Rules and Regulation news from 2024
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- December 2024
MCS publishes updated MCS 031 heat pump standard and Excel tool
MCS has published Issue 4.0 of its heat pump pre-sale performance standard, replacing the SCoP-based estimate with a method using system type, specific heat loss and a Heat Emitter Guide lookup table.
Consultation on raising product standards for space heating opens
DESNZ opened a consultation on 17 December 2024 on updating ecodesign and energy labelling rules for space and combination heaters, including higher minimum standards for heat pumps.
Government published its response to the CCC 2024 Progress Report
The government has published its formal response to the Climate Change Committee's 2024 progress report, saying it is acting on all 35 recommendations but that only a third of the emissions cuts needed for 2030 are covered by credible plans.
Consumer Scotland publishes response to Ofgem 24-7 metering support consultation
Consumer Scotland has published its response to Ofgem's statutory consultation on Supplier 24-7 Metering Support, backing the proposal while raising concerns about online-only contact routes and rural connectivity.
Consultation on ECO4 and GBIS mid-scheme changes closes
The National Insulation Association has answered a government consultation on mid-scheme changes to ECO4 and the Great British Insulation Scheme, which closed on 12 December 2024.
Draft Fuel Poverty Strategy consultation opens in Northern Ireland
The Department for Communities has opened a public consultation on a draft Fuel Poverty Strategy for Northern Ireland, alongside proposals for a new fuel poverty energy efficiency scheme.
Ofgem confirms standing charge will not be lowered
Ofgem has confirmed, after a year of consultation, that it will not lower the standing charge paid by energy customers regardless of how much energy they use.
Ofgem opens consultation on energy price cap operating cost and debt allowances
Ofgem has opened a consultation on updating the operating cost and debt allowances inside the energy price cap, the first such review since the cap began in 2019.
Ofgem publishes consultation on a debt relief scheme for energy debt accrued during the energy crisis
Ofgem has opened a consultation on a one-off, time limited debt relief scheme for energy debt built up during the energy crisis, with responses due by 6 February 2025.
Consultation on reforms to the Energy Performance of Buildings regime launched
The government opened a consultation on 4 December 2024 on reforming Energy Performance Certificates, Display Energy Certificates and air conditioning inspection reports in England and Wales.
MCS publishes updated MIS 3005-D heat pump design standard
MCS has published an updated MIS 3005-D heat pump design standard, clarifying hybrid system compliance, defining hybrid and supplementary heat sources, and replacing the 100% heat load rule with a 55% minimum.
Clean Power 2030 Action Plan published with 45-47 GW solar target
The government's Clean Power 2030 Action Plan sets a solar target of 45 to 47 GW by 2030, up from 16.6 GW, as a private member's bill on solar for new homes awaits its second reading.
DESNZ announces Review of Ofgem
The government announced in December 2024 a review of Ofgem's duties, mandate, powers and approach to enforcement, a move the regulator has said could reshape how households in vulnerable situations are protected.
DESNZ publishes call for evidence on review of Ofgem
The government published a call for evidence in December 2024 reviewing Ofgem's role, including a proposal to extend the regulator's remit to enforce consumer law for low-carbon technologies.
Energy UK joins Electrifying our Future as strategic partner
Energy UK has joined the Electrical Contractors' Association's Electrifying our Future campaign as a strategic partner, the trade body announced on 1 December 2024.
Fuller TrustMark audit concludes on solid wall insulation quality
A fuller TrustMark audit into solid wall insulation installed under two government schemes concluded in mid-December 2024, after routine checks found significant work that did not meet the required standard.
UK government launched consultation on the ZEV transition
The government has opened an eight-week consultation on proposals to support the shift to zero emission vehicles, alongside confirming the 2030 end of sales of new purely petrol and diesel cars.
Government proposes minimum EPC C for rental properties by 2030
The UK government has proposed raising the minimum energy efficiency standard for privately rented homes in England and Wales to EPC band C by 2030, with new tenancies required to comply by 2028.
Government published the Clean Power 2030 Action Plan
The government published the Clean Power 2030 Action Plan in December 2024, setting an accelerated timeframe for decarbonising the UK's energy and power sectors.
Government published an updated National Planning Policy Framework
The Government published an updated, growth-focused National Planning Policy Framework in December 2024, part of a wider push to speed up clean power projects and reach net zero.
Government sets out plan for a new era of clean electricity
The government set out plans in December 2024 for a "new era of clean electricity", as official figures show gas demand at its lowest level since the early 1990s.
National Planning Policy Framework reformed
England's National Planning Policy Framework was reformed in December 2024 after a consultation, with the government stating that delivery of net zero infrastructure at the required pace depends on addressing planning system delays.
Net Zero Carbon Buildings Standard launched
The Net Zero Carbon Buildings Standard, launched in late 2024, sets operational energy limits and on-site renewable generation targets for all building types, according to the UK Green Building Council.
Ofgem consults on delivery, funding and eligibility options for an energy debt relief scheme
Ofgem has opened a consultation on whether to create an energy debt relief scheme, setting out delivery, audit, funding and eligibility options for support aimed at crisis-era arrears.
Ofgem consults on a one-off Energy Debt Relief Scheme
Ofgem consulted in December 2024 on a one-off Energy Debt Relief Scheme that could support up to 2.3 million customers and write off between £0.5bn and £1bn of crisis-era energy debt.
Ofgem launches energy price cap consultations
Ofgem opened consultations in December 2024 on the energy price cap, including one on supplier operating costs and debt allowances, drawing a response from the British Gas Energy Trust.
Ofgem published its Debt Strategy
Ofgem has set out how it will reset historic crisis debt, raise debt standards and reform debt management, with a Debt Relief Scheme expected to help up to 200,000 households.
Ofgem Review launched with call for evidence
The government has opened the first comprehensive review of Ofgem in its 25-year history, calling for evidence on the regulator's powers, duties and consumer protection role.
Oxford smoke control area expands to cover the entire city
Oxford's smoke control area replaced its existing zones and expanded to cover the whole city from 1 December 2024, following a consultation in which 51.92% of respondents backed the change.
REMA autumn update rules out separate renewables market options
The government's December 2024 REMA autumn update ruled out the green power pool and split market options, ending proposals for a separate market for renewables in Great Britain.
Requirements commence for other private tenancies
Alarm requirements under the Smoke, Heat and Carbon Monoxide Alarms for Private Tenancies Regulations (Northern Ireland) 2024 now apply to all private tenancies in Northern Ireland, having commenced for new tenancies on 1 September 2024.
Statutory consultation on operating cost and debt allowances published
Ofgem has published its December 2024 statutory consultation on four new operating cost and debt allowances for the energy price cap, setting out its minded-to positions.
- November 2024
Citizens Advice urges Ofgem to limit back-billing to six months for smart meter customers
Citizens Advice has called on Ofgem to cut the back-billing window to six months for smart meter customers, after helping with more than 52,000 energy billing problems in 2024.
