
Octopus Energy became the UK's largest electricity supplier in late 2023, overtaking British Gas after completing its purchase of Shell Energy's household customers.
Ofgem consulted on a wholesale cost adjustment to the price cap and technical changes to the Annex 2 model
Ofgem has set out minded-to positions on whether to adjust the energy price cap for wholesale costs incurred between October 2022 and September 2023, alongside proposed technical changes to its Annex 2 model.
Ofgem consumer service standards reforms took effect
Ofgem's consumer service standards reforms took effect in December 2023, one of six Tariff Watch recommendations campaigners say have been implemented while nine others remain unaddressed.
Petitions with over 800,000 signatures handed to the Prime Minister on energy bills and cold homes
Petitions carrying more than 800,000 signatures have been handed to the Prime Minister, as new figures show 8.3 million UK adults living in cold damp homes this winter.
Energy Bills and the Price CapRules and RegulationYour Type of Home
UK public EV charging network grew 45% year on year
The UK had 53,906 public EV charging stations across 31,056 locations as of December 2023, a 45% rise on December 2022, according to figures published by an installer.
Release 1 of the Open Balancing Platform went live
The first release of the Open Balancing Platform went live in December 2023, part of the Electricity System Operator's work to cut the cost of balancing the grid.
Revised National Planning Policy Framework published with new energy efficiency policy
A revised National Planning Policy Framework published in December 2023 tells local planning authorities to give significant weight to supporting energy efficiency and low carbon heating improvements to existing buildings.
ScottishPower launches in-app advanced credit requests for smart PPMs
ScottishPower introduced a feature in December 2023 letting customers request advanced credit for smart prepayment meters through its app, an example of supplier good practice cited by Energy UK.
UKGBC responds to Future Homes and Buildings Standard consultation urging higher standards
UKGBC and its members have responded to the government's Future Homes and Buildings Standard consultation, arguing its options are not genuinely future and proposing a higher standard.
Version 2.4 of the BUS property owner guidance issued
Ofgem has issued version 2.4 of its Boiler Upgrade Scheme guidance for property owners, adding paragraphs on new digital cancel and re-apply and file upload features.
Warm Home Discount scheme confirmed to run until at least March 2026
The government has confirmed the Warm Home Discount will run until at least March 2026, a further three winters, and more suppliers must now take part in the £150 scheme.
Warm Home Discount scheme extended to smaller energy suppliers
The customer threshold for compulsory participation in the Warm Home Discount has been cut from 50,000 to 1,000, bringing smaller energy suppliers into the scheme from this winter.
White Goods Scheme launched as a pilot in England and Wales
The British Gas Energy Trust has reported that its White Goods Scheme, piloted in England and Wales from December 2023, has supported an estimated 19,435 people across Britain.
Zero rating for BESS installation announced in December 2023
VAT on domestic battery energy storage systems was cut to zero from 1 February 2024, following a December 2023 announcement and a campaign by Solar Energy UK and parliamentarians.
- November 2023
Boiler Upgrade Scheme applications tripled after grant increased to £7,500
Applications to the Boiler Upgrade Scheme reached 1,150 in the first week after the grant rose to £7,500, more than three times the previous weekly average, the government said on 30 November 2023.
Consultation planned on permitted development rights for heat pumps in England
The government has confirmed it will consult on new permitted development rights to end the blanket one metre boundary restriction on heat pumps in England, alongside figures showing Boiler Upgrade Scheme applications tripled after the grant rose to £7,500.
Contact Solar Black Friday solar panel sale ends
Contact Solar's Black Friday solar panel promotion, offering up to £1,000 off solar PV systems and other discounts, closed on 30 November 2023 after running through the month.
Government announces amendments to permitted development rights for solar panels
Amendments to permitted development rights announced on 30 November 2023 widen where solar panels can be installed in England without full planning permission, including domestic flat roofs and larger commercial arrays.
Government confirms Clean Heat Market Mechanism plans
The government has confirmed a Clean Heat Market Mechanism for launch in 2025 and reported that Boiler Upgrade Scheme applications tripled after the grant rose to £7,500.
UK Government heat pump noise research findings published
Research into air source heat pump noise emissions was published on 30 November 2023, prompting a consultation on changes to the MCS-020 noise assessment standard.
MCS opens consultation on MCS 020 planning standard
MCS has opened a consultation on its MCS 020 planning standard for air source heat pumps, proposing changes to solid barrier definitions, background noise assumptions and location guidance, with comments due by 26 January 2024.
New permitted development rights announced for rooftop solar
The government has announced changes to permitted development rights so that more homes and businesses can install rooftop solar panels without planning permission, including flat roofs and industrial sites.
Which? publishes Priority Places for Insulation Index mapping UK insulation need
Which? has published an interactive index ranking UK local areas by home insulation need, fuel poverty and the availability of insulation installers, with 13.3 million households estimated to need loft insulation.
Bristol City Council publishes V.3.1 Statement of Intent for ECO4 and Great British Insulation Scheme Flex
Bristol City Council has published version 3.1 of its flexible eligibility Statement of Intent for ECO4 and the Great British Insulation Scheme, setting out four routes and seven proxies for identifying eligible households.
Heat Pump Association releases landmark heat pump deployment report
The Heat Pump Association has published a report setting out policy recommendations to speed up heat pump adoption in the UK, citing efficiency and emissions figures and the 600,000-a-year installation ambition.
Heat in Buildings Bill consultation opens
The Scottish Government has opened a consultation on proposals for a Heat in Buildings Bill, setting out plans to regulate the heating systems and energy efficiency of homes and other buildings.
SSEN completes £3.9 million Netley Common network upgrade
SSEN has completed a £3.9 million rebuild of the Netley Common electricity network near Southampton, begun in December 2021, with a further £3 million project proposed for early 2025.
Mixergy announces Heat Pump Interface v2
Mixergy has announced version two of its heat pump interface, which it says improves integration between its hot water cylinders and heat pumps and simplifies installation by using the heat pump's existing thermal probe.
Myenergi warranty v2.0 applies to products purchased from 24 November 2023
Myenergi has published warranty version 2.0 covering zappi, zappi Pedestal, eddi, harvi, hub and libbi products bought on or after 24 November 2023, with periods from 12 months to 10 years.
Prepayment meter regional rates for January to March 2024 added
The government has published Energy Price Guarantee regional unit rates and standing charges for prepayment meters covering January to March 2024, the final quarter of the scheme.
Energy Bill Support Scheme ends
The government's £400 Energy Bill Support Scheme has ended, with analysis published the same day finding poorly insulated homes will pay over £400 more to heat than homes at the government's efficiency target.
Grants and SchemesEnergy Bills and the Price CapRules and Regulation
Government announced consultation on removing the one metre boundary requirement for air source heat pumps
The government said at the Autumn Statement on 23 November 2023 that it would consult on removing the one metre boundary rule for air source heat pumps under permitted development rights.
UK Government announces consultation on changing Permitted Development Rights in England
The UK Government will consult on changing Permitted Development Rights in England, including removing the one metre boundary rule for air source heat pumps, under plans announced at the Autumn Statement.
Ofgem to announce January 2024 unit rates
Which? has said its published appliance running costs will be updated once Ofgem announces January 2024 unit rates, with those rates and the running costs expected to rise.
Ofgem publishes updated default tariff cap levels for 1 January to 31 March 2024
Ofgem has set the default tariff cap for 1 January to 31 March 2024, raising the dual fuel direct debit level to £1,928, a 5% increase on the previous quarter.
Statutory Consultation on levelling standing charges published
Ofgem has published a statutory consultation to level standing charges so prepayment and direct debit customers pay the same daily charge, alongside a price cap rise of 5% from January 2024.
BEAMA publishes briefing on delivering smart meters
BEAMA has published a briefing on delivering smart meters, setting out recommendations for government and suppliers on the rollout, flexible pricing and consumer trust.
BEAMA publishes Delivering low carbon heat policy document
BEAMA has published a policy document arguing that electrified heating, smart controls, insulation and reform of electricity costs are needed to decarbonise the UK's 28 million homes.
Green Heat Finance Taskforce publishes part 1 report
The independent Green Heat Finance Taskforce has published part one of its report, setting out finance options for Scottish property owners to cover the upfront cost of replacing polluting heating with clean heat.
MCS reported planned Benchmark Online and MID integration
MCS has reported that Benchmark Online and the MCS Installations Database will be integrated, giving heat pump installers a single point of data entry for commissioning and certification.
Mixergy announces the Cube X cylinder
Mixergy has announced the Cube X, a compact smart cylinder for heating and hot water that the company says will need no G3 unvented certification and is due to arrive soon.
GGF reports 98% of homes losing energy through underperforming windows
The Glass and Glazing Federation says 98 per cent of UK homes are losing energy through underperforming windows, in research published on its environmental hub.
GGF reports 98% of UK windows would fail current standards if installed today
The Glass and Glazing Federation says 98 per cent of UK windows would fail current standards if installed today, and puts the annual saving from replacing pre-2002 windows at up to £4.1 billion.
Alpha launches ProTec NX high output boiler range
Alpha has launched the ProTec NX, a wall-hung high output gas boiler range in six models from 48kW to 180kW, replacing its former ProTec Plus range for larger homes and commercial premises.
Citizens Advice published its response to the Ofgem consultation on an additional debt allowance
Citizens Advice has told Ofgem that its consultation on an extra debt allowance in the retail price cap does not show that current funding for debt-related costs is inadequate.
Rules and RegulationEnergy SuppliersEnergy Bills and the Price Cap
Navien UK introduces Combi Crossover boiler type
Navien UK has introduced the Combi Crossover, a boiler it describes as combining system boiler performance with the cylinder-less advantages of a compact combi, set out in its November 2023 boiler guidance.
Consumer Scotland publishes briefing on winter energy bill support options ahead of the Autumn Statement
Consumer Scotland has published a briefing on options for targeted winter energy bill support, arguing for help through the prepayment meter Energy Price Guarantee and setting out drawbacks of the Warm Home Discount in Scotland.
Scotland, Wales and Northern IrelandEnergy SuppliersGrants and Schemes
Which? launches priority places for insulation index and calls for insulation support for vulnerable households
Which? has published an index scoring all 650 UK constituencies for insulation need and called on the government to ensure support reaches fuel poor and vulnerable households.
EDF completes acquisition of heat pump installer CB Heating
EDF has completed its acquisition of air source heat pump installer CB Heating, following a 2022 strategic investment, saying it will cut customer journey times and train more installers.
Mitsubishi Electric launches Ecodan R290 heat pump
Mitsubishi Electric has launched the Ecodan R290 heat pump, a propane-refrigerant model built at its Livingston factory in Scotland and announced on 13 November 2023.
Which? warns cheap appliances can carry high running costs
Which? has published test-based annual running costs showing that some low-priced appliances, including a £7 kettle costing £50.74 a year to run, can cost more to run than the average model.
Energy IndependenceEnergy Bills and the Price CapWhere to Start
Good Energy launches Power Pause demand flexibility scheme
Good Energy has joined National Grid's Demand Flexibility Service for winter 2023, inviting eligible smart meter customers to register for its Power Pause scheme and earn bill credit for cutting peak-time electricity use.
Ofgem prepayment installation rules become licence conditions
Ofgem's Code of Practice on involuntary prepayment meter installation became a mandatory supply licence condition on 8 November 2023, extending protections to more households and covering remote smart meter switches.
Hypervolt releases V5 mobile app in full
Hypervolt has fully released version 5 of its mobile app, a ground-up rewrite adding a redesigned interface, home generation estimates, dark mode and a new Bluetooth stack.
MCS announces Data Dashboard Phase 2 for early 2024
MCS has announced a second phase of its Data Dashboard for early 2024, adding contractor numbers, battery storage uptake and month-by-month timelines to the free public platform.
OVO and Hypervolt announce home charging partnership
Hypervolt chargers are now offered through OVO's turnkey EV charging service, with the Charge Anytime rate of 7p/kWh available now and full integration planned for spring 2024.
Measure grading updated: battery storage and solar PV moved to A, charity exemption added
Delivery guidance for the Home Upgrade Grant was updated on 6 November 2023, moving battery storage and solar PV to grade A and exempting charities from the private rented sector four-property cap.
No repeat of universal £400 energy payment this winter
The UK Energy Research Centre says no repeat of last winter's universal £400 payment has been promised, with the price cap at £1,834 until 31 December.
Ofgem price cap set at £1,834 for winter 2023/24
Ofgem's price cap for a typical direct debit household stands at £1,834 a year until 31 December 2023, with the next level set from 1 January 2024.
Energy Bills and the Price CapStatisticsRules and Regulation
SSEN restores power to almost 25,000 customers after Storm Ciarán
SSEN restored power to almost 25,000 customers in central southern England after Storm Ciarán, with around 2,000 still off supply at noon on 2 November 2023 and the network at Yellow Alert.
Beta launch of Get a Heat Pump website
Nesta launched a beta version of the Get a Heat Pump website in November 2023 to test the tool with real users, and later worked with The MCS Foundation to develop it further.
Campaigners call on Chancellor for Emergency Energy Tariff and Help To Repay scheme
Health, poverty, housing and environmental organisations and academics have written to Chancellor Jeremy Hunt urging an Emergency Energy Tariff and a Help To Repay scheme for households in energy debt.
Changes to solar permitted development rights introduced
The government changed solar permitted development rights in November 2023, following a February 2023 consultation, as part of a wider package on adapting historic homes for energy efficiency.
Coalition writes to Secretary of State urging leadership on prepayment meters scandal
The End Fuel Poverty Coalition has written to Energy Secretary Claire Coutinho urging a legislative ban on forced prepayment meters, an extension of Ofgem's ban to April 2024 and heightened monitoring of Scottish Power.
Rules and RegulationSmart MetersEnergy Bills and the Price Cap
Cold Weather Payment scheme for 2023 to 2024 opens
The Cold Weather Payment scheme for 2023 to 2024 opened in November 2023, paying £25 for each seven-day period of very cold weather in England and Wales until 31 March 2024.
New design standard for domestic connections comes into effect in Northern Ireland
NIE Networks has brought in a new design standard for domestic connections in Northern Ireland from 1 November 2023, allowing new connections to support higher capacity for heat pumps and electric vehicle chargers.
Emergency Energy Tariff proposals presented to Government
Proposals for an Emergency Energy Tariff, using the Energy Price Guarantee mechanism, were presented to Government to ease the energy bills crisis in winter 2023/24.
Energy UK publishes analysis on cost of heat market inertia
Energy UK analysis published on 1 November 2023 finds that a two-year delay to heat pump rollout would mean 2.9 million fewer heat pumps by 2030 and £3 billion more gas imports between 2026 and 2030.
F-rated products being removed from market under new EU regulations
Hisense has confirmed that F-rated appliances are being withdrawn from the market under new EU rules, with its RB327N4WW1 fridge freezer to be replaced by an E-rated model.
Forced prepayment meter moratorium lifted for compliant suppliers
The moratorium on forced prepayment meter installations, introduced in February 2023, was lifted from November 2023 for suppliers that met Ofgem's restart criteria.
Rules and RegulationEnergy Bills and the Price CapSmart Meters
Good Energy Default tariff rates change for non Direct Debit customers
Good Energy has ended the Direct Debit discount for non Direct Debit customers on its Default tariff from 1 November 2023, raising rates for those paying by other methods.
Government declines Emergency Energy Tariff and help to repay schemes in Autumn Statement
The Chancellor's Autumn Statement declined charity proposals for an Emergency Energy Tariff and ruled out a help to repay scheme, as Ofgem confirmed a 5% January price cap rise.
Energy Bills and the Price CapRules and RegulationGrants and Schemes
Green Heat Finance Taskforce report published
The Green Heat Finance Taskforce published its first report in November 2023, setting out finance products intended to spread the upfront cost of heat and energy efficiency work in Scottish buildings.
Hypervolt app v5 released in November 2023
Hypervolt has begun releasing version 5.1 of its charger app, an update that follows the version 5 release in November 2023 and adds direct report downloads and in-app troubleshooting.
Independent review of ASHP noise emissions published
An independent review of air source heat pump noise emissions, published by the Department for Energy Security and Net Zero in November 2023, proposed changes to the domestic permitted development right that were later taken forward in a 2025 planning order for England.
Low Carbon Hub publishes low-cost, no-cost energy saving leaflet
Low Carbon Hub has published a free downloadable leaflet of low-cost and no-cost energy saving measures for households, dated November 2023, covering draught-proofing, insulation, appliance use and heating controls.
National Grid prepares for Storm Ciarán in South West England and South Wales
National Grid has put standby staff, extra contact centre operatives and helicopters on readiness ahead of Storm Ciarán, which is forecast to bring gusts of up to 85mph to exposed coasts of South West England and South Wales.
Ofgem to decide restarts supplier by supplier
Ofgem has confirmed it will decide supplier by supplier when new licence conditions on involuntary prepayment meter installations have been met and firms are ready to restart.
Ofgem launched a 'call for input' on standing charges
Ofgem opened a call for input on standing charges in November 2023, asking for views on the daily fees and possible alternatives, with responses accepted until January 2024.
Ofgem publishes Call For Input on consumer consent
Ofgem has published a Call For Input on consumer consent for energy data sharing, setting out three design options and citing 87% respondent support for intervention.
Ofgem publishes statutory consultation on levelling standing charges
Ofgem has published a statutory consultation proposing to level standing charges between prepayment and direct debit customers, cutting bills for prepayment households by around £50 a year.
Passiv UK launches Greener Grid Payments for heat pump customers
Passiv UK has launched Greener Grid Payments, an automated service that pays its heat pump control customers for cutting power at peak times under the National Grid ESO Demand Flexibility Service.
Petroineos announces closure of Grangemouth oil refinery
Petroineos announced in November 2023 that it would close the Grangemouth oil refinery, and the company completed the closure in 2025, according to the Climate Change Committee.
Powercast launches to all ev.energy users in UK Power Networks region
Powercast, a power cut notification service built by ev.energy with UK Power Networks, became available to all ev.energy users in London, the South East and East of England in November 2023.
New prepayment meter rules extend protections for vulnerable people
Ofgem, Energy UK and the government set out new rules suppliers should follow from November 2023, adding checks before any involuntary prepayment meter installation.
Rules and RegulationEnergy Bills and the Price CapSmart Meters
Scottish government delays fossil fuel boiler phase-out by at least three years
The Scottish government has postponed the start of its phase-out of fossil fuel boilers by at least three years, announcing the change alongside a consultation on a new heating bill.
Rules and RegulationScotland, Wales and Northern IrelandBoilers and Heating
ScottishPower launches Power Saver app with equiwatt
ScottishPower partnered with equiwatt to launch the Power Saver app in November 2023, an app that rewards households for shifting electricity use away from peak times.
Strengthened PPM rules come into force
Ofgem's strengthened rules on involuntary prepayment meter installations took effect in November 2023, with suppliers required to pass independent audits before restarting activity in January 2024.
Survey finds 29% of UK population experiences mould at home
Research for the Warm This Winter campaign found 29% of UK adults, about 15.4 million people, experience mould at home frequently or occasionally, with 10% affected frequently.
Warm Homes Network pilot launches in Cumbria
A fuel poverty initiative bringing utilities, charities, councils and technology firms together began a Cumbria pilot in November 2023, supporting up to 100 vulnerable households, after an earlier Birmingham pilot.
- October 2023
Safestyle enters administration and FENSA suspends its approval
Safestyle announced on 30 October 2023 that it had gone into administration, and FENSA suspended the firm as a FENSA Approved Installer the same day.
SSEN Distribution moves to Weather Warning status ahead of Storm Ciarán
SSEN Distribution moved to Weather Warning status on 30 October 2023 and then to Yellow Alert on 31 October, standing up extra teams ahead of Storm Ciarán's forecast 70mph coastal gusts.
Utilita Power Payback service starts
Utilita told customers its Power Payback service would begin on 30 October 2023, paying them for cutting electricity use during notified events.
Ofgem accepts remedial actions offered by CES and CESS
Ofgem has accepted remedial actions from Community Energy Scheme UK and Community Energy Scheme Stoke over sales practices, contracts and billing, and has now closed its investigation.
Scottish Government publishes Heat in Buildings progress report 2023
The Scottish Government's 2023 Heat in Buildings progress report records £170 million of capital investment through delivery schemes and confirms a consultation on a Heat in Buildings Bill.
Boiler Upgrade Scheme extended by 3 years to 2028
The Boiler Upgrade Scheme will pay £7,500 towards a heat pump from today and now runs to 2028, three years longer than planned, the government has announced.
Octopus Energy launches Octoplus rewards scheme
Octopus Energy has launched Octoplus, a rewards scheme that lets eligible smart meter customers earn Octopoints through demand flexibility and account activity and redeem them for credit.