DESNZ publishes options assessment on raising heat pump minimum energy performance standards
DESNZ has set out proposed minimum energy performance standards for heat pumps in Great Britain, with higher seasonal space heating efficiency thresholds from 2027 and again from 2029.
MCS published an update on scheme redevelopment
MCS has set out what its redeveloped certification scheme will contain when documents are published in January 2025, with a transition period expected to run for 12 to 18 months.
SMMT calls for urgent government intervention due to weak EV demand and ZEV Mandate costs
The UK automotive trade body has called for urgent government intervention on the Zero Emission Vehicle Mandate, saying weak electric vehicle demand will cost the industry almost £6 billion in 2024.
Clean Heat Market Mechanism implementation confirmed from 1 April 2025
The Government has confirmed the Clean Heat Market Mechanism will be implemented from 1 April 2025, alongside Warm Homes Plan funding of about £1bn for retrofit in 2025/26.
Ofgem approved REC Change Proposal R0209
Ofgem has approved a Retail Energy Code change proposal setting out how Market-wide Half-Hourly Settlement arrangements will be implemented across the electricity retail market.
MCS publishes response to MCS 020 consultation and sets out key changes to the standard
MCS has published its response to the MCS 020 consultation, confirming a split into two standards, a 37 dB(A) overall sound limit and publication of sound power levels on its Product Directory.
Ofgem sets price cap for 1 January to 31 March 2025
Ofgem has set the energy price cap for 1 January to 31 March 2025 at £1,738 a year for a typical Direct Debit dual fuel household, a rise of £21 or 1.2% on the current level.
DESNZ announces further £30 million for BUS in 2024/25, raising Year 3 budget to £180 million
The Department for Energy Security and Net Zero has added £30 million to the Boiler Upgrade Scheme for 2024/25, taking the Year 3 budget to £180 million.
DESNZ announces measures to support low-carbon heating
DESNZ has added £30 million to the Boiler Upgrade Scheme this financial year, set a reformed Clean Heat Market Mechanism for 1 April 2025 and removed the one metre boundary rule for air source heat pumps in England.
The autumn 2024 energy price cap disclosure consultation closed
Ofgem's call for input on disclosure arrangements for the autumn 2024 energy price cap consultation closed on 20 November 2024, covering how models and data are shared with stakeholders.
UKHSA issues first yellow cold weather alert of the year for five English regions
The UK Health Security Agency has issued its first yellow cold weather alert of the season for five English regions, running until 21 November, as National Energy Action warns of fuel poverty risks.
AECB publishes Passive House resource for the UK
The AECB has published a downloadable PDF titled "Passive House low energy low carbon buildings arrive in the UK!", dated 14 November 2024, alongside two further low energy building resources.
DESNZ publishes ECO4 and GBIS mid-scheme changes consultation
DESNZ has opened a consultation on mid-scheme changes to ECO4 and the Great British Insulation Scheme, covering installation standards, guarantees and a proposed Pay-For-Performance mechanism.
ECO4A insulation measures per property rules applied retrospectively
Amendments to the Energy Company Obligation orders limit insulation measures per property and apply retrospectively to installations completed on or after 14th November 2024, under an order made on 31st July 2025.
Legislation to allow combined loft and cavity wall insulation and smart thermostats in GBIS from consultation publication date
The government has confirmed it will legislate to let Great British Insulation Scheme projects install two insulation measures together and fit smart thermostats in low-income homes, backdated to 14 November 2024.
Cornwall Council adopts Housing Decarbonisation Strategy
Cornwall Council adopted its Housing Decarbonisation Strategy on 13 November 2024, setting out how it will cut emissions from homes that account for a fifth of the county's total.
AECB warns Government that Renewable Heat Incentive proposals could encourage emissions
The AECB has warned that the proposed Renewable Heat Incentive is so badly designed it can pay people to install systems that burn more fossil fuel and emit more carbon dioxide.
Addendum to BRIA for amended New Build Heat Standard published
The Scottish Government has published an addendum to its impact assessment for an amended New Build Heat Standard, permitting bioenergy and peat heating systems in new buildings from 1 January 2025.
BEAMA publishes position paper urging EPC reform to include indoor air quality
BEAMA has published a position paper calling on Government to widen the Energy Performance Certificate remit so that it assesses the indoor air quality of homes, not only their energy efficiency.
Citizens Advice responds to Ofgem's Consumer Vulnerability Strategy Refresh
Citizens Advice has welcomed Ofgem's refreshed Consumer Vulnerability Strategy but pressed for stronger action on energy debt, back billing, the priority services register and standing charges.
Which? calls on government to tackle cost and other barriers to heat pump and EV switching
Which? has called on the government to remove cost, awareness and infrastructure barriers to heat pumps and electric vehicles, after its annual tracker found most homeowners consider heat pumps too expensive.
Which? survey finds smart meter fix waits exceed seven weeks on average
Which? research published on 7 November 2024 found energy customers wait more than seven weeks on average for a smart meter or monitor fault to be fixed, and nearly 14 weeks where the problem remains unresolved.
Consultation on Consumer Vulnerability Strategy closes
Ofgem's consultation on a refreshed Consumer Vulnerability Strategy closed on 5 November 2024, drawing 67 responses ahead of a final decision published in April 2025.
NEA responds to consultation on refreshing Ofgem's Consumer Vulnerability Strategy
National Energy Action has published its response to Ofgem's consultation on refreshing the Consumer Vulnerability Strategy, arguing the update must change how suppliers, networks and the regulator identify and treat vulnerable consumers.
UK announces second NDC of at least 81% emissions reduction by 2035
The Prime Minister announced in November 2024 that the UK's second Nationally Determined Contribution would require an at least 81% cut in greenhouse gas emissions by 2035 against 1990 levels.
Another increase in the energy price cap announced
The energy price cap rose again in the latest announcement, with Energy UK and Ember both linking the increase to rising gas costs and setting it against the Government's Warm Homes Plan.
Clean Heat Market Mechanism introduced
The Clean Heat Market Mechanism, which obliges heating appliance manufacturers to sell a rising proportion of heat pumps, was introduced by the Government in November 2024 in a form much weakened since 2022.
Consultation on ECO4 and GBIS mid-scheme changes concluded
The government has concluded its November 2024 consultation on mid-scheme changes to ECO4 and the Great British Insulation Scheme, confirming rule changes intended to lift delivery before both schemes end in March 2026.
ED3 price control framework consultation published
Ofgem has published a framework consultation for the electricity distribution price control ED3, which will set the rules for network companies from 2028.
England planning rules updated to include heat pumps under permitted development
England's permitted development rules were changed in November 2024 to cover heat pumps, dropping the one metre rule and allowing units that provide cooling as well as heating.
Ofgem opens enforcement investigation into Utilita
Ofgem has opened an enforcement investigation into Utilita's compliance with the rules governing the installation and use of prepayment meters for domestic customers, it disclosed in November 2024.