Off-gas-grid fossil fuel heating ban delayed to 2035
The government has delayed its ban on installing oil, LPG and new coal heating in off-gas-grid homes from 2026 to 2035, while raising Boiler Upgrade Scheme heat pump grants to £7,500.
Ofgem announces price cap fall for October 2023
Wholesale prices fell below the level of the Energy Price Guarantee, and the price cap was set to fall to £1,923 in October 2023, a Commons Library briefing has noted.
Energy Bills and the Price CapRules and RegulationStatistics
Welcome Home to Energy Efficiency campaign launched
The government has launched the Welcome Home to Energy Efficiency campaign and raised Boiler Upgrade Scheme heat pump grants to £7,500, while delaying the off-gas-grid fossil fuel boiler ban to 2035.
Which? responds to government's improved heat pump grant and energy efficiency campaign launch
Which? has welcomed the government's increase to heat pump grants and the launch of a home energy efficiency awareness campaign, saying cost and low awareness hold consumers back.
Boiler Upgrade Scheme heat pump grants increased by 50% to £7,500
Air source heat pump grants under the Boiler Upgrade Scheme rose from £5,000 to £7,500 and ground source grants from £6,000 to £7,500 from 23 October 2023, with the scheme extended to 2028.
CREDS publishes preprint on energy impacts of cost-of-living crisis on British households
A CREDS preprint reports that British households used 8.4% less electricity and 10.8% less gas in winter 2022-23 than the winter before, yet still faced bills around £34 a month higher.
SSEN restores power to 37,000 customers after Storm Babet
SSEN has restored power to 37,000 customers after Storm Babet, fixing more than 450 faults, but around 150 flooded properties in Brechin cannot yet be reconnected safely.
Public Accounts Committee publishes report on delayed smart meter rollout
The Public Accounts Committee has published a report finding the smart meter rollout has missed its targets, may benefit wealthier consumers more, and needs a strategy review.
Citizens Advice responds to DESNZ consultation on Boiler Upgrade Scheme amendments
Citizens Advice has told the government it welcomes the £7,500 Boiler Upgrade Scheme grant uplift but opposes cuts to grants for some households and wants the scheme's overall budget clarified.
Ember analysis says clean power system would save UK households £300 a year by 2030
Ember analysis published on 18 October 2023 says meeting the government's 2030 clean power targets would cut UK household electricity bills by £300 a year and save the economy £8.7 billion annually.
National Insulation Association submits response to Scottish Government EPC reform consultation
The National Insulation Association has told the Scottish Government it backs a separate fabric rating on reformed EPCs, a five-year validity period and wider installer choice for Home Energy Scotland funding.
Rules and RegulationScotland, Wales and Northern IrelandInsulation and Glazing
Ofgem decides to modify supply licence conditions on consumer standards
Ofgem has confirmed new supply licence conditions requiring energy suppliers to make contact easier and support customers struggling with bills, taking effect from 14 December 2023.
Hypervolt opens limited beta of mobile app v5.0.0 for iOS and Android
Hypervolt has opened a limited beta of version 5.0.0 of its mobile app for iOS and Android, rebuilt from the ground up, ahead of a planned full public release in the coming weeks.
Pensioners to get up to £600 Winter Fuel Payment this year
The British Gas Energy Trust has set out Winter Fuel Payment amounts of £250 to £600 for older people across the UK, including an extra Pensioner Cost of Living Payment of £150 to £300.
Sigenergy launches SigenStor in the UK at Solar & Storage Live 2023
Sigenergy unveiled SigenStor, a five-in-one home and commercial energy storage system, to a British audience at Solar & Storage Live 2023 in Birmingham on 17 October 2023.
SGN launches energy efficiency tool with Energy Saving Trust
SGN has launched an energy efficiency tool developed with the Energy Saving Trust that gives households a personalised action plan and could save an average of £110 a year on bills.
Warm Home Discount scheme opens for applications
The Warm Home Discount opened for applications on 16 October 2023 for households in Great Britain that must apply to their supplier or prove eligibility, as National Energy Action warned of repeat missed payments.
Boiler Upgrade Scheme consultation closes
The Boiler Upgrade Scheme consultation closed on 12 October 2023 with 205 responses, and the government set out its decisions on grant levels and eligibility in March 2024.
Changeworks and Melville Housing Association install external wall insulation in Penicuik
Changeworks has overseen external wall insulation at two Melville Housing Association properties in Penicuik, part of a wider programme targeting 75 homes in Midlothian.
Energy Systems Catapult submits response to Scottish Government EPC reform consultation
Energy Systems Catapult has responded to the Scottish Government's consultation on Energy Performance Certificate reform, proposing three outcome-focused metrics in place of the current system.
Ofgem announces energy debt at highest ever level of £2.6 billion
Ofgem has reported household energy debt of £2.6 billion, the highest level on record, prompting National Energy Action to call for a Help to Repay scheme and an enduring social tariff.
Energy Bills and the Price CapStatisticsRules and Regulation
Ofgem opens policy consultation on additional debt-related costs allowance
Ofgem has opened a consultation on whether to add a temporary allowance to the price cap for extra debt-related costs, proposing a float from April 2024 and a later true-up.
Winter 2023 Voluntary Debt Commitment published by Energy UK
Energy UK, Citizens Advice and Ofgem have published a Winter 2023 Voluntary Debt Commitment, signed by fourteen domestic suppliers, setting out extra support for customers in payment difficulty from October 2023 to March 2024.
NIE Networks announces change to design standard for new domestic connections
NIE Networks will introduce a higher-capacity design standard for new domestic connections from 1 November 2023, after a consultation on accommodating electric vehicle chargers and heat pumps.
Rules and RegulationWhere Our Energy Comes FromScotland, Wales and Northern Ireland
Citizens Advice publishes Heat GB network costs research
Citizens Advice research by LCP Delta finds electrification has the lowest network costs in 10 of 12 Great British archetypes, with hydrogen cheapest in the remaining two.
EPC reform consultation closes with 323 responses
The Scottish Government's consultation on reforming Energy Performance Certificates closed in October 2023 with 323 responses, 122 from organisations and 201 from individuals.
MCS announced plans to redevelop oversight of the low-carbon sector
MCS has appointed Brian Wright as its first Group Finance Director and set out plans to redevelop its oversight of consumer protection, quality and compliance across the low-carbon sector.
MCS publishes outcome of scheme redevelopment consultation
MCS has published the outcome of its consultation on redeveloping the certification scheme, confirming new documents before the end of 2023 and a relaunch in summer 2024.
NIBE launches S735 Exhaust Air Heat Pump
NIBE has launched the S735 Exhaust Air Heat Pump, an all-in-one unit for heating, hot water and ventilation, with an A+++ rating and a published SCOP of 4.29.
Energy Systems Catapult publishes Data for Good, Smart Meter Data Access report
Energy Systems Catapult and the Data Communications Company have published a report calling for faster access to smart meter data, with four recommendations to change how that data is governed.
Ofgem reschedules wholesale cost review consultation and delays possible cap adjustment to April 2024
Ofgem has pushed back its follow-up consultation on wholesale cost allowances in the default tariff cap to late November or early December, delaying any cap adjustment to April 2024 at the earliest.
Government publishes 30-point Plan for Drivers including EV myth-busting commitment
The government has published a 30-point plan for drivers covering electric vehicle charging and a commitment to work with industry to myth-bust concerns about electric vehicles.
New phase of Warmer Homes Scotland launched
The Scottish Government launched a new phase of Warmer Homes Scotland on 2 October 2023, shifting the national fuel poverty scheme towards clean heating where it is financially and technically feasible.
Successor Warmer Homes Scotland programme launched under the same name
The successor to Warmer Homes Scotland launched on 2 October 2023 under the same name, with a maximum contract value of up to £728 million over up to seven years and higher grant limits per household.
Over 140 organisations write to Government urging tariff reform consultation
More than 140 organisations have written to the Government urging it not to abandon plans to consult on reform of energy tariffs, after ministers appeared to rule out a social tariff consultation.
Boiler Upgrade Scheme extended until 2028
The Boiler Upgrade Scheme has been extended by three years to 2028 and its heat pump grants raised to £7,500, the government announced on 23 October 2023.
CMA opened an investigation into Worcester Bosch boiler marketing
The Competition and Markets Authority opened an investigation in October 2023 into Worcester Bosch's marketing of boilers as hydrogen-blend ready, and the firm has agreed to change its claims.
Daikin opens four new Sustainable Home Network centres
Daikin UK has opened four new Sustainable Home Network centres in Northampton, Aberdeen, Port Talbot and Surrey, taking the walk-in network for homeowners and installers to 35 sites.
New DFS for winter 2023-24 launched incorporating research recommendations
A new Demand Flexibility Service for winter 2023-24 has been launched, with National Grid ESO issuing recommendations to providers after research into last winter's scheme found most participants were satisfied.
Ecodan R290 heat pump launched
Mitsubishi Electric has said it will phase out its Ecodan R32 heat pumps and replace them with an extended Ecodan R290 range, after launching the R290 model in October 2023.
End Fuel Poverty Coalition asks Energy Security Committee for urgent evidence session on forced PPMs
The End Fuel Poverty Coalition has written to the Commons Energy Security Committee asking it to take evidence within 28 days on 124 forced prepayment meter warrants granted to Scottish Power by Berkshire Magistrates Court.
Energy Act 2023 passed by UK Parliament
The Energy Act 2023, passed by the UK Parliament in October 2023, underpins new consumer protections and technical standards for heat networks across Great Britain.
Energy debt question first asked in tracker at 8%
Consumer Scotland's energy tracker shows the share of Scottish households in energy debt rose from 8% in October 2023 to 19% in winter 2026, with total GB debt and arrears reaching £4.55bn.
Energy Bills and the Price CapStatisticsScotland, Wales and Northern Ireland
Energy price cap reduced in October 2023
The energy price cap fell on 1 October 2023, cutting the maximum unit rate suppliers can charge on standard variable tariffs, before Ofgem confirmed a 5% rise for the following quarter.
Energy Bills and the Price CapStatisticsRules and Regulation
Environment Agency permit rules apply to new ground source heat pumps from 1 October 2023
Ground source heat pump installations completed after 1 October 2023 may require an Environment Agency permit, according to updated Planning Portal guidance for England.
flexi-2023 cost components change at 1 October 2023
ScottishPower has published revised third party cost components for its flexi-2023 variable tariff, showing the values applied to unit rates and standing charges from 1 October 2023.
Good Energy launches Solar Savings smart export tariff
Good Energy has launched Solar Savings, a smart export tariff paying 15p per kWh and 20p per kWh for Wessex ECOEnergy solar customers, up from a 10p pilot rate.
Government confirms heat pumps and heat networks as primary low-carbon heating technology
The government confirmed in October 2023 that heat pumps and heat networks will be the primary low-carbon technologies for home heating over the next decade, with a key role in all pathways to 2050.
Great British Insulation Scheme launched
The UK Government expanded the ECO scheme to include the Great British Insulation Scheme in October 2023, with 2,723 Scottish households recorded as having benefited by February 2025.
Heat and Buildings Strategy sets plan to end new fossil fuel boiler installations by 2035
Hydrogen UK has told the Public Accounts Committee that the October 2021 Heat and Buildings Strategy plans to end new fossil fuel boiler installations by 2035, while warning that hydrogen heating trials have slipped.
IGEM reports homeowner uncertainty over boiler phase-out plans
IGEM has published survey findings showing 48 per cent of UK homeowners are unsure how the boiler ban will affect their properties and 65 per cent doubt government transition schemes.
Lower standing charges for prepayment households begin
From 1 October 2023 prepayment meter households pay lower standing charges than those on other payment methods, a change described by the Welsh Government as a welcome first step.
Matthew Pratt appointed Co-Chair of Future Homes Standard Implementation Board
Matthew Pratt, chief executive of Redrow, has become co-chair of the Future Homes Standard Implementation Board, the body set up to steer delivery of the 2025 standard across the homebuilding sector.
MCS opened a consultation on changes to the MCS 020 Standard
MCS has opened a consultation on changes to the MCS 020 noise assessment standard, which permitted development rights for air source heat pumps reference, following a government-commissioned review of heat pump noise.
National Infrastructure Commission estimates gas network decommissioning cost
The National Infrastructure Commission estimated in October 2023 that decommissioning the gas networks would cost £25 billion, a figure cited by the Committee of Public Accounts in its May 2024 report on decarbonising home heating.
National Infrastructure Commission recommends against hydrogen for home heating
The National Infrastructure Commission advised the government in October 2023 not to support hydrogen for home heating, a position set out in a National Audit Office report on decarbonising home heating.
Non-MCS export application fee paid to Octopus
A Perth householder paid Octopus Energy £250 in October 2023 to have a non-MCS solar installation assessed for export payments, then waited six months for a reply.
Ofgem confirms new debt engagement and repayment plan requirements
Ofgem has confirmed new licence rules requiring energy suppliers to offer debt repayment plans at the earliest opportunity and to base them on what a household can actually afford to pay.
Rules and RegulationEnergy Bills and the Price CapEnergy Suppliers
Ofgem decides to proceed with SLC 31G.3A requiring a range of contact methods
Ofgem has confirmed new licence conditions requiring energy suppliers to offer a range of contact methods, support customers in payment difficulty and publish their customer service ratings.
Ofgem introduces licence changes to make it easier to contact energy suppliers
Ofgem changed energy supply licences in October 2023 to make suppliers easier to contact, and satisfaction with ease of contact later rose from 60% in 2023 to 76% in 2025.
Ofgem published a working paper on its benchmarking approach for the operating cost review
Ofgem has published a working paper on how it benchmarks suppliers' operating costs within the price cap, weighing a high efficiency expectation against maximising protection for customers.
Ofgem publishes update letter on wholesale review timings and adjustment framework
Ofgem has set out its minded-to position of making no adjustment to the energy price cap for wholesale costs incurred between October 2022 and September 2023, and is consulting on a framework for such decisions.
Ofgem re-publishes price cap levels for cap period 11a under new 2023 TDCV values
Ofgem has re-published the October to December 2023 price cap levels using new 2023 Typical Domestic Consumption Values, putting the dual fuel direct debit cap at £1,834.
PAS 2035 (2023) released with key changes
Elmhurst Energy has published key information and changes on the October 2023 release of PAS 2035 (2023), the standard that domestic retrofit projects must comply with in the UK.
Quarterly change to Flexi variable costs from 1 October 2023
ScottishPower has published the Flexi variable cost values that apply from 1 October 2023, showing quarterly changes to network, environmental and smart meter charges across its regional tables.
Revised EBIT allowance methodology takes effect in the price cap
Ofgem has revised the profit margin allowance in the energy price cap to a fixed and variable element, and reissued the October to December cap levels on new consumption figures.
Scottish Power granted 124 forced entry warrants by Berkshire Magistrates Court
Scottish Power obtained 124 forced entry warrants from Berkshire Magistrates Court to install prepayment meters, with campaigners saying only 20 were examined in detail and asking a Commons committee to take urgent evidence.
Second £300 cost of living payment made to means-tested benefit recipients
The second instalment of the government's £900 cost of living payment, worth £300, was paid to households on means-tested benefits during October and November 2023.
Second Warm This Winter Tariff Watch report published
The second Warm This Winter Tariff Watch report finds 337 fixed tariffs priced above the Ofgem price cap, an average exit fee of £138 and supplier operating costs of £242 per customer.
UKGBC adds Window Insulation coating to its solutions resource
The UK Green Building Council added an insulating window coating for retrofit to its solutions resource in October 2023, listing it as an energy-saving alternative to window replacement.
UNC mod 840 change reduces prepayment cap level
Ofgem's October price cap methodology change equalising Unidentified Gas allocation between prepayment and non-prepayment customers cuts the prepayment cap level by £51, part offset by a £9 bad debt allowance.
Voluntary code of conduct on forced PPM installations due to come into force
A voluntary code of conduct governing the forced installation of prepayment meters is due to come into force on 1 October 2023, with campaigners saying it does not go far enough.
Warm Homes Discount Scheme reopens
The Warm Home Discount reopens in October 2023, with eligibility checks available from that month and payments made automatically to eligible households.
Grants and SchemesHow ToScotland, Wales and Northern Ireland
Winter 2023 Voluntary Debt Commitment comes into force
Energy UK's Winter 2023 Voluntary Debt Commitment, agreed with Citizens Advice and Ofgem, took effect in October 2023 and runs to March 2024, with fourteen suppliers signed up to extra support for customers in payment difficulty.
- September 2023
British Gas reopens Energy Support Fund for new applications
British Gas has reopened its Energy Support Fund for new applications from 2 October 2023, offering grants of up to £1,500 within a £100 million support package.
Grants and SchemesEnergy Bills and the Price CapEnergy Suppliers
Coalition of over 130 organisations calls for an energy social tariff
More than 130 organisations have written to the Prime Minister calling for a social tariff, as the Energy Price Guarantee is set to end in 2024 and no consultation has been published.
ECIU analysis finds winter bills set to stay at £1,200 as support ends
ECIU analysis of Cornwall Insight's price cap forecast finds the average winter energy bill will stay at £1,200 as government support ends for most households.
Myson introduces Unisenza Plus wireless heating controls
Myson has published details of its Unisenza Plus wireless heating control range, a four-component system built around a gateway that the maker says can connect up to 100 devices.
E3G assesses UK government response to gas crisis
E3G analysis finds the UK has not enacted long-term measures to cut exposure to volatile gas markets, and sets out recommendations on a social tariff, retrofit and renewables.
Revised PAS 2030:2023 published
The revised PAS 2030 was published on 28 September 2023, opening an 18-month transition period that makes the 2023 edition mandatory for government-backed retrofit work from 31 March 2025.
Revised PAS 2035 and PAS 2030 standards published
Revised PAS 2035 and PAS 2030 retrofit standards were published on 28 September 2023, with an 18-month transition period before the 2023 editions come into full operation.
Standing charge discount provision added
The Energy Price Guarantee scheme documents for Great Britain were updated on 27 September 2023 to let the scheme deliver support as a discount on standing charges rather than unit rates alone.
ECO4 innovation measure 022 approved
Ofgem approved UKSOL monocrystalline solar panels with built-in Tigo optimisers as ECO4 innovation measure 022 on 26 September 2023, with a 45% uplift and EDF Energy as awarded supplier.
Sunsynk announces Hybrid Fusion Inverter range
Sunsynk has announced its Hybrid Fusion Inverter range, an all in one unit combining a hybrid inverter with an integrated LiFePO4 battery, in sizes from 2.5 kW to 30 kW.
DESNZ issues change notice to increase BUS grant levels
The Department for Energy Security and Net Zero issued a change notice on 21 September 2023 raising Boiler Upgrade Scheme grants for air and ground source heat pumps to £7,500 from 23 October 2023.
Government confirms delay of EV mandate deadline to 2035
The government has confirmed it will push back the end of sale date for new conventional petrol and diesel cars and vans from 2030 to 2035, leaving the details of the Zero Emission Vehicle Mandate outstanding.
Government confirms ZEV mandate remains in place
Ministers have confirmed the zero emissions vehicle mandate is unchanged after confusion over whether Rishi Sunak's rollback of climate policies had also swept away the scheme requiring electric car sales.
Boiler Upgrade Scheme heat pump grants increased by 50%
Grants for heat pumps under the Boiler Upgrade Scheme rose by 50% from 23 October 2023, taking the air source and ground source rate to £7,500, with applications rising sharply afterwards.
ChargeUK issues statement urging government to confirm 2030 phase out date and strong ZEV mandate
ChargeUK has urged the Prime Minister to confirm the 2030 phase out date for new petrol and diesel vehicles and a strong ZEV mandate, calling the government's news extremely worrying for industry confidence.
Fuel Bank Foundation publishes advice on avoiding and reporting energy scams
The Fuel Bank Foundation has published guidance on spotting, avoiding and reporting energy scams, saying energy-related fraud rose sharply over the previous 12 months as criminals exploited the cost-of-living crisis.
Nesta calls on UK Government to keep 2035 gas boiler commitment
Nesta has urged the UK Government to keep its commitment that no new gas boilers are installed after 2035, warning that any retreat would raise costs and slow heat pump uptake.
Ofgem gains power to direct suppliers to ringfence customer credit balances
Ofgem has confirmed that since 20 September 2023 it can direct an energy supplier holding too little cash against customer credit balances to ringfence funds, and has begun publishing quarterly data on those balances.
Phase-out of off-gas-grid fossil fuel boilers and new coal heating delayed to 2035
Rishi Sunak's September 2023 net zero speech delayed the phase-out of new oil and LPG boilers and coal heating for off-grid homes from 2026 to 2035, while raising Boiler Upgrade Scheme grants to £7,500.
Prime Minister delivers speech relaxing Net Zero policies
The Prime Minister's September 2023 Net Zero speech delayed fossil fuel car and boiler phase-outs and dropped planned energy efficiency rules for rented homes, prompting the Climate Change Committee to warn the UK is unlikely to meet its 2030 emissions target.