SMMT warns industry likely to fall short of 22% ZEV target
The SMMT said in November 2024 that electric cars made up 18.7% of sales and the industry was likely to miss the 22% zero emission vehicle target, at a possible £1.8bn compliance cost.
Social tariff working group established
The Scottish Government set up a social tariff working group in November 2024 to co-design a deliverable policy with suppliers and third sector organisations, and sent its recommendations to the UK Government in March 2025.
Updated technical handbooks published
Updated Scottish technical handbooks applying from 1 January 2025 were published in November 2024, amending the New Build Heat Standard and gigabit broadband provision for new homes.
- October 2024
Autumn Budget 2024 published
The Autumn Budget 2024 raises the Energy Profits Levy to 38 per cent, freezes fuel duty for a year and extends the Household Support Fund, with £100 billion of extra capital investment over five years.
Chancellor delivers Labour's first budget since 2009 with climate and energy measures
Rachel Reeves has delivered Labour's first budget since 2009, freezing fuel duty again while raising the windfall tax on oil and gas profits and funding electric vehicle charging and clean energy projects.
Government blog responds to reports solar may be optional under Future Homes Standard
The government has said it wants solar panels on as many new homes as possible, after reports that the Future Homes Standard may make them optional for housebuilders.
IM 026 changed to a substantial innovation measure
Ofgem has approved the standard uplift innovation measure IM 026 as a substantial innovation measure under ECO4, following an application assessed through the TAP process.
MCS published an update on solar PV module fire classifications
MCS has set out how a change to a European standard in September 2023 stopped fire test laboratories issuing fire classifications for solar PV modules, blocking roof-integrated products from Building Regulations compliance and MCS certification.
New Homes (Solar Generation) Bill receives first reading
A private member's bill requiring solar panels on new homes in England from October 2026 has had its first reading in the Commons, with a second reading set for 17 January 2025.
Scottish Government publishes Heat in Buildings progress report 2024
The Scottish Government has published its 2024 Heat in Buildings progress report, showing over £210 million of delivery scheme funding in 2023-24 and rising heat pump installations.
Consultation on Support for Low Carbon Heating in Residential Buildings published
Northern Ireland's Economy Minister has published the response to a consultation on support for low carbon heating in homes, setting out findings that will shape a future support scheme.
Welsh Ministers approve amendments to Approved Document J on carbon monoxide alarms
The Welsh Ministers have approved amendments to Approved Document J, extending carbon monoxide alarm guidance to new or replacement fixed flued combustion appliances of any fuel type in Welsh dwellings from 6 January 2025.
Autumn Budget 2024 increases Energy Security and Net Zero departmental spending
The Autumn Budget raises planned spending for the Energy Security and Net Zero department from £6.4 billion in 2023-24 to £9.0 billion in 2024-25 and £10.3 billion in 2025-26.
Government to consult on private rented sector EPC C standard by 2030
The government has said it will consult by the end of the year on requiring privately rented homes in England to reach EPC C by 2030, as analysis puts the winter bill gap between efficient and inefficient homes at £385.
Ofgem minded to remove ban on acquisition-only tariffs from 1 October 2024
Ofgem has said it is minded to lift the ban on acquisition-only tariffs from 1 October 2024, prompting a coalition of consumer groups and suppliers to urge it to reconsider.
Price cap changes allow suppliers 11% more profit on standard variable tariffs
The End Fuel Poverty Coalition says price cap changes from October let suppliers earn 11% more profit on standard variable tariffs, part of £483 billion in profits since the bills crisis began.
Private Members' Bill on Lithium-ion Battery Safety introduced at second reading
Lord Redesdale has introduced a Private Members' Bill on lithium-ion battery safety in the House of Lords, carrying clauses proposed by Electrical Safety First, with committee stage set for 22 October.
Research finds 84% of disabled pensioners expect to lose Winter Fuel Payments
Opinium research reported by the End Fuel Poverty Coalition finds 84% of older people with a long-term health condition or disability say they will no longer receive Winter Fuel Payments.
Second phase of debt cost levelisation proposed no earlier than October 2024
Ofgem has opened a statutory consultation on levelling debt-related costs between standard credit and direct debit customers, with a second phase proposed no earlier than October 2024.
TrustMark notifies DESNZ of non-compliant external wall insulation installations
TrustMark told the government in October 2024 that a high share of external wall insulation installed under ECO4 and the Great British Insulation Scheme failed to meet the required quality standard.
Winter Fuel Payment means testing proceeds despite campaign concerns
The UK Government is proceeding with means testing the Winter Fuel Payment, as charities warn up to 970,000 eligible older people miss out on Pension Credit and will lose the payment.
- September 2024
NIA responds to BS 40104 retrofit assessment code of practice
The National Insulation Association has published its response to the BS 40104 retrofit assessment code of practice, welcoming better quality assessments but warning of significant cost, time and workforce impacts.
Citizens Advice published its response to Ofgem's initial policy consultation
Citizens Advice has told Ofgem that its proposed review mechanism for the opex escalator under RIIO-T2 is not in consumers' interests because it could only ever raise allowances.
Citizens Advice publishes report on targeted bill support across essential markets
Citizens Advice has published a report finding that targeted bill support across energy, water, broadband and motor insurance is failing low-income households, and setting out short-term actions for government.
ECO4, ECO Flex and GBIS closed pending Warm Homes Plan announcement
Act on Energy has reported that ECO4, ECO Flex and the Great British Insulation Scheme are closed, with all three waiting on the next UK Government announcement of the Warm Homes Plan.
Ofgem opens call for evidence on ECO4 and GBIS evidencing routes
Ofgem has opened a call for input on how eligibility is evidenced under ECO4 and the Great British Insulation Scheme, covering data-matching and benefit letter routes.
Ofgem consults on refreshing the Consumer Vulnerability Strategy and launches Consumer Confidence programme
Ofgem consulted on refreshing its Consumer Vulnerability Strategy in September 2024 and set out a Consumer Confidence programme to raise customer service standards across the energy market.
SSEN publishes SDP methodology consultation and opens Fawley Grid Supply Point consultation
SSEN Distribution has opened a consultation on how it will draw up its Strategic Development Plans, alongside a second area-specific consultation covering the Fawley Grid Supply Point.
Product Regulation and Metrology Bill published
The Government published the Product Regulation and Metrology Bill on 5 September 2024, with a safety charity welcoming its scope on online marketplace goods and e-bike battery risks.
Cadent publishes consumer insights ahead of RIIO-GD3 Business Plan submission
Cadent has published consumer research gathered over 24 months, saying the findings will shape the RIIO-GD3 Business Plan it will submit to Ofgem later in 2024.
Analysis estimates NHS cost of winter fuel payment cut
Analysis from the End Fuel Poverty Coalition estimates that pensioners pushed into cold damp homes by the winter fuel payment cut could cost the NHS more than £169m a year.