Rishi Sunak announces rollback of key net-zero targets
Rishi Sunak has delayed the 2030 ban on new petrol and diesel car sales to 2035, loosened the gas boiler phaseout and dropped energy efficiency rules for rented homes.
Sunak announces delays to core net-zero policies in "new approach" speech
Rishi Sunak has delayed the 2030 ban on new petrol and diesel cars to 2035, pushed the off-gas-grid fossil heating phaseout to 2035 and scrapped rental energy efficiency rules.
Rules and RegulationInsulation and GlazingBoilers and Heating
GBIS and HUG schemes open for applications with new eligibility checker
The Great British Insulation Scheme and Home Upgrade Grant opened for applications on 14 September 2023, with a government eligibility checker directing households to their supplier or council.
Great British Insulation Scheme opens
The government opened its £1 billion Great British Insulation Scheme on 14 September 2023, with an online eligibility checker and a phone line for households in lower council tax bands.
Octopus Energy launches Cosy Octopus smart heating system with Cosy 6 heat pump
Octopus Energy has launched Cosy Octopus, a smart heating system built around its first in-house heat pump, the Cosy 6, with installations due to begin in December.
Separate Home Upgrade Grant checker launched
A separate online checker for the Home Upgrade Grant was launched on 14 September 2023, alongside the Great British Insulation Scheme, for off-gas-grid homes rated EPC D to G.
Which? publishes research on homeowner insulation attitudes and calls for government action
Which? has published research showing few UK homeowners are insulating their homes despite worries about energy bills, and called on the government to improve advice and EPCs.
MCS responds to SEG confusion and sets out its future role
MCS has clarified that regulated Smart Export Guarantee tariffs require an MCS certified installation, while non-regulated export tariffs remain at energy companies' discretion, and has set out planned scheme changes.
Ofgem publishes decision on Involuntary PPM rules
Ofgem has confirmed new licence rules on involuntary prepayment meters, widening the group that must never be given one to households with children under two and those occupied only by adults over 75.
Rules and RegulationEnergy SuppliersEnergy Bills and the Price Cap
Titon launches HRV4 Q Plus MVHR range
Titon has added the HRV4 Q Plus to its mechanical ventilation with heat recovery range, a 600mm wide unit rated at up to 158 l/s airflow and up to 91% heat recovery.
OPSS intervenes with 11 gas hob manufacturers over safety risks
The Office for Product Safety and Standards has secured commitments from 11 gas hob manufacturers, nine of them UK firms, to modify affected models after faulty elbow joints were linked to poisoning, burns, fires and explosions.
Which? and Octopus Energy launch solar panel and heat pump discount offer
Which? members can claim a 5% discount on solar panel or air-source heat pump installations booked through Octopus Energy, under an offer running until 15 December 2023.
Consultation on SAP and RdSAP amendments for ECO schemes closed
The National Insulation Association has published its response to a closed government consultation on changing the energy rating method used for ECO4 and the Great British Insulation Scheme.
GivEnergy moves to standard 12-year warranty on residential products
GivEnergy has replaced its five-year residential warranty, with an optional ten-year extension, with a standard twelve-year warranty on all home batteries, inverters and All in One units from 11 September 2023.
Coalition writes to Energy Secretary seeking ban on forced PPMs
The End Fuel Poverty Coalition has written to Energy Secretary Claire Coutinho asking her to legislate against forced prepayment meter installations and to keep Ofgem's current ban in place until at least April 2024.
Cadent issues gas safety warning ahead of winter
Cadent has warned that almost half of households would attempt their own boiler repairs, as its research shows many are skipping annual servicing to cut costs before winter.
Consumer groups warn this winter will be as brutal as the last with no repeat of crisis support
Consumer groups told MPs that more than a million vulnerable households missed energy crisis support last winter, and warned this winter will be as brutal with no repeat of the schemes.
Fuel Bank Foundation head warns MPs of impending winter fuel crisis
The head of the Fuel Bank Foundation told MPs that the UK faces another winter fuel crisis without further targeted government support, as bills remain double pre-crisis levels.
NEA tells MPs over a million vulnerable households missed energy crisis support
National Energy Action told MPs that more than a million vulnerable households missed energy crisis support last winter, with £444 million of earmarked funding left unspent by the energy department.
Grants and SchemesYour Type of HomeEnergy Bills and the Price Cap
Voucher issue and redemption details added
Government guidance for continuous cruisers was updated on 6 September 2023 with details of when £600 energy bill support vouchers would be issued and how they could be redeemed.
2030 petrol and diesel car ban postponed to 2035
Rishi Sunak postponed the ban on new petrol and diesel car sales from 2030 to 2035, removing the five-year extension previously given to hybrid and plug-in hybrid vehicles.
AR5 CfD auction fails to attract offshore wind bids
The Climate Change Committee has confirmed that no offshore wind contracts were awarded in the fifth Contracts for Difference auction, after the strike price failed to keep pace with supply chain costs.
Boiler Upgrade Scheme heat pump grant increased to £7,500
The Boiler Upgrade Scheme grant for heat pumps rose from £5,000 to £7,500 in September 2023, but the scheme's budget was not increased, so it will serve fewer homes.
BSI publishes updated PAS 2035/2030:2023 standards
The British Standards Institution published updated PAS 2035/2030:2023 retrofit standards in September 2023, with the 2019 versions withdrawn at midnight on 30th March 2025.
CES and CESS amend bill formats
Ofgem has closed its investigation into Community Energy Scheme UK and Community Energy Scheme Stoke after the firms completed agreed changes to bills, contracts and exit rights.
Energy Bills and the Price CapRules and RegulationEnergy Suppliers
Commons committee backs social tariff
The House of Commons Energy Security and Net Zero Committee backed a social tariff for specific groups of consumers in September 2023, as part of a long-running campaign for energy tariff reform.
Coventry high-rise fire linked to UPP battery
A Coventry high-rise fire in September 2023 has been linked to a UPP e-bike battery that government withdrew from sale, as safety charity Electrical Safety First continues to find listings online.
UK delays end of sale of new petrol and diesel cars and vans
The UK government has pushed back the end of sale of new petrol and diesel cars and vans from 2030 to 2035, a change the car industry says has made private buyers slower to switch to electric.
DESNZ lowers Core Group 2 high energy cost threshold for SY13
DESNZ has lowered the high energy cost threshold for Core Group 2 of the Warm Home Discount in England and Wales, expanding the eligible cohort after Scheme Year 12 spending fell £74 million short of expectations.
ECA's guide to Net Zero launched at Roadshow
The Electrical Contractors' Association has launched a guide to Net Zero at its Roadshow, setting out its case for safety and competence to sit at the centre of UK electrification.
European standard change affected solar PV fire classifications
A European standard change that took effect in September 2023 left fire test laboratories unable to issue fire classifications for roof integrated solar systems, prompting MCS to seek a fix.
Exemptions announced for 2035 fossil fuel boiler phase-out
The government said in September 2023 that some homes, estimated at about a fifth of households, may be exempt from the planned 2035 phase-out of new fossil fuel boilers.
UK government launches new insulation funding for up to 300,000 households
The UK government launched funding for up to 300,000 eligible households to install insulation, as Which? research found few homeowners are looking into insulation despite concern about energy bills.
UK Government signalled abandonment of MEES amendment commitments
The National Insulation Association has said the UK Government abandoned its proposed amendments to Minimum Energy Efficiency Standards, as signalled by the Prime Minister's speech in September 2023.
Great British Insulation scheme formally launched
The government has formally launched the Great British Insulation Scheme, extending support for loft and cavity wall insulation to households in council tax bands A to D.
Great British Insulation Scheme launched, formerly known as ECO+
The Great British Insulation Scheme, formerly ECO+, has launched across England, Scotland and Wales, administered by Ofgem and running to March 2026, with average annual bill savings of £400.
IGEM reports one in five UK homeowners has never had a gas safety check
Research published by IGEM in September 2023 found 22% of UK homeowners have never had a gas safety check, as ONS data showed accidental carbon monoxide deaths fell 7% year on year.
Latest revision of PAS 2035/2030 published and made freely available
A revised version of the PAS 2035/2030 retrofit standards was published in September 2023 and made freely available, with a transition period from the 2019 edition running to 30 March 2025.
Leaky Homes project to expand across Surrey in September
The Leaky Homes project, run by Zero Carbon Guildford and Energy Action Redhill & Reigate, plans to expand across all Surrey districts and boroughs from September, buying more thermal cameras and training community groups.
Local Authority Delivery scheme closes
The Local Authority Delivery scheme, which funded energy efficiency upgrades for low-income households in England, closed in September 2023 after opening in August 2020.
Myson upgrades 700mm Select Compact radiators to 750mm high models
Myson is replacing its 700mm high Select Compact radiators with 750mm high models from mid-September, a change it links to demand for low temperature heating systems.
Octopus Energy launched its Energy Helpers programme
Energy UK's 2023 Vulnerability Commitment report records that Octopus Energy's Energy Helpers programme completed 218,000 home visits, as the voluntary scheme grew to 13 signatories covering over 90% of the domestic market.
Ofgem raises storm compensation cap from £700 to £2,000
Ofgem has raised the maximum storm compensation payment for households and businesses that lose power in severe weather from £700 to £2,000, with a higher initial payment and shorter waiting times.
Organisations line up to back energy tariff reform
More than 140 charities, organisations and MPs have signed an open letter urging the Prime Minister to consult on and deliver an energy social tariff before winter.
Phase out date for new off-grid oil and LPG boilers put back to 2035
The Prime Minister announced in September 2023 that the phase out date for installing new oil and LPG boilers and new coal heating in off-grid homes would move from 2026 to 2035.
Powerwall 3 released with integrated solar inverter
Tesla released the Powerwall 3 in September 2023, a home battery with an integrated solar inverter, 13.5 kWh of usable capacity and up to 11.04 kW of on-grid power.
Prime Minister announced change to gas boiler new-build policy
Rishi Sunak said in September 2023 that the aim was to cut gas boiler installations in new build homes by 80 per cent rather than ban them outright.
Proposed EPC C by 2025 rental standard increases scrapped
Proposals to raise the minimum energy performance standard for rented homes in England and Wales to EPC C by 2025 were dropped in September 2023, the Welsh Government has confirmed in its heat strategy.
Rental MEES regulations scrapped
Rishi Sunak has scrapped planned regulations that would have required landlords in England and Wales to bring privately rented homes up to EPC C by 2028, part of a wider rollback of climate policies.
SSEN Distribution launches data portal in partnership with Icebreaker One
SSEN Distribution has launched an open data portal built with Icebreaker One, publishing anonymised load-modelling data under a Creative Commons licence for use by councils, businesses and individuals.
Stelrad Electric Series available from merchants
Stelrad has launched its first electric radiator range, the Electric Series, available from merchants from 1 September 2023, with models for rooms and bathrooms.
Stock take of Britain's energy system published
The End Fuel Poverty Coalition's September 2023 stock take records record unit costs, rising standing charges, £1bn of prepayment meter debt and 4,706 excess winter deaths in 2022/23.
UKGBC writes to the Prime Minister over green policy roll-back
The UK Green Building Council's deputy chief executive has written to the Prime Minister warning that delaying fossil fuel phase-out plans will not cut energy bills or meet climate targets.
Warm This Winter report card on Government energy bills progress published
A Warm This Winter report card on the Government's progress against eight measures to tackle the energy bills crisis found no progress on half of them and one going backwards.
- August 2023
Consultation on proposed amendments to the Boiler Upgrade Scheme Regulations opened
The government opened a consultation on 31 August 2023 on amending the Boiler Upgrade Scheme Regulations, covering grant levels, EPC requirements and biomass boilers with a cooking function.
Ofgem publishes GBIS Delivery Guidance V1.0
Ofgem published delivery guidance for the Great British Insulation Scheme on 31 August 2023, setting out how suppliers must meet insulation targets running to 31 March 2026.
Grants and SchemesInsulation and GlazingRules and Regulation
tado° introduces three new energy cost products
tado° has launched a smart charging app for home electric vehicle charging and introduced a heat pump control, alongside an announced hourly dynamic tariff, in eight European markets including the UK.
tado° launches Smart Charging app for electric vehicles
tado° has launched a free app that schedules home electric vehicle charging at the cheapest and greenest hours, available in the UK and seven other countries.
SSEN extends Sherborne upgrade to December 2023
SSEN has extended its Sherborne network upgrade from September to December 2023 and raised investment in the Dorset project to £1.9 million, covering around 10,350 homes and businesses.
Warm Homes Network fuel poverty scheme launched
Cadent and partners have launched the Warm Homes Network, a fuel poverty pilot starting in Birmingham in August 2023, with a Cumbria pilot in October and GB-wide roll out expected in 2024.
SSEN begins £2.6m Charminster electricity infrastructure upgrade
SSEN has started a £2.6 million upgrade of underground cabling in Charminster, Dorset, replacing 4.6 kilometres of cable in works that run until March 2024.
Sunsynk publishes Fusion style inverter feature list
Sunsynk has published a feature list for its Hybrid Fusion Inverter range, an all in one unit pairing a hybrid inverter with a lithium iron phosphate battery in three sizes.
ECIU analysis finds inefficient homes to pay around £720 more under October 2023 price cap
ECIU analysis published on 25 August 2023 finds homes rated EPC band F will pay £721 more a year than band C homes under Ofgem's October 2023 price cap of £1,923.
Energy Bills and the Price CapWhere to StartRules and Regulation
ECIU poll finds 97% of public do not know gas boiler phase out date
A Focal Data poll for the Energy and Climate Intelligence Unit found only 3% of 2,010 adults in Great Britain correctly identified 2035 as the target date for phasing out gas boilers in existing homes.
NIBE launches most powerful exhaust air heat pump yet
NIBE has launched its most powerful exhaust air heat pump yet, the company announced on 25 August 2023, extending the range of a technology it has previously won awards for.
Ofgem publishes updated default tariff price cap levels for 1 October to 31 December 2023
Ofgem has set the default tariff price cap for 1 October to 31 December 2023 at £1,923 for a typical dual fuel direct debit household, a fall of £151 or 7 per cent.
Prepayment meter regional rates for October to December 2023 added
The government added Energy Price Guarantee regional unit rates and standing charges for prepayment meters covering October to December 2023 to its published rates page.
Citizens Advice publishes Winter Warning report calling for targeted energy bill support
Citizens Advice has published a Winter Warning report arguing that millions of households face a winter as bad as or worse than last year and calling for targeted energy bill support.
Energy Bills and the Price CapGrants and SchemesEnergy Suppliers
Citizens Advice warns of record energy debt help requests before winter
Citizens Advice reports record demand for energy debt help before winter, with 7.8 million people borrowing to pay energy bills in the first half of 2023 and a forecast 26% rise in debt cases by year end.
Energy Bills and the Price CapEnergy SuppliersGrants and Schemes
Ofgem publishes decision on Great British Insulation Scheme and ECO4 amendment administration
Ofgem has published its final decision on how the Great British Insulation Scheme and changes to ECO4 will be administered, after a consultation that drew 17 responses.
Rules and RegulationGrants and SchemesInsulation and Glazing
UK Power Networks reports trial success and considers next steps
UK Power Networks says it is considering how to build on a fuel voucher trial with charity Scope that gave more than 1,000 disabled customers £80 towards their energy bills.
Which? warns 13 million households not heating homes when cold due to bill fears
Which? has estimated that 13 million UK households did not heat their homes when it was cold last winter, and has repeated its call for a targeted social tariff before the October price cap is set.
Energy Bills and the Price CapRules and RegulationYour Type of Home
Welsh Government publishes consultation on the Heat Strategy for Wales
The Welsh Government has published a consultation on its heat strategy for Wales, setting out plans to move homes and businesses away from fossil fuel heating towards electrification.
ECO4 Delivery Guidance version 2.0 published
Ofgem published version 2.0 of its ECO4 Delivery Guidance on 14 August 2023, reflecting legislative changes that took effect the same day for measures installed under the scheme.
ECO4 legislative amendments changed ESH and EHS classification
Ofgem's ECO4 guidance records that from 14 August 2023 electric storage heaters and Electric Heating Systems count as renewable heating systems in homes with solar PV.
Government launches 36 pilot energy advice services backed by £20 million
The government has launched 36 pilot energy advice services backed by £20 million, trialling in-person efficiency advice for more than 125,000 households across England.
E3G publishes report on supporting warmer homes for rural communities
E3G research published on 9 August 2023 sets out the higher fuel poverty gap faced by rural off-gas-grid households in England and recommends a rural uplift to two government heating schemes.
ECO4 Measures Table version 2.0 published
Ofgem published version 2.0 of the ECO4 measures table on 9 August 2023, recording the first set of legislative amendments to the scheme, which took effect from 14 August 2023.
Nesta analysis finds UK has third-highest electricity-to-gas price ratio in Europe
Nesta analysis published on 8 August 2023 finds the UK had the third-highest electricity-to-gas price ratio in Europe, averaging 3.8 between 2011 and 2021 and 4.4 between 2018 and 2022.
Nesta publishes conclusion of European heat pump uptake comparison
Nesta's European heat pump comparison, published on 8 August 2023, concludes that air-to-air heat pumps dominate uptake across Europe while the Boiler Upgrade Scheme funds only air-to-water and ground-source models.
GBIS Measures Table V1.0 published
Ofgem has published the first version of the Great British Insulation Scheme Measures Table, the document listing the insulation measures suppliers may deliver under the scheme.
MCS consultation on scheme redevelopment receives 106 official and 187 informal responses
MCS received 106 official and 187 informal responses to its six-week consultation on redeveloping the certification scheme, with a summary due in September and changes planned for the second quarter of 2024.
RECC publishes annual report highlights for 2022
The Renewable Energy Consumer Code has published highlights from its 2022 annual report, recording 3,037 member businesses, over 108,000 installations and £176,557 recovered for consumers.
TÜV Rheinland (China) achieved MCS accreditation for solar PV products
TÜV Rheinland (China) Ltd became the first MCS product certification body based outside Europe in August 2023, initially certifying solar panel products for the UK market.
Mitsubishi Electric launches Versatile domestic hot water cylinder range
Mitsubishi Electric has launched the Versatile domestic hot water cylinder range in five capacities, designed for use with its Ecodan R32 heat pumps and controlled through MELCloud.
ChargeUK writes to Prime Minister urging commitment to 2030 ZEV mandate
ChargeUK has written to Prime Minister Rishi Sunak urging him to stand firm on the 2030 phase out of petrol and diesel cars and on the Zero Emission Vehicle mandate due in 2024.
Mobile heat pump training facility launched at South Lanarkshire College
A Scottish Government funded mobile heat pump training centre, certified by BPEC, was launched at South Lanarkshire College on 2 August to train installers across Scotland.
Battery electric vehicles reach record 20.1% market share in August 2023
Battery electric cars took a 20.1% share of UK new car registrations in August 2023, an August record, as the SMMT warned that delays to the Zero Emission Vehicle Mandate threaten decarbonisation goals.
Baxi launches new residential air source heat pump range
Baxi has launched the HP40 Monobloc air source heat pump range for UK homes, sold as a package with cylinders, controls, training and aftersales support.
Cadent launches Warm Homes Network pilot in Birmingham
Cadent began piloting the Warm Homes Network in Birmingham in August 2023, a partnership scheme that refers vulnerable households to energy efficiency, benefit and debt support through a single point of contact.
CfD Allocation Round 5 secures no offshore wind capacity
The fifth Contracts for Difference allocation round secured no offshore wind capacity, a result Ember says puts the government's 50 GW offshore wind target for 2030 at risk.
Consultation published on future regulation of heat networks
Ofgem and the Department for Energy Security and Net Zero have published a consultation on regulating heat networks, with rules expected to start in 2025 and Consumer Scotland named as advocate.
Consumer Council research estimates 51% of Northern Ireland households in fuel poverty
Consumer Council research estimates 51 per cent of Northern Ireland households were in fuel poverty in early 2023, up from 34 per cent in 2022, with 48 per cent unable to afford to heat their homes.
StatisticsScotland, Wales and Northern IrelandYour Type of Home
Consumer Scotland publishes response to Ofgem statutory consultation on involuntary prepayment meters
Consumer Scotland has told Ofgem it supports putting the involuntary prepayment meter code into supply licences and keeping over 85s in the do not install category, but wants under 5s moved there too.
Consumer Scotland responds to Ofgem statutory consultation on consumer standards
Consumer Scotland has told Ofgem it broadly backs the regulator's proposed consumer standards for energy suppliers, while calling for outcomes-based compliance, minimum standards for agency lines and recognised customer service accreditation.
Emergency credit increased from £1 to £3
Power NI raised the emergency credit available on its Keypad prepayment meters in Northern Ireland from £1 to £3 on 1 August 2023, giving households a larger buffer before supply is cut off.