BSI PAS 63100:2024 released for battery storage fire safety in dwellings
The Electrical Contractors' Association has reported the release of BSI PAS 63100:2024, a fast track specification setting good practice for fire protection of battery energy storage systems in dwellings.
Chancellor refuses to reverse Winter Fuel Payments cut
Rachel Reeves has refused to reverse cuts to Winter Fuel Payments, as the Energy Secretary announced plans to force landlords to meet stricter energy efficiency standards for rented homes.
Draft BS 40104:2024 retrofit assessment standard opened for national consultation
A draft British Standard setting out how domestic retrofit assessments should be carried out has been published for national consultation, with public comment invited before 22 September 2024.
Energy Secretary announces warm homes plan for renters
The Energy Secretary has announced plans to ban landlords from renting out properties that fail stricter energy efficiency standards, covering private and social rented housing in England.
Ofgem signals new smart meter Guaranteed Standards
Ofgem has confirmed new Guaranteed Standards of Performance for smart meter installation and fault handling, with consumer compensation starting on 23 February 2026.
Which? publishes consumer research on EPC reform
Which? has published consumer research based on 18 in-depth interviews with UK owner-occupiers, setting out six principles for reforming the content and design of Energy Performance Certificates.
Winter Fuel Payment backlash enters fourth week
The campaign against the removal of Winter Fuel Payments from millions of pensioners has entered a fourth week, with the Prime Minister defending the decision as petitions pass 700,000 signatures.
- August 2024
ECIU analysis finds EPC band F homes face bills around £330 a year higher than band C under October price cap
ECIU analysis of Ofgem's October 2024 price cap finds homes rated EPC band F pay around £330 a year more for gas than band C homes, and around £630 more across both fuels.
Four new solar prior approval application types launched on Planning Portal
Planning Portal has added four solar prior approval application types to its online service, covering domestic and non-domestic solar equipment and solar canopies, with eligibility rules built into each form.
Ofgem announces new price cap as NEA projects 400,000 more households in fuel poverty
Ofgem has set a new price cap taking a typical annual energy bill to £1,717 from 1 October, as National Energy Action projects 6 million UK households in fuel poverty.
Ofgem to confirm actual October price cap level
Ofgem was due to publish the actual October to December 2024 price cap on 23 August, with analysts and campaigners expecting a rise of around 10 per cent for a typical household.
Ofgem publishes standing charges options paper
Ofgem has published an options paper on reducing domestic standing charges by £20 to £100 a year and asked suppliers to offer no or low standing charge tariffs, with feedback open until 20 September 2024.
Ofgem sets price cap for 1 October to 31 December 2024
Ofgem has set the energy price cap for 1 October to 31 December 2024 at £1717 a year for a typical Direct Debit household, a 10% rise, and opened a consultation on standing charges.
Elmhurst Energy sets out proposed changes to ventilation rules in Future Homes Standard consultation
Elmhurst Energy has set out proposed changes to ventilation testing and commissioning under the Future Homes Standard consultation, including a ban on rotating vane anemometers and new rules for existing homes.
Consumer Consent Solution consultation published
Ofgem has published its decision confirming the Retail Energy Code Company as Delivery Body for a Consumer Consent Solution, following a consultation that closed in October 2024.
Nesta launches project on rebalancing energy levies
Nesta has begun an ongoing project examining how shifting policy levies between electricity and gas bills would affect UK households, with findings due to inform debate on cheaper electricity.
Ofgem consults on appointing RECCo as delivery body
Ofgem has set out a final impact assessment for a digital consumer consent platform to be delivered by RECCo, with monetised benefits outweighing costs in its central scenario.
Ofgem published an options paper on ways to reduce standing charges
Ofgem set out options for cutting the daily standing charge in an August 2024 paper, part of a review that later produced a lower standing charge tariff requirement and a pilot.
Ofgem sets Quarter 4 2024 price cap at £1,717
Ofgem announced in August 2024 that the energy price cap for Quarter 4 2024 would be £1,717, an increase of £149 on the Quarter 3 2024 cap of £1,568.
Scottish Government opens consultation on Passivhaus-inspired building standards without solar requirement
The Scottish Government has opened a consultation on building standards modelled on Passivhaus Classic, which the solar trade body says omits solar power entirely and lags behind EU and English plans.
Supplier allowed profit margins to rise 11% under new cap
Ofgem has raised the energy price cap by 10% from 1 October, taking a typical household bill in England, Scotland and Wales to £1,717, while the profit margins suppliers are allowed to make rise 11%.
Suppliers required to provide a way to report electricity supply failures
From 1 August all electricity suppliers must give customers a way to report a loss of supply, with support available around the clock, as the radio teleswitch switch-off approaches.
- July 2024
Intertek Shanghai announced as an MCS product certification body
Intertek Shanghai becomes the tenth MCS product certification body and the second outside Europe, certifying solar panels and heat pumps for the UK market.
Charities write to Chancellor urging reconsideration of Winter Fuel Payment removal
More than 50 organisations have written to Chancellor Rachel Reeves asking the Government to reconsider restricting the Winter Fuel Payment to pensioners on certain means-tested benefits.
Rapid review of the Environmental Improvement Plan announced
Defra has confirmed that the rapid review of the Environmental Improvement Plan announced on 30 July 2024 is complete, with a revised plan due in 2025 and no specific air quality commitments set out so far.
Chancellor announces Winter Fuel Payment eligibility restricted to benefit recipients
The Chancellor restricted Winter Fuel Payment eligibility from winter 2024-25 to people receiving Pension Credit and certain other benefits, cutting the Block-Grant Adjustment by an estimated £150 million.
Government announces winter fuel payments will be means-tested
Means testing of the Winter Fuel Payment, announced on 29 July 2024, drove a 145% rise in pension credit applications, with nearly half of processed claims rejected.
Energy UK publishes policy proposals for affordable bills this winter
Energy UK has proposed funding energy efficiency schemes from general taxation, shifting policy costs onto gas bills and doubling the Warm Home Discount to cut household bills this winter.
Resolution Foundation publishes net zero investment priorities for new Government
The Resolution Foundation says UK net zero investment must rise four-fold on post-2010 levels, and warns that high upfront costs for heat pumps could put low carbon heating out of reach for poorer households.
CCC calls for reversal of recent policy rollbacks
The Climate Change Committee's 2024 progress report to Parliament urges the new Government to reverse recent rollbacks on boilers, rented homes and fossil-fuel vehicle sales.
CCC finds only a third of 2030 emissions reductions covered by credible plans
The Climate Change Committee's 2024 progress report to Parliament finds only a third of the emissions cuts needed for the UK's 2030 target are backed by credible plans, up from a quarter a year earlier.
CCC says UK off track for Net Zero with only a third of 2030 emissions cuts covered by credible plans
The Climate Change Committee says only a third of the emissions cuts needed for the UK's 2030 target are backed by credible plans, and has sent the new Government ten priority recommendations.