UK Government confirms cancellation of proposed £120 hydrogen household levy
The Energy Secretary has confirmed that a proposed £120 annual levy on household energy bills to fund hydrogen production, due to take effect in 2025, will not be imposed on households.
Government directs Ofgem to end PPM premium
In August 2023 the Government directed Ofgem to permanently end the premium paid by prepayment meter customers, with a Call for Evidence on levelling the standing charge.
Ideal Heating launched its first heat pump production line in Hull
Ideal Heating launched its first heat pump production line in Hull in August 2023, part of a wider investment programme that has since drawn government funding and further company spending.
Inaugural Tariff Watch report published
The Warm This Winter coalition has published the first Tariff Watch report, estimating that household energy suppliers could make £1.74bn in profits over the next 12 months from customers' bills.
Nesta submits written evidence to Parliament on decarbonising home heating
Nesta has told Parliament that ministers should confirm a 2035 fossil fuel boiler phase-out, lift the Boiler Upgrade Scheme cap and cap the electricity to gas price ratio at 2.5.
Ofgem announces cap fall to £1,923 for Q4 2023
Ofgem set the default tariff cap for October to December 2023 at £1,923 for a typical dual fuel household, down from £2,074, though standing charges rose and the Energy Bills Support Scheme has ended.
Ofgem publishes call for input on engaging domestic consumers in energy flexibility
Ofgem has opened a call for input on how to move households from passive bill paying to active energy flexibility, with responses due by 29 September 2023.
Ofgem set out options to levelise prices across payment methods
Ofgem has set out options for levelling the standing charges paid by prepayment meter customers with those paid by other households, as part of a wider review of debt-related costs in the price cap.
Scottish Government limited solar funding to homes with renewable heating systems
The Scottish Government restricted Home Energy Scotland solar funding to homes with renewable heating from August 2023, before solar and battery support was withdrawn entirely in June 2024.
Grants and SchemesScotland, Wales and Northern IrelandWhere to Start
Vauxhall launches Electric Streets of Britain campaign
Vauxhall launched its Electric Streets of Britain campaign in August 2023, inviting drivers to register the need for on-street charging through a national database shared with councils and charge point operators.
Welsh Government publishes draft Heat Strategy for Wales for consultation
The Welsh Government has published a draft Heat Strategy for Wales, setting out its path to net zero heat by 2050 and opening the document to consultation.
- July 2023
Alpha launches Alpha Hydro packaged heat pump solution
Alpha has launched the Alpha Hydro, a packaged air source heat pump system pairing 5kW to 16kW single-phase units with a pre-plumbed cylinder and Smartech controls, aimed at retrofit and new build homes.
Panasonic adds Bi-Bloc units to Aquarea L Series heat pump range
Panasonic has added Bi-Bloc units to its Aquarea L Series of heat pumps, which run on the natural refrigerant R290 and can provide heating, hot water and cooling.
Citizens Advice responds to Ofgem statutory consultation on involuntary prepayment meters
Citizens Advice has welcomed Ofgem's statutory consultation on involuntary prepayment meters and asked the regulator to widen the Do Not Install category to cover under-fives and some serious health conditions.
Consultation opens on energy efficiency requirements of Building Regulations
Northern Ireland's Department of Finance opened a consultation on 26 July 2023 on energy efficiency requirements and related areas of Building Regulations, later extended by one month.
MCS appoints British Assessment Bureau as a certification body
MCS has appointed the British Assessment Bureau as a certification body for small-scale renewables, its third such appointment in a year after more than a decade without new ones.
Statutory consultation on consumer standards licence changes published
Ofgem has published the stage three statutory consultation on proposed consumer standards licence changes, alongside responses to its May policy consultation, moving the rules closer to implementation.
Great British Insulation Scheme commences
Parts 1 to 9 of the ECO4A Order came into force on 25 July 2023, beginning the obligation period of the Great British Insulation Scheme, which runs until 31 March 2026.
Great British Insulation Scheme supplier obligations came into force
Legislation in force from 25 July 2023 placed legal obligations on large and medium-sized energy suppliers that meet the Great British Insulation Scheme threshold, Ofgem has confirmed.
SALUS Controls announces Whisper smart TRV for early 2024 launch
SALUS Controls has announced Whisper, a smart thermostatic radiator valve it calls the SuperQuiet TRV, with a market launch set for early 2024 and a 2023 iF Design award already attached.
Scottish Government publishes EPC reform consultation
The Scottish Government has opened a consultation on reforming domestic and non-domestic Energy Performance Certificates, proposing new metrics, a shorter validity period and a move to a webpage format.
Rules and RegulationScotland, Wales and Northern IrelandInsulation and Glazing
Government publishes vision for a better energy retail market
The government has published its vision for the future energy retail market, setting out targeted reforms and confirming a consultation on reform options would follow later in 2023.
Boiler Upgrade Scheme extended to 2028
MCS reports that the Boiler Upgrade Scheme has been extended to 2028, alongside data showing Wales has overtaken Scotland for the highest uptake of small-scale renewables per household.
NEA and consumer groups call on Government to publish social tariff consultation
National Energy Action, Energy UK, Citizens Advice, Fair By Design and MoneySavingExpert have urged the Government to publish its planned consultation on a social tariff and other bill support before Parliament returns in September.
Rules and RegulationWhere to StartEnergy Bills and the Price Cap
Version 2 added Hybrid Wall Insulation measure types
Ofgem added Hybrid Wall Insulation measure types to the Great British Insulation Scheme scores matrix in Version 2, published on 20 July 2023, the first change since the matrix appeared.
E3G publishes Autumn Budget briefing urging fiscal support for private rented sector energy efficiency
E3G has published an Autumn Budget briefing calling on the Treasury to let landlords offset energy efficiency improvements against rental income and to support green lending for the private rented sector.
Nesta publishes policy plan for decarbonising home heating
Nesta has published a four-part policy plan for decarbonising UK home heating, covering a boiler phase-out date, cheaper electricity, installer growth and planning reform.
Government introduces £5 million Heat Pump Training Grant
The Heat Pump Association has reported a £5 million government training grant to retrain and upskill 10,000 engineers, alongside rising heat pump sales and Boiler Upgrade Scheme applications.
Citizens Advice published its response to Ofgem's statutory consultation on the supplier profit margin allowance
Citizens Advice has opposed Ofgem's plan to raise the profit margin allowance inside the retail price cap, saying the proposal is not justified by evidence and would not serve consumers.
Rules and RegulationEnergy Bills and the Price CapEnergy Suppliers
Warranty conditions issued for Rayleigh 3-Phase Modular Energy Storage System
Rayleigh Instruments has published warranty conditions for its 3-Phase Modular Energy Storage System, setting a five year term, a three year term without internet connection and an 80% capacity guarantee over 120 months.
SMMT issues statement on Public Charge Point Regulations
The Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders welcomed new Public Charge Point Regulations for their focus on reliability, interoperability and pricing transparency, and called for contactless payment below 8kW.
E3G publishes recommendations for locally led retrofit reform
E3G has published recommendations for reforming local retrofit delivery in England, covering grant disbursement, planning rules and local energy planning, aimed at councils that run home upgrade schemes.
Mixergy announces collaboration with Kingspan Water & Energy
Mixergy has announced a collaboration with Kingspan Water & Energy to put its top-down heating technology into Kingspan's Range Tribune cylinder family, launching the Range Tribune MXi.
OPSS issues suspension notices on Cata / Culina gas hobs with certain elbow joints
The Office for Product Safety and Standards has suspended supply of two Cata and Culina gas hob models whose elbow joints can leak gas, and ordered a free modification programme.
Which? responds to Ofgem's expectations for energy suppliers on financial resilience and consumer support
Which? has welcomed Ofgem's new expectations for energy suppliers on financial resilience and customer support, while warning that bills remain almost double pre-crisis levels.
Jackery launches Solar Generator 2000 Plus in the UK
Jackery has launched the Solar Generator 2000 Plus in the UK, a portable power station with an LFP battery, 3,000W output and capacity that can be expanded with add-on battery packs.
Viessmann launches lower output Vitocal 150/151-A air source heat pumps
Viessmann has added 4, 6 and 8 kW variants to its Vitocal 150-A and 151-A air source heat pump range, extending the line below the 10, 13 and 16 kW models it launched in 2022.
Renewable Adjudication Service launched by REAL
REAL has launched the Renewable Adjudication Service, run by CEDR, which becomes the second stage of the Renewable Energy Consumer Code dispute process in place of independent arbitration.
Alt HAN technology due to be rolled out from July 2023 subject to pilot outcome
Alt HAN technology, which extends the range of the smart meter home area network, is being piloted by some suppliers and is due to be rolled out from July 2023 subject to the pilot's outcome.
BEAMA publishes Future Homes Standard Phase 1 Impact Report ahead of consultation
BEAMA has published a Phase 1 Network-to-Emitter Impact Report on low carbon heating technologies for new homes, ahead of a Future Homes Standard consultation expected after summer 2023.
Boiler Upgrade Scheme grant uplift in summer 2023
An Environment Agency review of ground source heating and cooling records that the Boiler Upgrade Scheme grant uplift came in summer 2023, with heat pump grants rising again that October.
Centrica trading division reported £1.4 billion profit
Centrica's energy marketing and trading division made £1.4 billion in profit during the year, it was reported in July 2023, as the company's wider role in UK gas supply drew scrutiny.
Draft Heat Strategy for Wales published for consultation
The Welsh Government published its Draft Heat Strategy for Wales for consultation in summer 2023, setting out long term requirements for decarbonising heat across all sectors by 2050.
Energy Bills Support Scheme ends
The Energy Bills Support Scheme has ended, removing support that held the average bill 16 per cent below the Energy Price Guarantee rate, the End Fuel Poverty Coalition has said.
Energy Saving Trust publishes its Guide to solar panels
Energy Saving Trust has published a guide to solar panels covering how the technology works, typical costs and savings, and how to find an MCS certified installer.
Energy Systems Catapult chosen to develop Lancaster District LAEP
Energy Systems Catapult was chosen in July 2023 to produce a whole systems, evidence-led Local Area Energy Plan for Lancaster District, which Lancaster City Council signed off in October 2024.
FCA Consumer Duty comes into force
The Financial Conduct Authority's Consumer Duty took effect at the end of July 2023, setting a higher standard of consumer protection for regulated firms including those that finance home heating.
First Warm This Winter Tariff Watch report published
The first Warm This Winter Tariff Watch report, produced with Future Energy Associates, says suppliers could make £1.74bn in permitted profit over the next 12 months and sets out regional price differences.
Fixed tariff availability doubles in July 2023
The number of fixed energy tariffs newly available on the UK market doubled in July 2023, from five in early 2023 to ten, according to the first Warm This Winter Tariff Watch report.
Government appears to rule out social tariff consultation
The Government appeared in July 2023 to rule out a consultation on a social tariff for energy, despite having said it intended to consult on options that summer.
Government reduces Energy Price Guarantee extra support to zero
The government cut the extra support paid through the Energy Price Guarantee to zero on 1 July 2023, ending a 3.77p per unit discount for Power NI customers and adding an estimated 14p a day to bills.
Government rejects Energy Bill amendments on forced PPM transfers
The Government has rejected backbench amendments to the Energy Bill that would have given it power to ban forced transfers of households onto prepayment meters, with further debate postponed to the autumn.
Rules and RegulationEnergy Bills and the Price CapSmart Meters
UK government reviews 600,000 heat pumps per year target
A July 2023 parliamentary briefing reviewed the government's target of 600,000 heat pump installations a year by 2028, noting that only 72,000 were fitted in 2022 and that barriers remain.
Heat Training Grant begins funding heat pump installer training
The £5 million Heat Training Grant has funded training for around 3,000 heat pump installers since July 2023, part of a wider push to build the installer base behind the Boiler Upgrade Scheme.
Intelligent Octopus Flux launched
Octopus Energy launched Intelligent Octopus Flux in July 2023, a bundled import and export tariff for homes with solar panels and a qualifying battery, with matching peak rates.
Northern Ireland announces plan for electricity smart meter implementation
Northern Ireland's Department for the Economy is developing a plan for electricity smart meters, with analysis recommending a six-year roll-out beginning in 2027.
Smart MetersScotland, Wales and Northern IrelandNew Technology
Ofgem opens workstream to review suppliers' wholesale costs for default tariff customers
Ofgem has opened a workstream to review whether suppliers' wholesale costs for default tariff customers between October 2022 and September 2023 differed from the allowances built into the price cap.
Ofgem reduces typical domestic consumption values used in price caps
Ofgem has cut the typical domestic consumption values used to calculate price cap bills, reducing assumed annual gas use by 17 per cent and electricity use by 7 per cent.
Prepayment meter customers no longer face the highest energy costs
Ofgem and Citizens Advice research finds prepayment meter customers have not faced the highest energy costs since July 2023, with satisfaction reaching a record 81% in January 2025.
Prepayment meter premium ended
From 1 July 2023 households on prepayment meters are no longer charged more for their energy than direct debit customers, ending a long-standing price premium.
Prepayment price penalty ends for prepayment customers
Legislation effective 1 July 2023 ends the prepayment price penalty, so households on prepayment meters should no longer pay more than Direct Debit customers, saving an estimated £45 a year on average.
Price cap becomes default price as it drops below Energy Price Guarantee level
The price cap became the default price for Great Britain on 1 July 2023 after it fell below the Energy Price Guarantee, which had held the average household bill at £2,500.
Energy Bills and the Price CapStatisticsRules and Regulation
Price cap fell below EPG levels
The July 2023 price cap fell to £1,976, below the Energy Price Guarantee level, so household bills fell for the first time in almost three years and the guarantee stopped being a cost to government.
Revised EPC regulations planned for Winter 2023-24
The Scottish Government has consulted on reforming Energy Performance Certificates, proposing a shorter validity period and new metrics, with revised regulations planned for the Scottish Parliament in Winter 2023-24.
Scottish Government launches EPC reform consultation
The Scottish Government consulted on reforming Energy Performance Certificates between July and October 2023, and its analysis of the 323 responses was published on 23 January 2025.
Solution for meter-to-IHD signal distance issues to be deployed
The energy industry has developed a technical fix for smart meter signals that fail to reach in-home displays in flats and other properties where the meter sits far from the home, with deployment from July 2023.
New technology expected to extend smart meter eligibility to more than 99% of homes
Government expects a technical fix for hard-to-reach sites such as high-rise flats to lift smart meter coverage above 99% of homes from July 2023, subject to pilot results.
- June 2023
EBSS voucher redemption deadline
The deadline for redeeming Energy Bills Support Scheme vouchers passed at 11.59pm on 30 June 2023, with official data showing high levels of unclaimed payments in some of the poorest constituencies.
Energy Price Guarantee scheme closed
The Energy Price Guarantee, which discounted unit rates for every household with a domestic gas or electricity contract, closed on 30 June 2023 after nine months of operation.
Energy Bills and the Price CapRules and RegulationGrants and Schemes
Final date to activate EBSS prepayment vouchers
Prepayment meter customers have until 30 June 2023 to activate Energy Bills Support Scheme vouchers, including replacement vouchers issued after an earlier one expired.
Price cap falls below the Energy Price Guarantee level
Ofgem's price cap fell below the government's Energy Price Guarantee on 1 July 2023, so the cap once again sets maximum prices for direct debit and standard credit customers.
Future Homes Leadership Council launches with first meeting
The Future Homes Leadership Council, made up of chief executives from homebuilders including the largest eight, held its first meeting on 29 June 2023 and agreed actions on sharing, roadmap development and communications.
National Grid ESO to use HOMEflex Code of Conduct in Winter 23/24 Demand Flexibility Service
National Grid ESO will use the HOMEflex Code of Conduct in its Winter 23/24 Demand Flexibility Service, ahead of the schedule set for the domestic flexibility project.
CCC says confidence in UK meeting goals from 2030 onwards markedly less than a year ago
The Climate Change Committee says its confidence in the UK meeting its climate goals from 2030 onwards is markedly lower than a year ago, despite the Government publishing over 3,000 pages of new net zero detail.
Government grants service fully launched
The Cabinet Office has removed the pilot label from its Find government grants service, saying the tool has fully launched and is open to individuals as well as organisations.
Ofgem launches statutory consultation on involuntary prepayment meters
Ofgem has opened a statutory consultation to make prepayment meter protections mandatory in suppliers' licence conditions, and has proposed a £13 allowance in the prepayment price cap for bad debt recovery.
Statutory consultation on Involuntary PPM opens
Ofgem opened a statutory consultation on 28 June 2023 on plans to write its Involuntary Prepayment Meter Code of Practice into supply licence conditions and guidance.
Scottish Government withdraws standalone solar PV and storage eligibility from Home Energy Scotland loans
The Scottish Government has stopped Home Energy Scotland loans for standalone solar panels and energy storage, with applications now accepted only when bundled with a heat pump or high heat retention storage heaters.
Grants and SchemesScotland, Wales and Northern IrelandWhere to Start
Committee on Fuel Poverty publishes annual report and NEA responds
National Energy Action has responded to the Committee on Fuel Poverty's annual report, warning that the least efficient homes face heating bills of around £4,000 to £5,000 a year and that England's efficiency targets are decades behind schedule.
Parliamentary answer reports Alternative Fuel Payment delivery figures
The Department for Energy Security and Net Zero has told Parliament that the Alternative Fuel Payment delivered £200 to around 2 million off-gas-grid households, with over 85% paid automatically in February.
Grants and SchemesEnergy Bills and the Price CapYour Type of Home
Publication of analysis on impact of energy and cost of living support measures across UK nations
The Department for Levelling Up, Housing and Communities has published estimates of the cost of UK government energy and cost of living support in Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland and its effect on household incomes.
Directions No. 2 issued for domestic gas and electricity suppliers
The Secretary of State has issued Directions No. 2 for domestic gas and electricity suppliers in Northern Ireland, revoking the December directions that restricted when tariff changes could be made.
NIBE's F2040 air source heat pump upgraded as F2050 is announced
NIBE has announced the F2050 air source heat pump as an upgrade to its F2040 model, in a product update listed on the manufacturer's UK news page.
Hypervolt consumption reports fully released to all users
Hypervolt has completed the full rollout of its 4.3.0 app release, enabling consumption report generation for every user of its charge points.
Ofgem published ECO4 Guidance: New Measures and Products V1.1
Ofgem has published version 1.1 of its ECO4 guidance on new measures and products, setting out how suppliers can apply to deliver technologies not yet recognised under standard scheme rules.
Research published on Warm Homes Fund savings
Newcastle University and partners have published an evaluation of the Warm Homes Fund, finding average household energy running cost savings of £922 a year and total bill savings of £10.8 million.
Citizens Advice publishes research on benefits of retrofitting 13 million inefficient homes
Citizens Advice has published research estimating almost £40 billion in cumulative benefits from upgrading 13 million inefficient homes in Great Britain to EPC C by 2030.
MCS launches Scheme Redevelopment Consultation
MCS has welcomed Simply Certification as its newest contractor certification body and confirmed it is consulting on proposals to transform how the scheme operates.
Simply Certification becomes an MCS certification body
MCS has named Simply Certification as its newest contractor certification body, the second such appointment since 2022, licensed to assess heat pumps, solar PV and solar heating installations.
CMA publishes consumer protection report on green heating and insulation sector
The Competition and Markets Authority has published its consumer protection report on green heating and insulation, warning that poor information and weak quality assurance could deter households or lead to bad decisions.
Consultation on Great British Insulation Scheme and ECO4 amendment administration closes with 17 responses
Ofgem's consultation on how it will administer the Great British Insulation Scheme and amendments to ECO4 closed on 16 June 2023 with 17 responses from suppliers, installers and an energy efficiency body.
Rules and RegulationGrants and SchemesInsulation and Glazing
NEA responds to cross-party MP report on energy bill support
National Energy Action has responded to a cross-party committee report on government energy bill support, calling for unspent resources to be reinvested in targeted help for low-income households.
NIA forms National Home Decarbonisation Group for Tier 1 contractors
The National Insulation Association has incorporated a National Home Decarbonisation Group into its structure, creating a forum for Tier 1 contractors delivering large-scale residential retrofit.
NIA submits response to Ofgem's GBIS and ECO4 amendment administration consultation
The National Insulation Association has told Ofgem that the Great British Insulation Scheme should not limit households to a single measure, cap innovation measures or exclude England from the rural uplift.
Citizens Advice published a discussion paper on locational pricing
Citizens Advice has published a discussion paper on locational pricing, weighing whether varying wholesale electricity prices by location could benefit consumers or expose households to new risks.
Summary of response published for Warm Homes Programme consultation
The Welsh Government has published a summary of responses, a policy statement and a review and recommendations report for the next iteration of the Warm Homes Programme, two years after the consultation closed.
Grants and SchemesRules and RegulationScotland, Wales and Northern Ireland
Warm Homes Programme policy statement published
The Welsh Government has published a policy statement for its next Warm Homes Programme, alongside a lessons learned report and its response to last year's consultation, with the current Nest contract extended to avoid a gap in provision.
Department for Infrastructure announces changes to permitted development rights for domestic heat pumps
Northern Ireland's Department for Infrastructure has amended permitted development rights so domestic air source heat pumps no longer need planning permission, subject to conditions, from 4 July 2023.
Ofgem publishes decision statement on Great British Insulation scheme and ECO4 LA and Supplier Flex administration
Ofgem has published its decision on how the Great British Insulation Scheme and ECO4 Flex will be administered, after a consultation that drew 16 responses from councils, suppliers and installers.
Rules and RegulationGrants and SchemesInsulation and Glazing
SSEN cancels planned outages in north of Scotland ahead of lightning risk
SSEN Distribution cancelled all major planned outages across the north of Scotland on 12 June 2023 as a precaution against forecast lightning, and put additional teams in place to handle faults.
Which? publishes response to Ofgem consumer standards consultation
Which? has published its response to Ofgem's consultation on a framework for consumer standards and options to address priority customer service issues, citing a consistent decline in satisfaction with energy companies.
Sunamp and Trianco launch ActivAir Plus heat pump and heat battery package
Sunamp will supply its Thermino heat batteries to Trianco for the ActivAir Plus package, which pairs an air source heat pump with a heat battery and is now available nationwide.
Sunsynk announces 3.07 kWh Mini Battery with 7kW MPPT Bi-Directional Inverter
Sunsynk has published details of a 3.07 kWh lithium iron phosphate Mini Battery paired with a 7kW MPPT bi-directional inverter, describing plug and play installation with cables and protection built in.
New Build Heat Standard regulations laid in the Scottish Parliament
Scottish ministers have laid regulations for the New Build Heat Standard, which from 1 April 2024 will bar direct emissions heating in new buildings in Scotland.
Rules and RegulationHeat PumpsScotland, Wales and Northern Ireland
NBHS regulations laid in the Scottish Parliament
Scottish ministers have laid regulations for the New Build Heat Standard, prohibiting direct emissions heating in new buildings from 1 April 2024, after a consultation that drew 112 responses.
MCS to publish consultation on proposed changes to its scheme
MCS has opened a six-week consultation on proposed changes to its certification scheme, saying the redevelopment would strengthen consumer safeguards in small-scale renewables.
Aerona Smart Controller previewed at InstallerSHOW
Grant UK previewed its Aerona Smart Controller for Aerona³ heat pumps at InstallerSHOW in June 2023, a weather compensated control with a 4.5 inch touch screen and remote monitoring.
British Assessment Bureau becomes UKAS accredited
MCS has appointed the British Assessment Bureau as a certification body for small-scale renewables, after the bureau gained UKAS accreditation in June 2023 to assess contractors against MCS standards.
Consultation on Clean Heat Market Mechanism closes
The government has finished consulting on the Clean Heat Market Mechanism, which would require boiler sellers to sell a quota of heat pumps for every boiler sold.
ECO4 and Scheme in-fill blending not enabled
The government has confirmed the Great British Insulation Scheme will run from 2023 to 2026 with in-fill allowed as consulted, but without any function for blending measures between ECO4 and the new scheme.
Energy Price Guarantee ended
The Energy Price Guarantee kept household gas and electricity prices constant from October 2022 until June 2023, after which Ofgem's price cap again set the maximum prices suppliers could charge.
Energy Bills and the Price CapStatisticsRules and Regulation
Energy Price Guarantee extended at the same level to the end of June 2023
The Energy Price Guarantee was extended at the same level for three months from April to the end of June 2023, keeping a typical Great Britain household bill at around £2,500 a year.
Fuse Energy launches as first new supplier after the energy crisis
Fuse Energy launched in 2023 as the first new supplier to enter the UK market after the energy crisis, founded by former Revolut executives and now rated in Which? rankings for the first time.
Government confirms two eligibility groups for the Great British Insulation Scheme
The government has confirmed that the Great British Insulation Scheme will target two eligibility groups, with Council Tax band limits set per nation and an EPC of D or below for the general group.
Home Energy Scotland Grant and Loan opened
The Home Energy Scotland Grant and Loan opened in June 2023, offering homeowners up to £7,500 in grant funding plus an optional interest-free loan of the same amount.
Home Energy Scotland withdraws stand-alone solar loans without warning
Home Energy Scotland withdrew stand-alone loans for solar energy systems on homes in summer 2023 without warning, and stopped loans for solar panels and batteries altogether a year later.
Grants and SchemesScotland, Wales and Northern IrelandRules and Regulation
Keston launches Combi 2 and System 2 twin flue boiler range
Keston has launched the Combi 2 and System 2 twin flue boiler range, offering flue runs up to 27m, colour screen controls, hydrogen blend operation and warranties of up to seven years.
MCS consulted on significant reforms aimed at improving quality and consumer protection
MCS consulted in June 2023 on reforms to improve quality and consumer protection, restructuring its relationships with consumers, installers and certification bodies, including removing the requirement for contractors to hold membership of a CTSI approved consumer code.
MCS launches Scheme Redevelopment Consultation proposing to end mandatory Consumer Code membership
MCS has opened a consultation on redeveloping its scheme, proposing to drop mandatory Consumer Code membership for certified installers in favour of a new customer duty.
Octopus completes acquisition of Bulb
Octopus Energy completed its acquisition of Bulb in June 2023, following the supplier's 2021 insolvency and a period in special administration, according to Ofgem's Smart Export Guarantee annual report.
Ofgem consults on Code to prevent involuntary PPM installations for vulnerable consumers
Ofgem has opened a statutory consultation on making its Involuntary Prepayment Meter Code of Practice binding licence conditions, with the aim of having the protections in place for winter 2023/24.
Rules and RegulationEnergy Bills and the Price CapEnergy Suppliers
Ofgem consults on integrating PPM Code of Practice into licence and guidance
Ofgem has opened a statutory consultation on plans to write its Involuntary Prepayment Meter Code of Practice into the supply licence, with a response deadline of 26 July 2023.
Ofgem consults on new SLC requirements for involuntary PPM installations
Ofgem has opened a statutory consultation on licence changes that would put its Involuntary Prepayment Meter Code of Practice into the supply licence, with responses due by 26 July 2023.
Publication of Nick Winser's independent report on Accelerating Electricity Transmission Network Deployment
Nick Winser's independent report on accelerating electricity transmission network deployment was published in June 2023, setting out the need for unprecedented development of Britain's transmission infrastructure.
Revised Part L energy efficiency rules apply in full in England
Revised Part L energy efficiency rules for new homes in England have applied in full since June 2023, and industry figures show the share of newbuilds fitted with solar panels rose from 13% to 42% by late 2024.
Rural uplift set at 20% for Scotland and Wales only
The government has confirmed that its new Great British Insulation Scheme will carry a 20% rural off-gas uplift in Scotland and Wales for low-income households, below the 35% uplift under ECO4.
Scottish Government publishes analysis of New Build Heat Standard Part II consultation responses
The Scottish Government has published its analysis of responses to the second New Build Heat Standard consultation, showing broad support for banning direct emissions heating in new homes from April 2024 alongside concerns about grid capacity and costs.
Rules and RegulationScotland, Wales and Northern IrelandBoilers and Heating
Self-referral service for the Great British Insulation Scheme planned for summer 2023 on GOV.UK
The government has confirmed it plans to launch a self-referral service on GOV.UK in summer 2023 so households can learn about and access the Great British Insulation Scheme.
Shell announces exit from UK domestic energy market
Shell announced in summer 2023 that it would sell its UK domestic energy business to Octopus and leave the household supply market, a process completed on 1 December 2023.
Susan Walker's JA Solar system installed in Scotland
A 4.4kWp JA Solar system with battery storage was installed at a home in Scotland in June 2023 at a total cost of £12,837, according to the owner's account of the installation.
Wales eligibility expanded to Council Tax bands A-E
The government has widened Great British Insulation Scheme eligibility in Wales from Council Tax bands A to C to bands A to E, raising the share of eligible Welsh homes from 57% to 87%.
Warmer Homes Scotland contract due to expire
Scottish Government screening assessment confirms the Warmer Homes Scotland contract expires on 30 June 2023, with a successor national scheme due to start three days later on 3 July 2023.
Grants and SchemesYour Type of HomeScotland, Wales and Northern Ireland
Warranty periods apply to products installed on or after 1 June 2023
Sigenergy has published a factory limited warranty for its SigenStor home battery and inverter range, with ten-year product cover for most units installed on or after 1 June 2023.
- May 2023
EBSS alternative funding scheme closes to new applications
The Energy Bills Support Scheme alternative funding route, which paid £600 to households in Northern Ireland without a direct electricity supplier relationship, closed to new applications on 31 May 2023.
NEA publishes response to Ofgem consultation on consumer standards framework
National Energy Action has published its response to Ofgem's consultation on a framework for consumer standards, calling for more prescriptive regulation of energy supplier customer service.
Great British Insulation Scheme scores matrix published
Ofgem published the first Great British Insulation Scheme scores matrix on 30 May 2023, setting out the scores energy companies receive for measures installed under the scheme.
Prepayment meter regional rates for July to September 2023 added
The government has added Energy Price Guarantee regional unit rates for prepayment meters covering July to September 2023 to its published rates page.
National Home Decarbonisation Group formed by NIA
The National Insulation Association has formed the National Home Decarbonisation Group, a new membership body for large-scale residential retrofit with 17 founding members and Gemserv as its secretariat.
Next quarterly price cap update due 25 May 2023
Ofgem has confirmed that its next quarterly update to the energy price cap will be published on 25 May 2023, setting the level that applies from 1 July.
Ofgem sets July to September price cap at £2,074
Ofgem has set the default tariff price cap for 1 July to 30 September 2023 at £2,074 a year for a typical dual fuel direct debit household, down from £3,280.
SMMT reports quadrupling of BEV model choice and 25.6% rise in BEV registrations
The Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders reports that battery electric car model choice has quadrupled in five years and that new BEV registrations rose 25.6 per cent year on year.
Teneo reports estimated Octopus repayment of £2.8 billion
Teneo, the special administrator for Bulb Energy, reported on 25 May 2023 that Octopus Energy is estimated to owe the government £2.8 billion after buying the failed supplier.
Coalition submits joint written evidence to Energy Bill Public Bill Committee
The Warm This Winter coalition has told the Energy Bill Public Bill Committee that the Bill should be amended to cut bills and speed up net zero, in written evidence published on 24 May 2023.
Over 80 per cent of Energy Bill Support Scheme prepayment vouchers redeemed
Which? says over 80 per cent of Energy Bill Support Scheme vouchers for traditional prepayment meter customers have been redeemed, and calls for the remaining households to be reached before 30 June 2023.
Which? urges households to get lost or expired EBSS vouchers reissued before 30 June 2023 deadline
Which? has said lost, missing or expired Energy Bill Support Scheme vouchers for traditional prepayment meter customers can still be reissued and redeemed until 30 June 2023.
Panasonic launches Aquarea K Generation All in One heat pumps in T-CAP and High Performance variants
Panasonic has brought the All in One units of its Aquarea K Generation heat pump range to market in T-CAP and High Performance variants, with a seasonal efficiency figure of up to 5.12.
E.ON-led consortium awarded Green Home Finance Accelerator funding
DESNZ has awarded Green Home Finance Accelerator funding to an E.ON-led consortium with Energy Systems Catapult and Heatio to pilot Heat as a Service and Energy as a Service products.
Coalition first warns of return of PPMs scandal
The End Fuel Poverty Coalition has written to Energy Secretary Claire Coutinho warning that the prepayment meter scandal could return, and asking for forced installations to be banned outright.
Rinnai UK launches free heating and hot water system design service
Rinnai UK has launched a free service that designs heating and hot water systems around a property's specific requirements, contactable by email or telephone.
BEAMA launches Future Homes Standard Phase 1 Impact Report
BEAMA has published the first phase of a two-part report on how new homes will meet the Future Homes Standard, setting out technology options and the enablers needed before 2025.
NEA responds to Ofgem call for input on debt-related costs allowance in price cap
National Energy Action has published its response to Ofgem's call for input on the allowance for debt-related costs within the energy price cap, addressing over-allocation, cost levelisation and consumer outcomes.
NIA responds to PAS 2030/2035 draft for public comment
The National Insulation Association has backed the draft revisions to the PAS 2035 and PAS 2030 retrofit standards but told the consultation that industry needs a reasonable transition period before they take effect.
ECIU analysis finds UK homes heavily dependent on foreign gas under Government plans
ECIU analysis says current Government policies could leave UK homes sending £500 a year to overseas gas producers by 2035, with import dependency rising to 85%.
Citizens Advice responds to Ofgem consultation on Severe Weather Compensation amendments
Citizens Advice has backed Ofgem's proposed changes to severe weather compensation rules for power cuts, but says the draft should go further on who is protected and how payments are made.
External Wall Insulation innovation measure approved
Ofgem has approved an external wall insulation innovation measure under ECO4, with the InstaClad Robust EWI system approved under that measure on the same date.
Government responds to petition on unmetered tariff for elderly and disabled
The Government told petitioners on 11 May 2023 that it intends to consult on options for consumer energy protection in summer 2023, for measures applying from April 2024.
Netatmo launches the Smart AC Controller
Netatmo has released a Smart AC Controller that adds app, voice and schedule control to air conditioners and air-to-air heat pumps fitted with an infrared remote, priced at 119.99 euros.
Ofgem opens consultation on administration of Great British Insulation Scheme and ECO4 amendments
Ofgem opened a five-week consultation on 11 May 2023 on how it would administer the Great British Insulation Scheme and amendments to ECO4, closing on 16 June 2023.
Rules and RegulationGrants and SchemesInsulation and Glazing
MCS expanded the scope of the Solar Mounting Product Standard
MCS widened its Solar Mounting Product Standard in May 2023 to cover flat roof mounting systems, and has since extended the interim compliance route installers use while certification catches up.
Solis launches S6 Advanced Power Hybrid Inverter
Solis has announced the launch of the S6 Advanced Power Hybrid Inverter, a unit with generator connectivity, automatic UPS switching and support for both lead-acid and lithium batteries.
Energy Bill second reading in House of Commons
The Energy Bill reaches its second reading in the House of Commons on 9 May, with campaigners pressing MPs to add powers banning the forced transfer of households onto prepayment meters.
New inquiry launched on sustainable electrification of the UK economy
The Environmental Audit Committee has opened an inquiry into the barriers stopping low-carbon technologies connecting to the grid, with written evidence due by 17:00 on Thursday 1 June.
MPs call for grid improvements and affordable household loans for solar
The Environmental Audit Committee has urged the Government to consult on affordable household loans for solar and extend the VAT discount to household battery storage, while warning that grid connection delays are holding back progress.
Ofgem publishes policy consultation on consumer standards options
Ofgem has published a Stage 1 policy consultation on options to address priority customer service issues, the first step in a process that led to new supply licence conditions.
British Gas Energy Trust Individual and Family fund opens for applications
The British Gas Energy Trust reopened its Individual and Family fund on 2 May 2023, offering grants of up to £2,000 to clear energy arrears for households in England, Scotland and Wales.
Hypervolt launches beta of energy consumption reports in app version 4.3.0
Hypervolt has opened a 50-place beta of version 4.3.0 of its app, letting owners of its chargers generate energy usage reports for claiming back charging costs.
Ban on traditional house coal sales in England takes effect
Selling traditional house coal for use in English homes became illegal on 1 May 2023, under rules that also restrict wet wood and set emission limits for stoves.
CMA publishes findings on consumer protection in the green heating and insulation sector
The Competition and Markets Authority found in May 2023 that households buying green heating and insulation face a complex and confusing standards landscape and gaps in consumer protection.
Digital service updated so all application stages can be completed digitally
Ofgem has reported that further improvements to the Boiler Upgrade Scheme digital service in May 2023 allow installers to complete every stage of an application online.
Energy firms holding £280m of unclaimed Energy Bills Support Scheme payments
More than four million Energy Bills Support Scheme payments worth almost £280 million were still to be made or redeemed for October 2022 to February 2023, figures reported in the Mail on Sunday show.
Grants and SchemesEnergy Bills and the Price CapEnergy Suppliers
New energy price cap set at £2,074, below the price guarantee level
Ofgem has confirmed a new energy price cap of £2,074 for an average annual bill, below the £2,500 level of the Energy Price Guarantee, cutting household costs by around £420.
First Minister announces Fuel Insecurity Fund tripled to £30 million for 2023-24
First Minister Humza Yousaf has tripled Scotland's Fuel Insecurity Fund to £30 million for 2023-24, saying it will help households at risk of self-rationing or self-disconnecting their energy use.
Ofgem commits to central role in grid connection reform
Ofgem has committed to taking a central role in driving progress on reform of grid connection arrangements, the Welsh Government's draft heat strategy records.
Ofgem issues Call for Input relevant to debt-related cost allowance
Ofgem has opened a consultation on the operating cost allowances inside the energy price cap, including the debt-related costs allowance, with responses due by 14 June 2024.
Ofgem signals holistic review of operating cost allowances
Ofgem has concluded its first full review of the operating cost and debt allowances inside the energy price cap, cutting the total allowance by an average of £8 per customer.
Panasonic Aquarea L Generation heat pumps available from spring 2023
Panasonic has confirmed that its Aquarea L Generation heat pumps, which use the natural refrigerant R290 with a global warming potential of 3, are available from spring 2023.
Scottish Government announces £10m extension of Fuel Insecurity Fund
The Scottish Government has extended its Fuel Insecurity Fund by £10m, a scheme that has written off millions in household energy debt and issued thousands of fuel vouchers.
SSEN begins £10.6m Alton and Bordon network upgrade
SSEN has started a £10.6m programme of works to upgrade electricity supplies in Alton and Bordon, running from 1 May 2023 until September 2024.
SSEN updates Data Privacy Plan
Scottish and Southern Electricity Networks reviewed and updated its Data Privacy Plan in May 2023 to cover changes to how it collects, holds, aggregates and publishes smart meter consumption data.
UKGBC publishes consultation response on VAT energy saving materials relief
The UK Green Building Council has responded to an HM Treasury call for evidence on VAT relief for energy saving materials, welcoming the expanded relief and pressing for it to cover more technologies.
VAT ESM relief extended to Northern Ireland on 1 May 2023
The temporary VAT zero rate on installing energy-saving materials was extended to Northern Ireland on 1 May 2023 under the Windsor Framework, aligning its VAT treatment with Great Britain.
Which? publishes appliance running costs research
Which? research published on 1 May 2023 found the annual running cost of a typical set of household appliances rose 58 per cent between October 2021 and April 2023, from £283 to £447.
Which? publishes principles for clear energy customer communications
Which? has published a policy report setting out five principles for energy suppliers to make billing and direct debit communications clearer, based on a survey of 2,082 UK adults.
Wind and water turbines added to qualifying ESMs and 60% test removed
Wind and water turbines become permanently qualifying energy-saving materials and the 60% test and social policy conditions are permanently removed, with a temporary zero rate extended to Northern Ireland from 1 May 2023.
Zero rate for air source heat pumps extended to Northern Ireland
From 1 May 2023 the temporary zero rate of VAT on air source heat pumps and other qualifying energy-saving materials applies across the whole United Kingdom, including Northern Ireland.
Grants and SchemesHeat PumpsScotland, Wales and Northern Ireland
- April 2023
Consultation on Great British Insulation scheme LA and Supplier Flex administration closes
Ofgem's consultation on how the Great British Insulation Scheme and ECO4 Flex will be administered closed on 28 April 2023, drawing 16 responses from local authorities, suppliers and others.
Rules and RegulationGrants and SchemesInsulation and Glazing
ECO+ renamed Great British Insulation Scheme and consultation response published
The government has renamed its ECO+ insulation programme the Great British Insulation Scheme and confirmed its eligibility rules, supplier targets and ECO4 changes in a consultation response.
Indra launches Smart LUX home EV charger
Indra has launched the Smart LUX, a UK-designed home EV charger with a 78mm profile, IP67 and IK10 ratings, a five-year warranty and 7.4kWh charging.
Sunsynk introduces 3.6kW hybrid inverter "Mini Beast"
Sunsynk has announced a 3.6kW hybrid inverter, marketed as the Mini Beast, with dual MPPT input and a stated solar handling capacity of up to 7000W.
Which? responds to news that a fifth of EBSS prepayment vouchers remain unredeemed
Which? has said a fifth of Energy Bill Support Scheme vouchers for traditional prepayment meter customers remain unredeemed, and called for action in the scheme's final weeks.