ESPR framework came into effect
The EU's Ecodesign for Sustainable Products Regulation took effect on 18 July 2024, replacing the Ecodesign Directive, and the UK has since confirmed it will keep recognising CE marking for products regulated under it.
Which? investigation finds EPCs inaccurate and calls for reform
Which? has published an investigation finding that most sampled Energy Performance Certificates were inaccurate or carried unhelpful recommendations, and is calling on the government to reform the system.
E3G publishes framework for cheap, clean electricity for Great Britain by 2030
E3G has published a framework for moving Great Britain to a low-cost, clean electricity system by 2030, arguing that continued gas dependence leaves households and public finances exposed.
Welsh Government publishes Heat strategy for Wales with action plan
The Welsh Government has published its Heat strategy for Wales and an accompanying action plan, setting out how net zero heat will be achieved across all sectors by 2050.
E3G publishes briefing on a warmer, fairer private rented sector
E3G has published a briefing setting out how a higher energy efficiency standard of EPC C could be delivered in the private rented sector in England and Wales.
Nesta publishes Delivering clean heat: a policy plan
Nesta has published a policy plan for decarbonising UK home heating, alongside analysis that more than three million homes must install heat pumps or other low-carbon heating this Parliament.
Consumer Scotland publishes response to Ofgem consultation on acquisition-only tariffs ban
Consumer Scotland has published its response to Ofgem's statutory consultation on the future of the ban on acquisition-only energy tariffs, dated 8 July 2024.
SMMT calls for halving of VAT on BEVs for three years
The Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders has called on the next government to halve VAT on battery electric cars for three years, as private retail demand fell for a ninth month.
Consumer Scotland published response opposing early BAT removal
Consumer Scotland has told Ofgem it opposes removing the ban on acquisition-only tariffs on 1 October 2024, saying the protection should stay for the foreseeable future.
Energy Price Guarantee ceased applying to tariffs
The Energy Price Guarantee stopped applying to tariffs on 1 July 2024, ending the scheme that capped supplier rates and required landlords to pass on discounts to tenants.
Government announces Great British Energy
The government announced Great British Energy in July 2024, following the general election, as part of a wider set of plans that now shape debate about the future of the gas grid.
Government announces means-testing of Winter Fuel Payments
The Government has announced that Winter Fuel Payments will be means-tested from this winter, restricted to pensioner families on Pension Credit or an equivalent benefit, saving £1.3 billion rising to £1.5 billion.
UK Government commits to bringing forward the ban on sale of new petrol and diesel cars to 2030
The UK Government has committed to moving the ban on sales of new petrol and diesel cars forward from 2035 to 2030, a change set out alongside the Zero Emission Vehicle Mandate.
Government commits to Great British Energy legislation in first King's Speech
The government has committed to putting draft legislation on Great British Energy, a publicly owned clean energy company, into the first King's Speech on 17 July.
Government planned significant cut to Winter Fuel Payment eligibility
The government planned a significant cut to Winter Fuel Payment eligibility in July 2024, then reversed course so all pensioners keep the payment, with higher incomes clawed back.
Government removed the de facto onshore wind ban in England
The government has removed the de facto ban on onshore wind in England that had been in place since 2015, according to its formal response to the Climate Change Committee's progress report.
UK Government restricted Winter Fuel Payment entitlement
The UK Government restricted Winter Fuel Payment entitlement in July 2024 to households receiving Pension Credit and other means-tested benefits, cutting the Block-Grant Adjustment by £147 million in 2024-25.
Home Energy Model set to replace SAP under Future Homes Standard consultation
The Future Homes Standard consultation proposes replacing the Standard Assessment Procedure with the Home Energy Model, a more detailed calculation method for new homes in the UK.
Labour wins UK General Election and forms new government
Labour won the UK General Election and Sir Keir Starmer became Prime Minister with a majority of 181, completing cabinet energy appointments at the Department for Energy Security and Net Zero.
New MCS Scheme to come into effect in summer 2024
MCS has said its redeveloped certification scheme will come into effect in summer 2024, resetting the consumer protections attached to certified small-scale renewable installations in UK homes.
Ofgem opens compliance engagement with six largest suppliers on smart meter obligations
Ofgem opened compliance engagement with Great Britain's six largest energy suppliers in July 2024 to examine why some smart meters are not operating in smart mode.
Stage one consultation launched on Scottish Passivhaus equivalent
The Scottish Government has opened a second consultation on its planned Scottish equivalent to the Passivhaus standard, setting out proposed energy and environmental targets and a revised implementation date of Autumn 2029.
Which? published previous report on reforming EPCs
Which? published a policy report in July 2024 on reforming energy performance certificates, based on interviews with 18 homeowners across the UK.
- June 2024
Citizens Advice and others write to Ofgem urging reconsideration of proposal to remove the Ban on Acquisition-only Tariffs
Citizens Advice and seven other organisations have written to Ofgem asking it to reconsider a proposal to remove the ban on acquisition-only tariffs, which limit deals to new customers.
Coalition writes to Ofgem urging it not to lift ban on acquisition-only tariffs
Which? and a coalition of energy firms and consumer groups have written to Ofgem urging it not to lift the ban on acquisition-only tariffs, which allow suppliers to offer cheaper deals to new customers only.
Citizens Advice published its response to Ofgem's operating cost allowance review consultation
Citizens Advice has told Ofgem not to loosen the operating cost allowance in the energy price cap without clear evidence, arguing for lower-quartile benchmarking of supplier costs.
Nesta publishes policy blueprint for coordinated street-by-street low-carbon heat switching
Nesta has published a policy blueprint proposing a voluntary, coordinated street-by-street approach to switching homes to low-carbon heating, alongside the existing individual-led model.
Energy Performance of Buildings (England and Wales) (Amendment) Regulations 2024 come into force
Amendment regulations on energy performance data sharing in England and Wales came into force on 24th June 2024, widening who may receive assessment data and what the register keeper may publish.
BEAMA publishes policy recommendations for the next UK Government
BEAMA has published four policy priorities for the next UK Government covering grid investment, electricity markets, heating technologies and smart metering, ahead of the General Election on 4 July.
Citizens Advice publishes response to government consultation package on energy smart appliances standards
Citizens Advice has responded to three government consultations on standards for energy smart appliances and load control organisations, backing wider consumer protections for the load control sector.
CTSI warns energy-efficiency pledges undermined by lack of consumer confidence
The Chartered Trading Standards Institute has published polling showing that low awareness of funding and installers is holding back home energy-efficiency work, and has called for mandatory licensing of installers.
Which? warns EPCs are unreliable and calls for reform
Which? has published mystery shopping research finding that Energy Performance Certificates are often inaccurate and recommend costly improvements, and is calling on the next government to reform them.
Ed Miliband promises not to press ahead with 2035 boiler ban
Ed Miliband promised before taking office not to press ahead with a 2035 ban on gas boiler sales, leaving the phase out date for existing homes uncertain.