Citizens Advice published its application to intervene in the RIIO-ED2 appeal
Citizens Advice has applied to intervene in a Competition and Markets Authority appeal by Northern Powergrid over the RIIO-ED2 energy licence modification, arguing the appeal would raise consumer bills without improving service.
SOPREMA expands external pitched roof insulation range with Breathe-R and Breathe-R Ultra
SOPREMA UK has added two membranes, Breathe-R and Breathe-R Ultra, to its external pitched roof insulation range, sitting below the existing BreatherQuilt product.
ECIU report warns UK energy security incompatible with high gas demand
The Energy & Climate Intelligence Unit has published a report warning that the Government's energy security aim cannot be met while gas demand stays high, as North Sea production declines.
Energy Bill passes latest House of Lords stage with hydrogen levy amendment
The House of Lords has backed an amendment stopping energy firms passing hydrogen development costs to bill payers, but rejected a ban on forced entry to convert homes to hydrogen.
SSEN completes £710,000 Lynes Common network upgrade in Hythe
SSEN has completed a £710,000 upgrade of switchgear at Lynes Common in Hythe, replacing equipment that had reached the end of its working life and serving 20,000 homes and businesses.
All British domestic suppliers sign updated Code of Practice on involuntary prepayment meter installations
Ofgem has published an updated voluntary Code of Practice on involuntary prepayment meter installations, signed by all British domestic suppliers, with tougher oversight and new protections for high-risk households.
Rules and RegulationEnergy Bills and the Price CapSmart Meters
NEA warns many vulnerable groups still face uncertainty under new prepayment meter code
National Energy Action has welcomed Ofgem's new prepayment meter code of practice as much needed, but warns that many vulnerable groups still face the threat of forced installation or remote switching.
Rules and RegulationEnergy Bills and the Price CapSmart Meters
Product page published for Zappi 207UW V2 myenergi 7kW EV charger
Orion AC&R Limited has published a product page for the Zappi 207UW V2 myenergi 7kW EV charger, setting out its three charging modes, solar and wind integration and technical ratings.
Sunsynk announces UK Mini Beast inverter
Sunsynk has published details of the UK Mini Beast, a dual MPPT hybrid inverter rated at 3,600 Watts with on grid, off grid and auxiliary outputs.
Voluntary Code of Conduct to prevent forced PPM installations announced
Energy suppliers signed a voluntary code of conduct on 18 April 2023 intended to stop the forced installation of prepayment meters, a measure campaigners say does not go far enough.
Rules and RegulationEnergy Bills and the Price CapSmart Meters
£30 million Heat Pump Investment Accelerator launched
The Energy Plan of April 2023 set out a £30 million Heat Pump Investment Accelerator and extended the Boiler Upgrade Scheme to 2028, alongside a new insulation scheme for 300,000 homes.
Boiler Upgrade Scheme extended until 2028
The Boiler Upgrade Scheme will run until 2028 under the Government's Powering Up Britain Energy Security Plan, keeping grants of up to £6,000 towards a heat pump in England and Wales.
Great British Insulation Scheme announced, replacing ECO+
The government's Powering Up Britain energy security plan includes the Great British Insulation Scheme, formerly ECO+, to upgrade 300,000 of the least energy efficient homes, and extends the Boiler Upgrade Scheme to 2028.
Evidence period for Alternative Fuel Payment applications extended by 3 months to June 2022
Grant Shapps extended the Alternative Fuel Payment evidence window back to June 2022, so households that bought heating oil, LPG, biomass or solid fuel in bulk before winter can still claim £200.
Grants and SchemesEnergy Bills and the Price CapYour Type of Home
Government launches Clean heat market mechanism consultation
The government has opened a consultation on its Clean heat market mechanism, seeking views on a market-based scheme intended to grow the number of heat pumps installed in existing premises.
OVO and Kaluza launch Charge Anytime EV smart charging add-on
OVO and Kaluza have launched Charge Anytime, an EV charging add-on priced at 10p per kWh and billed separately from household electricity, with charging optimised by Kaluza's software.
Survey finds 9 in 10 rural off-gas-grid homes say green heating plans treat them unfairly
A survey of 1,500 oil-heated homes finds 90 per cent believe the government's green heating proposals treat off-gas-grid households unfairly, as trade bodies press for a choice of low carbon options.
Government publishes heat pump net zero investment roadmap
The government has published a heat pump investment roadmap setting out an expectation of at least 600,000 installations a year by 2028 and up to £28 billion of supply chain investment.
Ofgem consults on Great British Insulation scheme LA and Supplier Flex administration
Ofgem has opened a three-week consultation on how it would run Local Authority and Supplier Flex under the Great British Insulation Scheme, and on possible changes to ECO4 Flex administration.
Which? warns low-income households face £209 shortfall and calls for social tariff
Which? research published on 4 April 2023 estimates the poorest tenth of UK households will spend an average of £209 more on energy this financial year and calls for a targeted social tariff.
Your Type of HomeGrants and SchemesEnergy Bills and the Price Cap
Heat Pump Investment Roadmap published
The government has published a Heat Pump Investment Roadmap setting out how it intends to grow UK heat pump installations from 55,000 a year in 2021 to 600,000 a year by 2028.
Additional wholesale risk allowance to revert to single 1% value
Ofgem has confirmed that the additional wholesale risk allowance in the energy price cap will revert to a single 1% value from 1 April 2023, ending a temporary split introduced to prevent supplier over-recovery.
Analysis reveals regional gaps in Energy Bills Support Scheme delivery
Analysis of the first five months of the Energy Bills Support Scheme shows missed or unredeemed payments above four per cent in several areas of high fuel poverty, with £241m still owed.
BEAMA publishes Phase 1 Future Homes Standard impact report
BEAMA has published Version 1.1 of its Phase 1 Network-to-Emitter Impact Report, setting out the technologies expected in new homes under the 2025 Future Homes Standard.
Budget 2023 equalises prepayment meter and direct debit prices
The Spring Budget 2023 confirmed that prepayment meter prices would match direct debit prices from April 2023, ending the long-standing premium paid by households who top up.
ChargeUK launched with 19 members and £6 billion investment commitment
ChargeUK launched in April 2023 with 19 member companies, announcing £6 billion of investment and plans to double the number of UK charge points within 12 months.
New Child Benefit evidence requirements take effect
Ofgem's ECO4 delivery guidance v1.1 confirms that new evidence requirements for the Child Benefit eligibility route take effect from 1 April 2023, alongside clarifications on Solar PV, LA Flex evidence, hybrid heat pumps and electric heating.
Constituency fuel poverty estimates published on basis of £3,000 average annual household energy bill
The End Fuel Poverty Coalition has published modelled fuel poverty estimates for every English Parliamentary constituency, based on the average household energy bill reaching £3,000 a year from 1 April 2023.
Deadline for Government to renew net zero policies after court ruling
The UK Green Building Council says the Government has until April 2023 to renew and reissue net zero policies found unlawful by the courts, and that most built environment policy areas are failing.
Electricity-to-gas price ratio fell to 3.2 under the Energy Price Guarantee
Nesta analysis finds the electricity-to-gas price ratio reached a low of about 3.2 in April 2023 under the Energy Price Guarantee, against 3.5 under the default tariff cap.
Energy efficiency funding to open in April
Details have been published of how £630m will be spent through the Home Upgrade Grant and £780m through the Social Housing Decarbonisation Fund, with funding available from April for insulation, glazing, heat pumps and solar panels.
Energy price cap due to rise in April 2023
The National Insulation Association has told a government consultation that a further 20% rise to the energy price cap was expected in April 2023, as it pressed for faster delivery of insulation under the ECO+ scheme.
Energy price cap falls to £3,280 for a typical dual fuel direct debit household
The energy price cap for a typical dual fuel household paying by direct debit fell to £3,280 on 1 April 2023, down almost £1,000 from the previous level.
Energy Bills and the Price CapStatisticsRules and Regulation
Energy price cap support level changes from 1 April
Research for the Warm This Winter campaign finds 29 per cent of people in debt to their energy supplier as the Chancellor's price cap extension takes effect on 1 April.
New energy supplier obligation to start from April 2023
Energy suppliers will be obliged from April 2023 to help customers cut bills under legislation announced in the Growth Plan, worth £1 billion over three years.
Feed-in Tariffs (Amendment) Order 2023 came into force
The Feed-in Tariffs (Amendment) Order 2023 came into force on 1 April 2023, removing green import exemptions from the FIT scheme and applying them for FIT Scheme Year 14 and each subsequent FIT year.
flexi-2023 cost components change at 1 April 2023
ScottishPower has published revised third party cost components for its flexi-2023 variable tariff from 1 April 2023, with Transmission Network Use of System moving from the unit rate into the daily standing charge.
Funding support for energy saving measures expanded
Funding support for energy saving measures, until now usually limited to low income or benefit-claiming households, is being expanded to more people from April 2023, according to the Centre for Alternative Technology.
GB socialised network reinforcement costs for low carbon technologies
Ofgem's Access Significant Code Review decision means that from April 2023 the costs of reinforcing electricity networks for low carbon technologies installed in existing buildings will normally be shared across all billpayers.
GBIS allowance included in the default tariff cap from April 2023
Ofgem has included an allowance for the Great British Insulation Scheme in the default tariff cap from April 2023, passing the cost of the renamed ECO+ scheme to billpayers.
GivEnergy SME Battery Cabinet datasheet issued
GivEnergy has published an April 2023 datasheet for its SME Battery Cabinet, a 64kWh lithium iron phosphate storage unit that scales to 256kWh and is also offered for large domestic sites.
Great British Insulation Scheme introduced by Energy Secretary Grant Shapps
Energy Secretary Grant Shapps introduced the Great British Insulation Scheme, targeting homes in Council Tax bands A to D with lower energy efficiency ratings, alongside a three-year extension of the Boiler Upgrade Scheme.
Money Advice Trust research finds 5.5 million UK adults in energy bills debt
Money Advice Trust research estimates 5.5 million UK adults are in energy bills debt, with 2.1 million more people in arrears in April 2023 than in March 2022.
NBHS regulations to pass through Parliament
The Scottish Government has set out plans to ban direct emissions heating systems in new buildings from April 2024, with regulations expected to pass through Parliament in spring 2023.
Next iteration of Warm Homes Programme to start
The Welsh Government has confirmed that the next iteration of its Warm Homes Programme will begin in April 2023, continuing advice and efficiency support for lower income households in Wales.
Grants and SchemesYour Type of HomeScotland, Wales and Northern Ireland
Ofgem next network price control begins, running five years
Ofgem's next electricity network price control began in April 2023 and runs for five years, setting the charges that fund the wires and cables delivering power to homes.
Ofgem price cap change brings highest standing charges since 2019
Ofgem's price cap from 1 April 2023 brings the highest standing charges since the cap began in 2019, up 64%, as National Energy Action warns 7.5 million households will be in fuel poverty.
Ofgem publishes Involuntary PPM Code of Practice agreed with suppliers
Ofgem has published an Involuntary Prepayment Meter Code of Practice, agreed with suppliers, setting out when customers may be moved onto prepayment meters without consent and how they must be treated.
Rules and RegulationEnergy Bills and the Price CapSmart Meters
UK Power Networks launches independent DSO
UK Power Networks launched the country's first independent Distribution System Operator in April 2023, separating the body that plans its network from the one that runs it.
Quarterly change to Flexi variable costs from 1 April 2023
ScottishPower has published the Flexi variable cost breakdown applying from 1 April 2023, showing a sharp fall in electricity distribution standing charges and a new transmission standing charge.
New rules require £30 starter credit on involuntary prepayment meter installations
From April 2023, suppliers installing a prepayment meter or switching a smart meter to prepay without consent must offer £30 credit or an equivalent non-disconnection period.
Rules and RegulationSmart MetersEnergy Bills and the Price Cap
Scenario modelling projects 920,000 fuel poor households from April 2023
Scottish Government modelling published on 30 May 2023 projects 920,000 fuel poor households in Scotland, 37 per cent of all households, from April 2023 once the £400 Energy Bills Support Scheme ends.
StatisticsScotland, Wales and Northern IrelandYour Type of Home
Simply Certification gains UKAS accreditation for MCS assessments
Simply Certification has become an MCS contractor certification body after gaining UKAS accreditation in April, widening the choice of assessors for small-scale renewable installations across the UK.
SolarEdge Home Battery 400V warranty revised
SolarEdge revised its Limited Warranty for the Home Battery 400V in April 2023, keeping a ten year term and 70 per cent energy retention while setting conditions on monitoring, throughput and shipping costs.
Standing charges reach new high, up 64%
Standing charges paid daily for grid access reached a new high on 1 April, up 64%, with almost half of the poorest households' energy spending now going on these fixed fees.
TCR removes time of use based TNUoS charges
Ofgem's Targeted Charging Review replaces the time of use element of transmission charges with a banded fixed charge from April 2023, cutting the revenue available from vehicle-to-grid tariff optimisation by around half.
Rules and RegulationNew TechnologyWhere Our Energy Comes From
- March 2023
Energy Bill Relief Scheme to end and be replaced by Energy Bills Discount Scheme
The Energy Bill Relief Scheme for non-domestic customers ends on 31 March 2023 and is replaced from April by the Energy Bills Discount Scheme, at a reduced rate of support.
Final consultation on ZEV mandate and CO2 emissions regulation published
The final consultation on the UK zero-emission vehicle mandate and CO2 emissions regulation for new cars and vans was published on 31 March 2023 and closed on 24 May.
Government response to Great British Insulation Scheme consultation published
The government published its response to the consultation on the Great British Insulation Scheme in March 2023, setting out the design of a supplier obligation later launched as a £1bn programme.
Rules and RegulationGrants and SchemesInsulation and Glazing
Government wholesale cost support for Bulb ends
Government funding of Bulb's wholesale energy costs under its Special Administration Regime ended on 31 March 2023, with the taxpayer bill estimated at £3.02 billion.
Phase 2 of Home Upgrade Grant begins
The second phase of the Home Upgrade Grant began in April 2023, with up to £700m allocated across English local authorities to fund energy efficiency upgrades and clean heating until March 2025.
Warmer Homes Scotland began using revised eligibility criteria
Warmer Homes Scotland moved to revised eligibility criteria in April 2023, after the first phase of applications closed on 31 March 2023 with referrals paused until October.
Government announces EV chargepoint funding and zero emission vehicle consultation
The government has set out plans for tens of thousands of new electric vehicle chargers and a consultation on zero emission vehicle sales requirements from 2024, alongside new insulation and heat pump funding.
Government announces extension of Boiler Upgrade Scheme until 2028
The government has announced a three-year extension of the Boiler Upgrade Scheme to 2028, alongside a £30 million heat pump investment accelerator and a new insulation scheme.
Government announces intention to extend BUS until 2028
The government announced on 30 March 2023 that it intends to extend the Boiler Upgrade Scheme beyond its original 2025 end date to 2028, as part of its Powering Up Britain plan.
Government announces rebalancing of gas and electricity costs
The Heat Pump Association has welcomed government plans to rebalance gas and electricity costs, extend the Boiler Upgrade Scheme to 2028 and consult on a clean heat market mechanism.
Government published the Carbon Budget Delivery Plan
The government published its Carbon Budget Delivery Plan on 30 March 2023, setting out proposals and policies intended to enable carbon budgets four, five and six to be met.
Government published updated ZEV mandate consultation response
The Department for Transport has published its response to the 2022 technical consultation on the zero emission vehicle mandate, confirming car targets and raising the proposed van trajectory.
Government releases consultation on clean heat market mechanism
The government has opened a consultation on a clean heat market mechanism, alongside a Boiler Upgrade Scheme extension to 2028 and £30 million for heat pump manufacturing.
Great British Insulation Scheme begins
The Great British Insulation Scheme, a supplier obligation formerly known as ECO+, began in April 2023 to upgrade the least energy-efficient homes in Great Britain, with 300,000 homes expected to benefit.
New Approved Documents take effect
The 2022 editions of Approved Documents F Volume 2 and L Volume 2 take effect in Wales on 29 March 2023, replacing earlier guidance for buildings other than dwellings.
Cadent and British Gas offer all Whitby residents a choice to opt in or out of Hydrogen Village trial
Cadent and British Gas have written to all 2,000 residents in the proposed Whitby Hydrogen Village offering each household a choice to opt in to hydrogen heating or stay on natural gas.
New TechnologyWhere Our Energy Comes FromBoilers and Heating
Tax information and impact note published on VAT relief for energy-saving materials in Northern Ireland
HM Revenue and Customs has published a tax information and impact note extending the temporary VAT zero rate for energy-saving materials to Northern Ireland from 1 May 2023.
Delta launches smartphone app for AC MAX EV charger
Delta has released a smartphone app for its AC MAX electric vehicle charger, available now on the Apple App Store and Google Play, adding monitoring and setup controls for users and installers.
SSEN deploys smart meter data to identify network phases remotely
SSEN has developed an algorithm that reads voltage data from smart meters to work out which of three network phases each property is connected to, removing the need for site visits.
Welsh Government statement on energy cost of living crisis
Jane Hutt MS has set out Welsh Government concerns over the energy market, the end of the £400 Energy Bill Support Scheme payment and the treatment of prepayment meter customers in Wales.
Scotland, Wales and Northern IrelandRules and RegulationEnergy Bills and the Price Cap
Powervault launches P4 fourth-generation battery storage system
Powervault has launched the P4, its fourth-generation home and commercial battery storage system, offering five capacities from 8kWh to 24kWh with modular expansion and backup power options.
Andersen EV launches augmented reality tool for A2 home charger
Andersen EV has launched a free augmented reality tool that lets households see its A2 home charger on their own property and try colour and finish options before buying.
SHDF Wave 2.1 and HUG Phase 2 successful projects announced
The government has announced the successful projects for Social Housing Decarbonisation Fund Wave 2.1 and Home Upgrade Grant Phase 2, the two Help to Heat schemes that fund efficiency works in social and off-gas homes.
HUG Phase 2 successful local authorities announced
The government has announced which local authorities secured Home Upgrade Grant Phase 2 funding, with up to £630 million available to upgrade off gas grid homes in England from April 2023.
Oxfordshire awarded £6.417m under HUG2 to retrofit at least 310 off-gas homes
Oxfordshire County Council has been awarded £6.417 million in the second phase of the Home Upgrade Grant to retrofit at least 310 homes that are not heated by mains gas.
WMCA secures £34m to retrofit around 3,000 West Midlands homes
The West Midlands Combined Authority has secured £34 million of government funding, matched by £35 million from housing providers, to retrofit around 3,000 homes rated D or below.
Coalition writes to Housing Minister seeking no new gas grid connections under Future Homes Standard
More than 40 organisations have written to the UK Housing Minister asking for confirmation that the Future Homes Standard will not permit new gas grid connections in newly built homes.
Which? publishes response to BEIS carbon content transparency consultation
Which? has told BEIS that green and renewable tariffs need standardised definitions, mandated sourcing information and a framework that covers electric vehicle charging and green gas.
Industry responds to Spring Budget 2023
Heating industry bodies gave mixed reactions to the Spring Budget, welcoming a three-month extension of the £2,500 energy price cap but criticising the absence of long-term efficiency measures.
Mitsubishi Electric launches new Pre-Plumbed Cylinder range
Mitsubishi Electric has launched a revised range of unvented pre-plumbed hot water cylinders in eight standard and slimline variants, sized from 150L to 300L, to pair with its residential heat pumps.
Power NI announces underlying unit price decrease offset by reduced EPG support
Power NI has cut its underlying residential electricity unit price by 6.61p per unit, but a larger reduction in Energy Price Guarantee support means bills rise 14 per cent from 1 April 2023.
Viessmann launches Vitovolt 300 solar PV system in the UK
Viessmann has brought its Vitovolt 300 solar PV system to the UK, sold as a package with battery storage, heat pumps and EV charging under one control platform.
Chancellor delivers Spring Budget 2023
Jeremy Hunt's Spring Budget extended the Energy Price Guarantee for three months, ended the winter support payment, removed the prepayment meter penalty and reclassified nuclear as sustainable.
Energy Bill Support Scheme ends, leaving households £67 a month worse off
National Energy Action says the Energy Bill Support Scheme has ended, cutting £67 a month from household support, while the Energy Price Guarantee is extended at its current level.
Energy Price Guarantee extended at £2,500 for three months to June 2023
The Chancellor has extended the Energy Price Guarantee at £2,500 for April to June 2023, delaying its planned rise to £3,000 and saving a typical household £160.
EPG extended to end of June 2023 and April to June rates added
The government extended the Energy Price Guarantee to the end of June 2023 and published the regional unit rates that apply to standard variable tariffs from April to June 2023.
Fuel poverty forecast to rise to 7.5 million UK households
National Energy Action forecasts 7.5 million UK households will be in fuel poverty, up from 6.7 million, after the Energy Bill Support Scheme ended and the Energy Price Guarantee was extended.