- May 2024
Solar Energy Scotland welcomes removal of planning permission requirement for Scottish rooftop solar
Solar Energy Scotland has welcomed the removal of the need for planning permission for rooftop solar in Scotland, saying the change cuts red tape and will speed up deployment.
Which? publishes policy paper calling for mandatory installer certification
Which? has called for mandatory certification of installers of low carbon heating, micro generation and insulation, plus government oversight of the schemes and a review of Trading Standards Services.
Scottish Government publishes planning circular 1/2024 on householder permitted development rights
The Scottish Government has published planning circular 1/2024, setting out the householder permitted development rights covering heat pumps, wind turbines, solar panels and biomass flues in Scotland.
Public Accounts Committee publishes report on decarbonising home heating
The Committee of Public Accounts says progress on heat pump installations falls short of the government's ambition of 600,000 a year by 2028, with costs and confusion holding households back.
Changes to Permitted Development Rights for solar expected to come into effect in Scotland
Changes to permitted development rights for solar in Scotland, expected to take effect on Friday 24 May, remove the 50kW ceiling on rooftop installations and relax rules in conservation areas.
Citizens Advice responds to Ofgem's call for input on the future of domestic price protection
Citizens Advice has told Ofgem that time-of-use tariffs expected after marketwide half hourly settlement bring new risks, and that default tariff consumers still need protection.
Government publishes plan to empower and protect energy consumers
The government has published an 18 page plan setting out how it aims to empower and protect consumers in the retail energy market through greater transparency and competition.
Ofgem confirms energy price cap for July to September 2024
Ofgem has confirmed the energy price cap will fall by 7% from 1 July to 30 September 2024, giving a typical dual fuel direct debit household an annual bill of £1,568.
Ofgem price cap falls but bills remain far above pre-crisis levels
Analysis from the Energy and Climate Intelligence Unit finds average annual dual fuel bills remain around 40 per cent, or £450, above pre-crisis levels even as the Ofgem price cap falls.
PDR changes intended to come into force
Scottish Ministers have laid a statutory instrument changing permitted development rights for solar panels, heat pumps, windows and electricity network infrastructure, intended to come into force on 24 May 2024.
New permitted development classes introduced for domestic solar, wind and windows in Scotland
Scotland has replaced its permitted development class for domestic wind turbines and added new classes covering solar panels, solar thermal and window alterations, in force from 24 May 2024.
Scottish permitted development rights for rooftop solar come into force
Rooftop solar panels in Scotland no longer need planning permission after the Scottish Government's permitted development overhaul came into force on 24 May 2024, removing the previous 50kW limit.
NEA responds to DESNZ call for evidence on default energy tariffs
National Energy Action has told the government that the price cap's consumer benefits should be kept while reform tackles multi-rate meters and a social tariff is consulted on.
Government states Future Homes Standard will come into force in 2025
The government confirmed in a written statement on 15 May 2024 that the Future Homes Standard will come into force in 2025, with rooftop solar to be encouraged in new homes.
Ofgem opens consultation on energy price cap operating cost allowances review
Ofgem has opened a consultation on how it sets the operating cost allowances inside the energy price cap, covering core costs, debt, smart metering and industry charges, with responses due by 14 June 2024.
Consumer Scotland publishes response to Ofgem Future Price Protection discussion paper
Consumer Scotland has published its response to Ofgem's Future Price Protection discussion paper, urging the regulator to place consumer outcomes at the centre of any reform of the energy price cap.
Retrofit Roundtable urges Scottish Government to act on retrofit recommendations
The Retrofit Roundtable, backed by SNIPEF and 12 industry partners, has published a report urging the Scottish Government to act quickly on retrofit so Scotland meets its net-zero and fuel poverty targets.
Connect Direct digital platform went live
The Energy Networks Association has confirmed its Connect Direct platform, a standardised digital application system for low carbon technology installations, went live as of May 2024.
Indefinite CE recognition established for 21 product regulations
The previous government removed the time limit on CE recognition in May 2024, making CE marking indefinitely valid for 21 product regulations including the 2010 Ecodesign Regulations.
Inflation returns to Bank of England 2.0% target
UK inflation reached the Bank of England's 2.0% target in May 2024, down from a 41-year high of 11.1% in October 2022, though household energy bills remain well above their pre-crisis levels.
Ofgem publishes benchmark maximum charges for Charge Restriction Period 12b
Ofgem has published the regional benchmark maximum charges for gas and electricity under the default tariff cap for Charge Restriction Period 12b, with all values given exclusive of VAT.
- April 2024
Which? publishes EPC reform policy paper
Which? has published a policy paper calling on the UK and Scottish governments to reform Energy Performance Certificates on information, accessibility and accuracy, saying current certificates fail households.
Consultation on smart and secure electricity system implementation published
The government has published its response to the 2024 consultation on smart and secure electricity systems, confirming standards for energy smart appliances, a load control licence and time of use tariff rules.
Consultation on changes to various permitted development rights closes
The government consultation on changes to various permitted development rights, covering home extensions, electric vehicle chargepoints and air source heat pumps, closed for responses on 9 April 2024.
Permitted development rights consultation closes
A government consultation on changes to permitted development rights in England, including rules affecting air source heat pumps, closed on 9 April 2024 after opening on 13 February.
ECIU analysis scores Government energy security strategy 3/10 two years on
The Energy and Climate Intelligence Unit has scored the Government three out of ten on the commitments in its British Energy Security Strategy, two years after it was published.
HHIC responds to DLUHC consultation on permitted development rights changes
The Heating and Hotwater Industry Council has told a government consultation that the one metre boundary rule and the 0.6 cubic metre size limit for air source heat pumps should not be removed without safeguards.
Additional £735m energy debt charge takes effect under Ofgem rules
Ofgem's additional £735m bad debt allowance took effect on 1 April 2024, adding £28 a year to the typical household bill on top of £842m already charged.
New approach to consumer protection in energy markets to apply from April 2024 onwards
The government has confirmed it will develop a new approach to consumer protection in energy markets applying from April 2024, including options such as social tariffs.
New Build Heat Standard takes effect in Scotland
Scotland's New Build Heat Standard took effect on 1 April 2024, barring direct emission heating in new buildings whose building warrant is applied for on or after that date.
Climate Change Levy main rates change for gas and solid fuels
From 1 April 2024 the main Climate Change Levy rate on gas rises to match the frozen electricity rate, with solid fuel rates raised proportionally and LPG left frozen.
Energy Price Guarantee replaced by levelisation scheme
The Energy Price Guarantee's prepayment unit rate discount was replaced on 1 April 2024 by a non-volumetric payment levelisation scheme that shifts costs between payment methods.
Ofgem began reviewing permanent removal of prepayment premium
Ofgem began work in April 2024 on options to remove the prepayment meter price premium for good, after a temporary ban on charging prepayment customers more took effect in July 2023.
Ofgem confirms technical changes to price cap wholesale model taking effect from April 2024
Ofgem has confirmed technical changes to the wholesale cost allowance model used to set the energy price cap, taking effect from April 2024, and decided against adjusting the cap for 2022 to 2023 wholesale costs.
Ofgem to consult on operating cost allowances in spring 2024
Ofgem expects to consult in spring 2024 on changes to operating cost allowances, following a call for input and its analysis of requests for information.
Ofgem planned formal consultation on Consumer Consent for Spring 2024
Ofgem has said it will publish a consultation in spring 2024 setting out proposed decisions on how energy consumers give, manage and revoke consent to share their data.
Ofgem price cap from April 2024 puts poorly insulated homes around £340 a year worse off on gas bills
Analysis from the Energy and Climate Intelligence Unit finds that under Ofgem's April 2024 price cap, homes rated EPC band F pay around £340 a year more for gas than band C homes.
Prepayment meter standing charges levelled with Direct Debit under the price cap
From 1 April 2024 prepayment meter standing charges fall to the level paid by direct debit customers under Ofgem's price cap, ending the long-standing prepayment premium.
Recast EU Energy Performance of Buildings Directive adopted
The recast EU Energy Performance of Buildings Directive was adopted in April 2024, setting renovation and zero-emission building goals that the Scottish Government says it aims to align with where possible.
New redeveloped MCS Scheme comes into effect
The redeveloped MCS Scheme took effect on 1 April 2024, resetting the consumer protections that sit behind certified small-scale renewable installations in UK homes.
REMA update includes zonal pricing as an option for further consideration
Ofgem's discussion paper on the future of the default tariff price cap sets out options for reform, including zonal wholesale pricing, and asks for responses by 10 May 2024.
Supplier switches must complete within five working days with £30 compensation
Ofgem rules in force from 1 April 2024 require energy suppliers to complete a customer's switch within five working days, with £30 compensation payable if the deadline is missed.
Temporary debt-related costs allowance introduced in the price cap
Ofgem introduced a temporary allowance in the price cap from April 2024 letting suppliers recover debt-related costs incurred between April 2022 and March 2024 above the permanent allowances.
TrustMark notifies DESNZ of suspected fraud under ECO schemes
The National Audit Office reports that TrustMark told DESNZ in April 2024 that some retrofit businesses were suspected of overclaiming for work carried out under the Energy Company Obligation.
Updated WHQS 2023 standard published
The Welsh Government has published an updated Welsh Housing Quality Standard, WHQS 2023, adding guidance on carbon emissions across housing portfolios and on whole stock assessments and the Target Energy Pathway.
- March 2024
Energy price cap levels updated for 1 April to 30 June 2024 with standing charge levelisation introduced
Ofgem has set the default tariff cap for 1 April to 30 June 2024 at £1,690 for a typical Direct Debit household, down £238, and has levelled prepayment standing charges with Direct Debit.
ECIU analysis finds Government policy pushing UK backwards on energy security
A year after the Government's Powering Up Britain strategy, the Energy and Climate Intelligence Unit says recent policy changes have increased the UK's reliance on imported gas and oil.
Scottish Government publishes analysis of phase 3 PDR consultation responses
The Scottish Government has published its analysis of 467 responses to a consultation on extending permitted development rights for renewable energy equipment, with most proposals drawing majority support.
Statutory instrument on solar Permitted Development Rights laid before Scottish parliament
The Scottish Government laid a statutory instrument before parliament on 28 March 2024 to simplify permitted development rules for solar, with changes expected to take effect on 24 May.
Consultation on the Home Energy Model: Future Homes Standard Assessment closed
The National Insulation Association has published its response to the Home Energy Model consultation, which closed on 27 March 2024 and will set the assessment method for the Future Homes Standard.
Solar Energy UK submits response to Future Homes and Buildings Standards 2023 consultation
Solar Energy UK has told the Government it backs an amended Option 1 with mandated solar in the Future Homes and Buildings Standards, opposes Option 2, and has flagged a bug in the Home Energy Model.
Ofgem publishes discussion paper on the future of domestic price protection
Ofgem has opened a discussion on whether the default tariff price cap needs reform, seeking views by 10 May 2024 on how household price protection should work as the retail market changes.
Consultation launched on postponing Clean Heat Market Mechanism to 1 April 2025
The Government has opened a consultation on postponing the Clean Heat Market Mechanism to 1 April 2025, while confirming changes to Boiler Upgrade Scheme eligibility rules.
DESNZ announces delay of Clean Heat Market Mechanism and changes to Boiler Upgrade Scheme
DESNZ announced on 14 March 2024 that the Clean Heat Market Mechanism would be delayed to 1 April 2025 and that the Boiler Upgrade Scheme would drop its insulation requirement and accept biomass boilers with integrated cooking functions.
DESNZ announces significant changes to the Boiler Upgrade Scheme
The Department for Energy Security and Net Zero has announced changes to the Boiler Upgrade Scheme, including relaxed insulation rules, new biomass eligibility and tighter commissioning deadlines, in force from 8 May 2024.
DESNZ publishes Boiler Upgrade Scheme consultation outcome
DESNZ has set out the outcome of its Boiler Upgrade Scheme consultation, keeping the EPC requirement but dropping the rule that loft and cavity wall insulation recommendations must be resolved first.
Government announces changes to the Boiler Upgrade Scheme and Clean Heat Market Mechanism
Claire Coutinho has announced changes to the Boiler Upgrade Scheme, including new eligibility for biomass boilers with integrated cooking functions and a higher capacity limit for shared ground loops.
Nesta responds to Boiler Upgrade Scheme regulations consultation
Nesta has told a government consultation that the Boiler Upgrade Scheme should keep its EPC requirement but drop the rule barring homes with outstanding loft or cavity wall insulation recommendations.
Secretary of State correspondence published on consultation responses
Correspondence dated 14 March 2024 from the Secretary of State covers the Boiler Upgrade Scheme consultation response, an addendum to the Clean Heat Market Mechanism response, and the Improving Boiler Standards and Efficiency response.
NIA responds to Scottish Government Heat in Buildings Bill consultation
The National Insulation Association has told the Scottish Government it supports its Heat in Buildings Bill proposals but wants solid wall insulation added to the list of measures used to meet minimum energy efficiency standards.
Publication of the second REMA consultation
The second Review of Electricity Market Arrangements consultation, published on 12 March 2024, asks for views on options to cut thermal constraint costs, which made up 40 per cent of balancing costs in 2023/24.
SSEN announces completion of VFES vulnerability innovation project
SSEN Distribution has completed the VFES innovation project, funded by Ofgem's Network Innovation Allowance, which predicts where and when communities are most vulnerable to power cuts and to missing out on low-carbon technology.
Heat in Buildings Bill consultation closes
The Scottish Government's consultation on proposals for a Heat in Buildings Bill closed on 8 March 2024 after receiving over 1,600 responses, and the Bill has since been redrafted.