Government announces prepayment standing charge compensation in the Budget
The UK Government said in its 15 March 2023 Budget that it will compensate prepayment customers for higher standing charges from July 2023 to March 2024, at a cost of £200 million.
Treasury issues call for evidence on zero VAT for battery storage
The Treasury has issued a call for evidence on extending zero VAT to battery storage, whether retrofitted to solar panels or fitted as a standalone unit.
NEA publishes response to Ofgem call for evidence on prepayment rules and protections
National Energy Action has published its response to Ofgem's call for evidence on prepayment rules, naming four areas it says need significant consideration before protections are settled.
Ofgem extends forced prepayment meter installation ban
Ofgem's chief executive announced on 14 March that the ban on forced prepayment meter installations would run beyond the end of March, lifting only if firms follow a new code of practice.
Rules and RegulationEnergy Bills and the Price CapSmart Meters
SSEN restores power to central southern England network after high winds
SSEN restored power to around 8,500 customers across central southern England after high winds, with engineers working into the evening on the remaining handful of properties.
SSEN weather warning for central southern England
SSEN's weather model showed strong winds with coastal gusts of 60mph across central southern England on Monday 13 March, prompting the network operator to increase standby resources and contact priority customers.
Welsh Government published the Keep Warm Keep Well Pembrokeshire press release
The Welsh Government has published details of the Keep Warm Keep Well programme in Pembrokeshire, part of a £1.6 billion cost-of-living support package, after a ministerial visit to a Tenby warm space.
CCC publishes report on delivering a reliable decarbonised power system by 2035
The Climate Change Committee has published modelling on a reliable decarbonised power system for 2035, with 25 recommendations, and says delivery is not happening at the pace required.
CCC warns 2035 decarbonised power system will not happen at current rates of deployment
The Climate Change Committee says a reliable, decarbonised power system by 2035 is possible but will not arrive at current rates of deployment, and sets out 25 recommendations.
Citizens Advice publishes report recommending new energy bill support framework
Citizens Advice has published a report calling for the current system of energy bill support to be replaced by a state-determined social tariff funded by general taxation, with a new framework in place by spring 2024.
Rules and RegulationEnergy Bills and the Price CapEnergy Suppliers
Government launches online portal for alternative fuel payment
The government has opened an online portal for households that heat with oil to claim the £200 alternative fuel payment, with applications accepted until 31 May 2023.
Which? publishes annual energy supplier ratings with Octopus Energy top and average customer scores falling
Which? has published its annual energy supplier survey, with Octopus Energy top on 78 per cent and the average customer score falling to 54 per cent from 59 per cent a year earlier.
Which? responds to delayed Energy Bill Support Scheme payments for some Shell customers
Which? has said some Shell Energy customers will have part of their Energy Bill Support Scheme payments delayed until the Spring, and called on the supplier to act quickly.
Which? responds to government energy efficiency campaign and ECO+ scheme
Which? has welcomed the government's energy efficiency campaign and the ECO+ insulation scheme, while calling for fast delivery, independent advice and robust consumer protections.
Grants and SchemesInsulation and GlazingRules and Regulation
Government announces over £14 million to accelerate low carbon heating rollout
The government has announced more than £14 million for low carbon heating, with £9.7 million for four Heat Pump Ready projects and a £5 million grant to train 10,000 installers.
OVO Energy launches Kaluza-powered Charge Anytime EV charging plan
OVO Energy has launched Charge Anytime, a smart charging add-on giving eligible customers a flat 10p per kWh rate for electric vehicle charging, separate from their household electricity.
Almost 1.2m customers disconnected from energy supply
Ofgem figures show almost 1.2 million customers were disconnected from their energy supply in the first three months of 2023, with average household energy debt above £1,200 on electricity.
StatisticsEnergy Bills and the Price CapRules and Regulation
BISOL Bifacial and BIPV larger modules announced for market availability
BISOL Group has said its first larger-format M10 modules, the BISOL Bifacial and BIPV ranges, will reach the market in March, following the February release of its Duplex M10.
Boiler Upgrade Scheme extended until 2028
The Boiler Upgrade Scheme has been extended by three years to 2028, with extra funding for each year after 2025, but no budget level has yet been set for the extended scheme.
Chancellor announces Energy Price Guarantee
The Chancellor announced the Energy Price Guarantee in March 2023 to address higher prepayment costs, a scheme later replaced by prepayment levelisation from April 2024.
Chancellor introduces Energy Price Guarantee
The Retail Energy Code Company has updated the methodology behind the payment method levelisation scheme that replaced the Energy Price Guarantee's prepayment unit rate discount from April 2024.
CIPHE responds to spring statement on energy bill support
The Chartered Institute of Plumbing and Heating Engineering has welcomed the three month extension of the energy price guarantee and the removal of the prepayment meter penalty, but says more is needed on fuel poverty.
Consultation on resolving the retrofitted BESS VAT anomaly opened in the spring
A call for evidence on VAT relief for energy saving materials opened in spring 2023, examining an anomaly that left retrofitted domestic battery storage facing 20% VAT.
Consultation on Zero Emission Vehicle Mandate published
The government consultation on a Zero Emission Vehicle Mandate was published in the week before 5 April 2023, with the mandate due to come into force in less than nine months.
Deeper Devolution Deal gives WMCA control of retrofit funding pot
The West Midlands Combined Authority has secured £34 million of government funding, matched by £35 million from housing providers, to retrofit around 3,000 homes rated D or below.
Defra Burn Better campaign supported by HETAS with sponsored video adverts
HETAS has sponsored video adverts on Facebook and Instagram in partnership with Defra to extend the reach of the government's Burn Better campaign, aimed at households that burn solid fuel at home.
EDF raised SEG Export Variable rate from 1.5p to 3p per kWh
EDF raised the rate on its no-strings SEG Export Variable tariff from 1.5p to 3p per kWh in March 2023, a rate that has since stayed unchanged while average export prices moved higher.
Energy Bill Support Scheme ends
The Energy Bill Support Scheme, which gave every household in Great Britain a £400 discount on energy bills over winter 2022 to 2023, ended in March 2023 with no replacement announced.
Grants and SchemesEnergy Bills and the Price CapRules and Regulation
Energy companies agree to stop force-fitting prepayment meters in vulnerable customers' homes
All UK energy suppliers have told the government they will stop force-fitting prepayment meters in vulnerable customers' homes, while magistrates have temporarily halted warrant approvals.
Rules and RegulationEnergy Bills and the Price CapSmart Meters
Energy Price Guarantee to remain at £2,500 until July
The Spring Budget kept the Energy Price Guarantee at £2,500 for a typical household until July 2023 instead of raising it to £3,000, but the £400 Energy Bill Support Scheme ended in April.
First Minister backed £10 million uplift to the Fuel Insecurity Fund
The First Minister marked his first month in office with a £10 million uplift to the Fuel Insecurity Fund, a commitment the Scottish Fuel Poverty Advisory Panel later cited when it criticised plans to close the fund.
Grants and SchemesScotland, Wales and Northern IrelandYour Type of Home
UK government announces plan to equalise prepayment and Direct Debit tariff costs
The UK government said in March 2023 that it would work to equalise the cost of prepayment and Direct Debit tariffs, addressing a gap in what households pay for the same energy.
Government consultation published on boiler standards, hydrogen-ready boilers and hybrids
A government consultation on minimum boiler standards, a 2026 mandate for hydrogen-ready gas boilers and the role of boiler-heat pump hybrids has been published, with responses due by 21 March 2023.
Government publishes details of HUG and SHDF spending
The government has published how £630m of Home Upgrade Grant money and £780m of Social Housing Decarbonisation Fund money will be spent, with funding available from April for insulation, glazing and heat pumps.
Government publishes response to ECO+ policy consultation
The government published its response to the ECO+ consultation in March 2023, setting out policy proposals for a scheme later renamed the Great British Insulation Scheme.
Government publishes summary of first REMA consultation responses
The government's March 2023 summary of responses to its first review of electricity market arrangements consultation ruled out several options, including pay-as-bid pricing.
Government response to ECO+ consultation published, renaming the scheme the Great British Insulation Scheme
The government has published its response to the ECO+ consultation, confirming the scheme will be renamed the Great British Insulation Scheme and run from 2023 to 2026 in England, Scotland and Wales.
Grants and SchemesInsulation and GlazingRules and Regulation
Great British Insulation Scheme announced
The Great British Insulation Scheme, announced in March 2023 to fund insulation in less efficient homes within set council tax bands, later closed to new applicants and completed its final installations.
Great British Insulation Scheme installs just over 1,000 measures in seven months
Analysis by the End Fuel Poverty Coalition finds the Great British Insulation Scheme installed just over 1,000 energy efficiency measures between March and October 2023, as 39% of UK households say they cannot afford to insulate.
Great British Nuclear launched
The government has launched Great British Nuclear to support new nuclear builds, announced in the Spring Budget 2023 alongside a three-month extension of the Energy Price Guarantee at £2,500.
Judicial review judgment on Bulb sale published
The High Court judgment on the Bulb Energy special administration sale process was published at the end of March 2023, with the transaction completed on 20 December 2022.
MCS and HIES withdraw Green Energy Together accreditations, installer enters administration
MCS and HIES withdrew Green Energy Together's accreditations in March 2023, and the installer then entered administration, leaving some households without deposits or with unfinished work.
Ministers approve hydrogen blending in UK gas network
Ministers have approved blending hydrogen into the UK gas network, with commercial implementation expected by 2025-26 subject to safety assessments and legislative change.
Rules and RegulationWhere Our Energy Comes FromNew Technology
Octopus Flux tariff launched
Octopus Flux, a variable import and export tariff for homes with solar panels and a battery, has been available since March 2023 and changes every three months with Ofgem's price cap.
Only three suppliers exited the market in SY13
Ofgem's annual Feed-in Tariffs report shows supplier exits fell from 27 in Scheme Year 12 to three in Scheme Year 13, as market stability returned and scheme costs rose to £1.73 billion.
Ovo and SSE launch fixed tariffs estimated to yield suppliers around £484 and £469 profit per customer
Analysis by Future Energy Associates estimates that two new one year fixed tariffs from Ovo and SSE will earn suppliers £484 and £469 profit per customer while costing households more than the price cap.
Powering Up Britain energy security plan published
The Government published Powering Up Britain in March 2023, its second energy security plan in two years, setting out measures intended to reduce reliance on imported gas and oil.
Smart Pay Energy withdrew from the SEG during Year 3
Ofgem's SEG annual report records that Smart Pay Energy left the scheme part way through Year 3 against policy, and will be added to the Supplier Performance Report.
Spring Budget announces alignment of direct debit and pre-payment meter charges
The Spring Budget confirmed that charges for comparable direct debit and pre-payment meter customers would be aligned, ending the premium pre-payment customers pay for their energy.
SSEN plans multi-million pound Bordon infrastructure upgrade for spring 2023
Scottish and Southern Electricity Networks is co-ordinating a multi-million pound electricity infrastructure upgrade in Bordon, Hampshire, with preparatory works completed in late 2022 and main works due to start in spring 2023.
Telford home upgraded with MCS certified solar panels and battery storage
MCS has published a case study of a Telford home fitted with MCS certified solar panels and battery storage in March 2023, reporting that the system has supplied around two-thirds of the household's electricity.
Tesco raises EV charging prices
Tesco raised the cost of charging an electric car at its stores in March 2023, with the 7kW rate rising from 28p to 44p per kWh, ending the free charging it once offered.
The Times reveals forced prepayment installations by British Gas subcontractor
The Times reported that a British Gas subcontractor used brutal methods to force-fit prepayment meters in vulnerable customers' homes, prompting suppliers to halt the practice.
New Warmer Homes Scotland scheme launches
A new version of Warmer Homes Scotland, built on a whole house retrofit approach, replaced the previous scheme in early 2023, targeting lower-income and vulnerable households in fuel poverty.
Grants and SchemesYour Type of HomeScotland, Wales and Northern Ireland
Wave 2.1 government funding allocated
The Social Housing Decarbonisation Fund's Wave 2.1 was allocated £778 million of government funding in March 2023, covering proposed energy performance improvements to around 90,000 social homes in England.
Welsh Government plans to start next Part L review in 2023
The Welsh Government has said it will begin the next review of Part L of the Building Regulations in 2023, with a minimum expectation of a 75% carbon improvement option for 2025.
- February 2023
Government releases Fuel Poverty Statistics for England showing 3.26 million households in fuel poverty
Official figures show 3.26 million English households in fuel poverty, with National Energy Action estimating the 2030 efficiency target is now 300 years away on current progress.
Welsh Government Fuel Support Scheme application window closes
The Welsh Government Fuel Support Scheme stopped taking applications on 28 February 2023, closing a £200 payment that was open to households regardless of how they paid for energy.
Grants and SchemesEnergy Bills and the Price CapScotland, Wales and Northern Ireland
E3G publishes recommendations ahead of the UK Spring Budget 2023
E3G has published budget recommendations calling for a ten-year funding pledge and fairer distribution of public money for energy efficiency and heat pumps across the UK.
Government announces online portal for Alternative Fuel Payment claims
Heating oil customers who missed the £200 Alternative Fuel Payment through their electricity account will be able to claim it through a government online portal running by 6 March 2023.
Grants and SchemesEnergy Bills and the Price CapBoilers and Heating
Ofgem to announce April to June price cap level
Ofgem will set the April to June price cap on February 27th, with suppliers writing to households within days, as Energy UK urges the government to hold the Energy Price Guarantee at £2,500.
Ofgem sets price cap at £3,280 for April to June 2023
Ofgem has set the energy price cap for 1 April to 30 June 2023 at £3,280 for a typical dual fuel direct debit household, down from £4,279, but the Energy Price Guarantee rises to £3,000.
Online portal opens for £600 EBSS alternative funding applications in Northern Ireland
The UK government has opened an online portal and telephone helpline so more than 28,000 Northern Ireland households without a direct electricity supplier can apply for £600 energy bill support.
Grants and SchemesEnergy Bills and the Price CapYour Type of Home
Rooftop solar installations double in a year to post-subsidy record
Solar Energy UK reports 130,596 MCS-registered rooftop solar installations in 2022, more than double the 2021 figure, with a post-subsidy monthly record of 16,043 registrations in January 2023.
Study finds green hydrogen heating two to three times more expensive than heat pumps in Europe
An ETH Zürich study published in Energy Conversion and Management finds that heating homes with green hydrogen would cost roughly two to three times more than using electric heat pumps across the EU and UK.
House of Lords committee letter describes Boiler Upgrade Scheme as 'seriously failing'
The House of Lords Environment and Climate Change Committee has told the government its Boiler Upgrade Scheme is seriously failing, citing cost, installer shortages and poor advice.
WMCA urges West Midlands residents to claim unclaimed energy bill vouchers
The West Midlands Combined Authority says more than 150,000 Energy Bills Support Scheme vouchers in the region are unclaimed, and the mayor has urged households to redeem them by 31 March 2023.
Call for evidence on prepayment rules launched
Ofgem opened a call for evidence on prepayment meter rules on 21 February 2023, the first step in a process that ended with new licence conditions taking effect on 8 November 2023.
Citizens Advice responds to Ofgem's outline of next steps on forced prepayment meter installations
Citizens Advice has welcomed Ofgem repeating its call for suppliers to check whether customers should be moved off prepayment meters, warning that the regulator and government must act if progress stalls.
Ofgem outlines next steps on forced prepayment meter installations
Ofgem has set out the terms of its British Gas investigation and the scope of a market-wide prepayment meter review, and asked suppliers to reverse incorrect installations during the current pause.
SSEN restores supplies to over 41,000 properties after Storm Otto with around 2,500 still off supply
SSEN restored power to more than 41,000 properties by 10am on 18 February after Storm Otto, with around 2,500 still off supply and 750 staff deployed across Aberdeenshire.
Jackery launches Solar Generator 1500 Pro in the UK
Jackery has put its Solar Generator 1500 Pro on sale in the UK, pairing a 1,512 Wh Explorer 1500 Pro power station with a 200W SolarSaga panel at £1,499 or £2,099 as a bundle.
ScottishPower launched SMART GEN and SMART GEN + tariffs
ScottishPower launched SMART GEN and SMART GEN + export tariffs on 16 February 2023, with Ofgem later recording SMART GEN as the highest unbundled Smart Export Guarantee rate of SEG Year 3.
Which? survey finds 23% of smart meter owners had problems in the last year
A Which? survey of 9,417 smart meter owners found 23% had at least one problem in the past year, with suppliers failing to receive readings the most common complaint.
Which? reports 1.42 million energy support vouchers unclaimed
Government data published on 14 February 2023 shows 1.42 million Energy Bills Support Scheme vouchers issued to prepayment meter customers in October and November 2022 were never redeemed.
Citizens Advice responds to DESNZ announcement on forced prepayment meter installations
Citizens Advice has welcomed a government announcement on forced prepayment meter installations but says suppliers must review whether prepayment is safe and that protection should cover remote switching of smart meters.
Rules and RegulationSmart MetersEnergy Bills and the Price Cap
Energy Security Secretary claims all suppliers committed to ending forced prepayment meter installations
Grant Shapps has claimed all energy suppliers have committed to ending forced prepayment meter installations in vulnerable customers' homes, a move the fuel poverty charity National Energy Action calls right but insufficient.
Rules and RegulationEnergy Bills and the Price CapSmart Meters
NRLA backs Money Saving Boiler Challenge as 2.5m renters may be missing out on energy savings
The National Residential Landlords Association has partnered with Nesta's Money Saving Boiler Challenge, as research suggests more than 2.5 million private rented households may be missing out on savings of around £112 a year.
Mitsubishi Electric launches expanded commercial and residential heat pump range
Mitsubishi Electric has added two commercial heat pumps to its renewable heating range and says it now offers the widest line-up of commercial and residential heat pumps on the UK market.
SSEN moves to Weather Warning status in the north of Scotland
SSEN Distribution has moved to Weather Warning status in northern Scotland ahead of severe gales forecast from Wednesday afternoon, with extra resources sent to key locations.
SSEN reports 16,000 properties off supply due to Storm Otto
SSEN restored power to more than 27,000 properties after Storm Otto but around 16,000 remained off supply at 4.30pm, with some rural customers facing more than 48 hours without electricity.
Storm Otto impacts SSEN high voltage network in north of Scotland
Storm Otto brought 85mph gusts to northern Scotland from around 4am on 7 February 2023, cutting power to 30,000 properties on SSEN's high voltage network and leaving some rural homes off supply for more than 48 hours.
Which? makes supplier practices assessment public and counts it in overall scores
Which? has published its behind-the-scenes assessment of energy supplier practices for the first time and folded the results into each company's overall score for 2023.
£200 Alternative Fuel Payments to off-gas-grid households begin
Households across Great Britain that do not use mains gas for heating began receiving £200 Alternative Fuel Payments automatically as credits on their electricity bills from 6 February 2023.
Cadent publishes cost comparison of heat pump and hydrogen heating
Cadent has published a cost comparison arguing that decarbonising home heating is not a straight choice between heat pumps and hydrogen, and that hydrogen could be cheaper for some homes.
Sir Robert Neill MP calls for inquiry into pre-payment meter scandal in House of Commons
Sir Robert Neill MP has told the House of Commons that the pre-payment meter scandal shows a flawed court process and requires an inquiry into those representing suppliers and Ofgem.
ECO4 Delivery Guidance version 1.1 published
Ofgem published version 1.1 of its ECO4 Delivery Guidance on 3 February 2023, adding and amending rules on eligibility, ECO4 Flex, projects, measures, scoring and administration.
Fuel poverty charity calls for ban on forced prepayment meter installations
National Energy Action has called for a temporary ban on forced prepayment meter installations after reports that suppliers used warrants to enter customers' homes and fit the devices.
Approved Document L Volume 2 (2021 edition incorporating 2023 amendments) becomes valid
The 2021 edition of Approved Document L Volume 2, incorporating 2023 amendments, became valid on 2 February 2023, setting the compliance guidance for energy efficiency in buildings other than dwellings in England.
E.On rated severe weaknesses and issued Provisional Order
Ofgem has rated E.On as having severe weaknesses in customer service and issued a Provisional Order requiring it to cut call wait times and abandoned call rates and report weekly.
Ofgem announces industry-wide investigation into prepayment meter installations
Ofgem has opened an industry-wide investigation into the rapid growth in prepayment meter installations and warned suppliers that forced installations are unacceptable, following reports of debt agents entering homes.
Ofgem completes Market Compliance Review of suppliers' customer service and complaints handling
Ofgem has rated seventeen energy suppliers on customer service and complaints handling, placing none in its top category and issuing a Provisional Order to E.On over severe weaknesses.
BISOL Duplex M10 and BISOL Laminate M10 announced for availability
BISOL has said the first batch of its M10 Duplex modules in full-black 400 to 420 Wp format, with a frameless Laminate version, will be available in February 2023.
New boiler efficiency standards took effect in Scotland
Boiler efficiency standards in Scotland rose from February 2023, requiring 92% efficiency for condensing standard or combination gas boilers and lower minimums for oil models.
British Gas launches heat pump installation price offer
British Gas has said it will cap the starting price of heat pump installation at £2,999, a figure that excludes the heat pump itself and will not apply to every home.
Campaign launched to keep Energy Price Guarantee at £2,500
Charities, energy trade body Energy UK and more than 70 organisations have backed Martin Lewis's call to postpone the rise in the Energy Price Guarantee from £2,500 to £3,000 on 1 April 2023.
CCC publishes research on domestic EPC metric reform
The Climate Change Committee published research and recommendations on reforming domestic Energy Performance Certificates across Scotland and the rest of the UK in February 2023.
Insulation and GlazingRules and RegulationScotland, Wales and Northern Ireland
CCC warns lack of leadership is preventing essential UK climate adaptation investment
The Climate Change Committee says a lack of government leadership is holding back essential investment to prepare the UK for climate change, with around £10bn a year potentially needed.
Climate Change Committee calls for reform of domestic EPCs
The Climate Change Committee said in February 2023 that Energy Performance Certificates are poorly suited to setting standards and targets for cutting emissions from homes, and proposed four replacement metrics.
Energy firms agree voluntary pause on forced PPM installations
Energy suppliers agreed a voluntary pause on forced prepayment meter installations in early 2023, after reporting on British Gas, but campaigners said the commitment did not go far enough.
European Commission announces plan for a heat pump action plan
The European Commission is planning a heat pump action plan to boost deployment, to be elaborated with member states and business actors as part of its Green Deal Industrial Plan.
European Commission presents Green Deal Industrial Plan
The European Commission has set out a Green Deal Industrial Plan that will include a heat pump action plan and a proposed Net-Zero Industry Act covering wind, solar, heat pumps, batteries and electrolysers.
First Winter Heating Payments due to be made
The Scottish Government has confirmed that the first payments of its new £50 Winter Heating Payment, which replaces the UK Cold Weather Payment in Scotland, will be made in February 2023.
Forced prepayment meter installations suspended
Forced prepayment meter installations have been suspended after an investigation into British Gas practices, with Consumer Scotland welcoming the pause as breathing space for new protections.
Energy Bills and the Price CapSmart MetersRules and Regulation
Four new government departments were created
The government created four new departments in February 2023, including the Department for Energy Security and Net Zero, with indicative budgets pending confirmation at Main Estimates 2023-24.
Fuse upgrade trial with Octopus Energy ends and extends to EV chargers
Octopus Energy and UK Power Networks have ended a year-long trial that let supplier engineers carry out fuse upgrades, and are extending the approach to electric vehicle chargers.
Government launches energy efficiency taskforce
The government has set up an energy efficiency taskforce, co-chaired by Alison Rose and Lord Callanan, to plan a 15% cut in building energy consumption by 2030 against 2021 levels.
Hampshire network upgrade project due for completion
Scottish and Southern Electricity Networks has completed a £3.9 million upgrade of electricity infrastructure around Netley Common in Southampton, a fourteen-month project serving around 75,000 homes and businesses.
Improved energy standards for new homes introduced
The most recent improvement to energy standards for new homes was introduced in February 2023, the Scottish Government has confirmed in a progress report on its fuel poverty strategy.
Lords committee finds low grant funding holds back Boiler Upgrade Scheme uptake
A Lords committee inquiry into the Boiler Upgrade Scheme found low grant funding was one of the main factors holding back heat pump uptake and recommended raising the grant level.
MCS opens consultation on re-written MCS 007 heat pump product standard
MCS has opened a consultation on a substantially re-written MCS 007 heat pump product standard, covering higher minimum performance benchmarks, new data publication duties and wider heat pump types in scope.
Ofgem agrees moratorium on involuntary PPM installations
Ofgem agreed a moratorium with suppliers in February 2023 pausing involuntary prepayment meter installations and remote smart meter mode switches, after evidence that existing rules may not have been followed.
Ofgem begins review of PPM licence conditions
Ofgem opened a review of prepayment meter licence conditions in February 2023 after investigating reports about supplier practice, a step that preceded a market-wide pause on involuntary installations.
Ofgem issues Provisional Order banning British Gas from forced PPM installations
Ofgem has issued a Provisional Order temporarily banning British Gas from forced prepayment meter installations and remote mode switches, and opened an urgent investigation into the supplier.
Ofgem opens Call for Input on proposed TDCV updates
Ofgem has opened a Call for Input on proposed updates to the gas and electricity Typical Domestic Consumption Values and the Economy 7 peak and off-peak split, with comments due by 27 March 2023.
Ofgem opens Call for Input on review of additional wholesale allowances in the price cap
Ofgem has opened a Call for Input on whether to review the shaping, imbalance and transaction cost allowances inside the energy price cap, with responses due by 1 March 2023.
Ofgem publishes ECO3 Final Determination Report
Ofgem's final report on the Energy Company Obligation 3 confirms suppliers exceeded the scheme's £8.25bn bill-saving target, while Co-operative Energy met only 36.4% of its own obligation.
Ofgem publishes ECO4 Innovation approved measures list V1.0
Ofgem has published version 1.0 of its list of approved innovation measures for ECO4, setting out the products, approval dates and uplift percentages suppliers can use under the scheme.
Suppliers agree to stop force-fitting prepayment meters without consent
Energy suppliers agreed in February 2023 to stop force-fitting prepayment meters and switching smart meters to prepayment mode without consent, a voluntary pause that later gave way to licence conditions.
Rules and RegulationSmart MetersEnergy Bills and the Price Cap
Times investigation exposes forced prepayment meter practices of major suppliers including British Gas
An undercover Times investigation published on 1 February 2023 exposed forced prepayment meter practices at major suppliers including British Gas, triggering a voluntary industry pause and an ongoing Ofgem investigation.
Viessmann extends standard Vitodens boiler warranty to seven years
Viessmann UK has raised the standard warranty on its entire Vitodens residential boiler range to seven years, with longer cover of 10 or 12 years available to buy.
Winter Heating Payment launched in Scotland
Scotland's Winter Heating Payment replaced the Cold Weather Payment in February 2023, giving low-income households a guaranteed annual payment instead of one triggered by sustained cold weather.
- January 2023
Compensation window closes for forced prepayment meter installations
The window for compensation over forced prepayment meter installations closed on 31 January 2023, covering moves made between 1 January 2022 and that date.
Energy Bills and the Price CapSmart MetersRules and Regulation
Ofgem prepayment meter compliance review concluded
Ofgem has concluded its prepayment meter compliance review, with compensation due to customers of eight suppliers who had meters wrongly installed between 1 January 2022 and 31 January 2023.
SolarEdge Home Load Controller available now
SolarEdge has announced that its Home Load Controller is available now, a device that switches household appliances to match solar generation, battery storage and time of use tariffs.
Boiler Upgrade Scheme open to England and Wales applicants
Householders in England and Wales can apply for the Boiler Upgrade Scheme, a non-means-tested grant of £5,000 towards an air source heat pump or £6,000 towards a ground source heat pump.
BESA calls on government to speed up energy efficiency spending
The Building Engineering Services Association has urged ministers to bring forward £6bn of energy efficiency funding promised for 2025, citing an IPPR report on the cost crisis.
SSEN commits additional £3.5 million for Storm Arwen affected communities
SSEN Distribution has committed an additional £3.5 million for communities worst hit by Storm Arwen, covering local authority funding, its Resilient Communities Fund and network investment in north east Scotland.
Scotland, Wales and Northern IrelandWhere Our Energy Comes FromBackup Power
First live DFS event held
The first live Demand Flexibility Service event on 23 January 2023 paid 400,000 households and businesses £3.37 per kilowatt hour for electricity demand they reduced.
Government demands energy firms stop forcing customers onto prepayment meters
Grant Shapps has written to energy suppliers demanding they stop moving customers onto prepayment meters against their will, as Ofgem reviews whether firms took enough care.
Energy Bills and the Price CapSmart MetersRules and Regulation
Ofgem to review supplier decisions to move customers to prepayment
Ofgem will review whether energy suppliers took enough care before moving customers onto prepayment meters, as the government demands firms stop forced switches.
Compensation window opens for forced prepayment installations
Ofgem has set out when households forced onto a prepayment meter between 1 January 2022 and 21 January 2023 can claim compensation, where their supplier did not follow the rules properly.
Energy Bills and the Price CapRules and RegulationSmart Meters
Government and Ofgem publish electric vehicle smart charging action plan
The government and Ofgem have published an action plan setting out how they will deliver energy flexibility from electric vehicle charging, alongside funding for vehicle-to-everything projects.
Government response to Environmental Information Regulations request published
Government figures released under an Environmental Information Regulations request show announced policies will lift only around 140,000 E-G homes to Band D by 2025, leaving 515,000 fuel poor households below the milestone.
Prime Minister says consulting on options including a social tariff
The Prime Minister told the House of Commons on 18 January 2023 that the Government was consulting on options for energy bills, including a social tariff, as part of wider reforms of the retail energy market.
95 organisations call on Chancellor to introduce an energy social tariff
Ninety-five charities and non-profit organisations have written to the Chancellor calling for a social tariff, as a new Fuel Poverty Monitor warns of rising fuel poverty from April 2023.
Rules and RegulationEnergy Bills and the Price CapGrants and Schemes
Fuel Poverty Monitor 2021-22 published by NEA and Energy Action Scotland
National Energy Action and Energy Action Scotland have published the UK Fuel Poverty Monitor 2021-22, recommending a mandatory social tariff from April 2024, backed by 95 charities and non-profit organisations.
E3G publishes briefing urging tighter energy efficiency rules for UK landlords
E3G has published a briefing arguing that raising minimum energy efficiency standards for rented homes in the UK would save tenants £570 a year and the economy £1.75bn a year.
Mission Zero independent review of Net Zero published
The Independent Review of Net Zero, led by Chris Skidmore MP, was published as Mission Zero, with industry bodies highlighting consumer protection and installer standards in home energy efficiency work.
Retrofit Installers Working Group launched with TrustMark and other Certification Bodies
NAPIT has launched a Retrofit Installers Working Group with TrustMark and other certification bodies, focused on quality assurance checks and protecting consumers from noncompliant retrofit work.
SSEN energises Bournemouth network upgrade
SSEN has energised a 2.2 kilometre replacement cable between East Howe and Victoria Park substations in Bournemouth, completing a £2.7 million upgrade that began in March of last year.
Energy Systems Catapult launches consumer heat pump guide
Energy Systems Catapult has published a consumer guide to heat pump conversations, aimed at helping homeowners make informed decisions across the four stages of an installation.
Government opens consultation on improving boiler standards and efficiency
The government has opened a consultation on improving boiler standards and efficiency, covering minimum standards, a hydrogen-ready mandate for new gas boilers from 2026 and boiler-heat pump hybrids.
YouGov survey shows strong public support for renewables in new-build homes
A YouGov survey of 1,722 UK adults found 80% support for solar panels as standard on new-build homes, 66% for battery storage and 60% for heat pumps, ahead of a Government consultation on the Future Homes Standard.
Draft Energy Strategy and Just Transition Plan published
The Scottish Government published its draft Energy Strategy and Just Transition Plan on 10 January 2023, opening a consultation on a route map to a net zero energy system.
Plan to implement Passivhaus standard in Scotland announced
The Scottish Government announced plans on 10 January 2023 to introduce minimum environmental design standards for all newbuild housing, meeting a Scottish equivalent to the Passivhaus standard.
Rules and RegulationInsulation and GlazingScotland, Wales and Northern Ireland
Citizens Advice responds to the BEIS ECO+ consultation
Citizens Advice has told the government its ECO+ energy efficiency scheme, with a £1bn budget over three years and a 410,000 household target, could be far more ambitious.
Insulating foam ban date changed
Government guidance on fluorinated gases was updated on 4 January 2023 to record that a ban on F gases in insulating foam is already in force, rather than starting in 2023.
Government publishes new details on cost of living payments
The UK Government has published new details of cost of living payments running from spring 2023 to spring 2024, as National Energy Action warns the support will not stop millions being pushed into fuel poverty.
2023 Flexi variable cost values take effect for 1 January 2023
ScottishPower has published the first of three quarterly sets of variable cost values for its 2023 Flexi product, covering the period from 1 January 2023.
BEIS starts making EBSS payments in Northern Ireland
The Department for Business, Energy and Industrial Strategy began paying Energy Bills Support Scheme grants in Northern Ireland in January 2023, three months after payments started in Great Britain.
Grants and SchemesEnergy Bills and the Price CapWind, Hydro and Micro-CHP
Bulb special administration adviser costs reach £49.9 million
Special administration costs for Bulb, including its administrators, their legal advisers and Lazard, reached £49.9 million by the end of January 2023 and are expected to reach around £60 million.
Cashback scheme to be replaced by grant scheme in 2022/23
The Scottish Government has confirmed that the Home Energy Scotland loan and cashback arrangements will be replaced in 2022/23 by a grant scheme for energy efficiency and zero emissions heat improvements.
Grants and SchemesScotland, Wales and Northern IrelandWhere to Start
Charities call for social energy tariff as research shows a quarter of over-60s in cold homes
Age UK polling shows a quarter of over-60s live in homes colder than they would like, as 100 charities and non-profits write to the Chancellor calling for a social energy tariff.
Citizens Advice publishes 'Kept in the dark' report on prepayment meters
Citizens Advice has republished findings from its January 2023 "Kept in the dark" report, which found more than 2 million people were disconnected from their energy supply at least once a month.
Cost-Plus Revenue Limit to come into force
The government's temporary Cost-Plus Revenue Limit on low-carbon generators in England and Wales is planned to come into force from the start of 2023, under powers in the Energy Prices Bill.
Detailed design and construction phase begins for 12 SSEN projects
SSEN Distribution has appointed Freedom Group as design and build contractor for 12 network projects worth £41 million, with construction due to start in January 2023 and completion targeted for July 2024.
Draft Energy Strategy and Just Transition Plan published for consultation
The Scottish Government published its draft Energy Strategy and Just Transition Plan for consultation in January 2023, setting out ambitions to transform how Scotland heats its homes and buildings.
E.ON Next and Shell Energy join the Vulnerability Commitment
E.ON Next and Shell Energy joined the Energy UK Vulnerability Commitment at the start of 2023, taking it to 13 signatories covering more than 90% of the UK domestic retail market.
E3G publishes briefing urging revival of MEES proposals for private renters
E3G has published a briefing arguing that the Energy Bill's return in 2023 offers a chance to revive revised Minimum Energy Efficiency Standards for private rented homes, consulted on in 2020 but never put to Parliament.
Economy 7 electricity tariffs rise by an average of 7.6%
Electricity-only Economy 7 customers saw average annual bills rise by £116 from 1 January 2023, a 7.6% increase driven largely by EDF and Scottish Power raising Economy 7 rates.
EHPA reports need for 500,000 skilled heat pump installers by 2030
The European Heat Pump Association has calculated that the sector needs at least 500,000 skilled full time equivalent workers by 2030 to meet REPowerEU ambitions, after record 2022 sales.
Energy price cap forecast to reach £4,266 a year from January 2023
Forecasts put the energy price cap at £4,266 a year for a typical household from January 2023, up from the £2,800 expected earlier in 2022, with low-income homes facing the sharpest squeeze.
Environment Improvement Plan 2023 introduced
The government published the Environment Improvement Plan in January 2023, the first review of the 25 Year Environment Plan, setting out measures on domestic burning including tighter emission limits for new stoves.
Environment Improvement Plan published confirming no ban on domestic burning in England
The Environment Improvement Plan states that the government is not considering a ban on domestic burning in England, and recognises that some households depend on solid fuel for heating, hot water and cooking.
EPC fuel prices updated with increases to all fuels
The January 2023 six monthly update to the fuel prices behind Energy Performance Certificates raised every fuel, but the new figures remain far below what households actually pay.
ESF investigation finds over 50 unsafe listings across five online marketplaces
Electrical Safety First found more than 50 unsafe electrical listings across five online marketplaces, with a further 58 products investigated in January 2023 all deemed unsuitable for sale.
Future Homes Standard draft publication expected in 2023
The government has accelerated work on the Future Homes Standard, with draft publication now expected in 2023 as part of a two-stage tightening of building rules.
Gas costs push consumer electricity prices to four times 2021 levels
Ember analysis finds UK consumers paid four times more for electricity in January 2023 than two years earlier under Ofgem's price cap, as soaring gas costs drove the crisis peak.
Energy Bills and the Price CapStatisticsWhere Our Energy Comes From
Government announces cut in fuel poverty support for next winter
The Government has announced reduced financial support for households in fuel poverty in 2023/24, with energy bills set to rise from 1 April 2023 as the Energy Bills Support Scheme ends.
New heat networks consented from 2023 to use low or zero emissions heat sources
Heat networks consented in Scotland from 2023 will have to draw their heat from low or zero emissions sources, under proposals set out in a Scottish Government consultation.
Hypothermia cases in England surge during energy bills crisis
Hypothermia cases in England rose 82 per cent in December 2022 against the same month a year earlier, figures reported during the energy bills crisis show.
UK imports no fossil fuels from Russia
The UK imported no coal, oil or gas from Russia in January 2023, as fossil fuel imports from Russia continued to fall after the full-scale invasion of Ukraine.
Leicester Energy Action project begins supporting vulnerable households
National Energy Action's Leicester Energy Action project has been supporting vulnerable people across the city since January 2023, funded by NHS Integrated Care and run with Leicester City Council's public health team.
Octopus Electroverse launches on Apple CarPlay and Android Auto
Octopus Electroverse has put its charging app on Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, adding charger search, filtering, charger details and inbuilt navigation to compatible electric vehicle screens.
Ofgem announces market compliance review into PPM practices
Ofgem opened a Market Compliance Review into involuntary prepayment meter practices in January 2023, alongside an urgent investigation into British Gas and a market-wide pause on forced installations.
Ofgem introduced stringent new rules for prepayment meter installations
Ofgem brought in stringent new rules for prepayment meter installation in 2023, after suppliers failed to follow the rules on forced installation, a later government review confirms.
Ofgem opens investigation into British Gas over PPM practices
Ofgem has opened an investigation into British Gas and a Market Compliance Review into prepayment meter practices, alongside a consultation on strengthening protections for involuntary prepayment meter installations.
Ohme launches ePod untethered smart charger
Ohme has added the ePod, an untethered smart charger carrying the same technology as its Home Pro, to its range, giving drivers a cable-free option for the first time.
UK Power Networks next regulatory price control period begins
UK Power Networks has begun its next regulatory price control period, running from 2023 to 2028, after its Green Recovery programme drew 360 bids and led to 86 approved projects.
Quarterly price cap increase planned for January 2023
The End Fuel Poverty Coalition has written to Ofgem urging it to drop a planned quarterly price cap increase in January 2023 and to make five urgent reforms to the energy market.
RECCo publishes report estimating energy theft costs consumers up to £1.4bn yearly
The Retail Energy Code Company has published a report with Capgemini estimating that energy theft costs consumers up to £1.4 billion a year and adds up to £50 to every bill.
Redrow announces all upcoming developments will feature air source heat pumps
Redrow announced in January 2023 that all its upcoming developments would feature air source heat pumps, two years ahead of the Future Homes Standard deadline.
Responsive Retrofit pilot launched
The Responsive Retrofit pilot, run by Clarion Futures and launched in 2023, combined money guidance, energy advice and small efficiency measures for tenants, with an evaluation published in 2025.
Review of energy standards commences to investigate a Scottish equivalent to the Passivhaus standard
The Scottish Government began a review of building energy standards at the start of 2023 to investigate what a Scottish equivalent to the Passivhaus standard might be.
Scottish government launches EPC reform consultation
The Scottish government has consulted on the design and content of Energy Performance Certificates, with findings from that consultation expected towards the end of 2024.
Severe-weather compensation scheme in place in Great Britain
Electricity network companies in England, Scotland and Wales have operated a severe-weather compensation scheme since 2023, funded by electricity customers, as confirmed by NIE Networks.
So Energy and Hometree partnership begins with Home Cover launch
So Energy and Hometree Finance launched a solar payment plan letting homeowners in England and Wales spread installation costs from £75 a month over five to twenty-five years.
Welsh Government published consultation reviewing renewable energy targets
The Welsh Government has confirmed it consulted in January 2023 on renewable energy targets including 100% of annual electricity consumption from renewables by 2035 and 5.5GW of heat pump capacity.
Rules and RegulationWhere Our Energy Comes FromScotland, Wales and Northern Ireland
Wind generation overtook gas in early 2023
Zapmap reports that in early 2023 wind farms supplied more UK electricity than gas, a figure it cites in a guide rebutting common claims about electric vehicles.