Social Housing Net Zero Standard consultation closed
The Scottish Government's consultation on a new Social Housing Net Zero Standard closed on 8 March 2024, with responses now under independent analysis ahead of a report.
Which? publishes response to Scottish Government consultation on Heat In Buildings Bill
Which? has responded to the Scottish Government's consultation on the Heat in Buildings Bill, backing long term targets and installer certification while warning that support must match the scale of the change.
Future Homes and Buildings Standards consultation closes
The government consultation on the Future Homes and Buildings Standards closed on 6 March 2024, setting the rules for energy efficiency and heating in new homes in England.
Spring Budget 2024 delivered by Chancellor Jeremy Hunt
Jeremy Hunt's Spring Budget on 6 March 2024 cut employee National Insurance by 2p, extended the 5p fuel duty cut and launched a Public Sector Productivity Programme.
Covid-19 cap amendment to end in March 2024
Ofgem's temporary amendment to the energy price cap, which allowed suppliers to recover additional costs incurred during the Covid-19 pandemic, runs until March 2024, Energy UK has said.
Energy price guarantee backstop due to end
The energy price guarantee stays as a backstop until the end of March 2024, after which the Department for Energy Security and Net Zero will consult on arrangements for vulnerable consumers.
Government delays Clean Heat Market Mechanism to April 2025
The government has delayed the Clean Heat Market Mechanism, the scheme that would have fined boiler makers for missing heat pump sales targets, to a proposed April 2025 start.
Market Stabilisation Charge extension period ends
Ofgem has allowed the Market Stabilisation Charge to expire at the end of its extension period in March 2024, confirming no adjustment to the price cap for wholesale costs incurred between October 2022 and September 2023.
Ofgem publishes Affordability and debt call for input
Ofgem has opened a call for input on affordability and debt in the domestic retail market, with responses due in May 2024, as household energy debt reaches record levels.
Ofgem publishes Future of domestic price protection discussion paper
Ofgem has published a discussion paper on the future of domestic price protection, asking whether the default tariff price cap should be reformed as the retail energy market changes.
Order made extending Scottish permitted development rights for renewables, windows and electricity network infrastructure
The Town and Country Planning (General Permitted Development) (Scotland) Amendment Order 2024 extends permitted development rights for domestic and non-domestic renewables, window replacement and electricity network infrastructure.
UK regulators publish joint debt collection statement
The FCA, Ofgem, Ofwat and Ofcom have published a joint debt collection statement through the UK Regulators' Network, setting four expected outcomes for how utilities treat customers in debt.
New repairing standard elements commence
New elements of Scotland's repairing standard covering safe kitchens, fixed heating, safe access to common parts, secure common doors, residual current devices and other fuels took effect for private rented homes on 1 March 2024.
Spring 2024 Budget extends Windfall Tax and Household Support Fund but ends other support
The Spring 2024 Budget extended the Windfall Tax and the Household Support Fund for limited periods, but ended other bill support on 31 March and announced no new energy efficiency funding.
- February 2024
Citizens Advice responds to DESNZ consultation on heat network zoning
Citizens Advice has told the government it supports heat network zoning but wants consumer protection built into the policy, warning that leaving a heat network is extremely difficult once a building is connected.
£28 bad debt cost added to annual bills for 12 months
Ofgem has added £28 to annual energy bills for 12 months within the April price cap to help suppliers recover bad debt costs, as the cap falls to £1,690.
Ofgem announces April-June 2024 price cap
Ofgem has set the April to June 2024 price cap, which the Resolution Foundation says will produce the second biggest percentage fall in consumer energy prices since the cap began in 2019.
Ofgem announces price cap level for 1 April to 30 June 2024
Ofgem has set the energy price cap for 1 April to 30 June 2024 at a typical dual-fuel annual bill of £1,690, a 12 per cent fall, with prepayment meters becoming the cheapest way to pay.
Ofgem decides not to adjust energy price cap for additional wholesale costs
Ofgem has decided not to adjust the energy price cap for differences between wholesale costs and allowances over October 2022 to September 2023, and will make two small technical changes to its wholesale allowance model.
Government responds in written statement to CMA consumer protection review
The Government has accepted that retrofit consumers face difficulties and a confusing standards landscape, in a written statement responding to the competition watchdog's green heating and insulation review.
Welsh Government publishes response to Ofgem call for input on standing charges
The Welsh Government has told Ofgem that standing charges should be abolished, that North Wales pays the highest in Great Britain, and that a social tariff is overdue.
YouGov poll released showing 79% of MPs back mandatory solar panels for new-build homes
A YouGov poll of 107 MPs, commissioned by the MCS Foundation, found 79 per cent support making solar panels mandatory on all new-build homes from 2025, with 61 per cent backing mandatory battery storage.
Consultation on changes to permitted development rights opened
The government consulted on changes to permitted development rights for electric vehicle charge points and air source heat pumps between 13 February and 9 April 2024, drawing 1,409 responses.
Permitted development rights consultation opens
The government has opened a consultation on changes to permitted development rights in England, covering larger home extensions, building upwards, demolition and rebuild, electric vehicle charge points and air source heat pumps.
MCS opens four-week consultation on changes to MIS 3005-D heat pump design standard
MCS has opened a four-week consultation on changes to its heat pump design standard, proposing a definition of hybrid systems, removal of the 100% heat loss sizing rule and a minimum 55% peak power contribution.
SSEN submits £10m Storm Arwen funding application to Ofgem
SSEN Distribution has asked Ofgem for £10m of dedicated funding for five projects to improve storm response and network resilience, following the regulator's review of the response to Storm Arwen.
ECIU publishes estimate of the cost of not zero in 2023
The Energy and Climate Intelligence Unit estimates that missing net zero technologies and higher food bills cost UK households and government £73bn over 2022 and 2023, and at least £87bn since the early 2010s.
Addendum to NISEP 2023/25 Framework Document published
The Utility Regulator published a February 2024 addendum to the NISEP 2023/25 Framework Document, changing income eligibility, heat pump monitoring, governance and customer protections.
Government applies prepayment meter discount
The government has applied a discount on prepayment meters since February 2024 so that customers are not financially penalised for being moved onto one.
Government introduces voluntary principles for replacing smart meter displays
The Department for Energy Security and Net Zero introduced voluntary principles in February 2024 to help households obtain a replacement smart meter display once the 12-month supplier obligation has ended.
Ofgem allows involuntary prepayment meter installations to resume
Ofgem has confirmed that some energy suppliers may resume installing prepayment meters without household consent in early 2024, ending a pause on the practice.
Ofgem approves R0147 and confirms standing charge levelisation from 1 April 2024
Ofgem has confirmed that standing charges for prepayment meter and direct debit customers under the price cap will be levelled from 1 April 2024, accepting change proposal R0147.
Ofgem decided to extend the BAT for a further year
Ofgem decided in February 2024 to extend the ban on acquisition-only tariffs for a further year, citing residual risk in removing it and the Market Stabilisation Charge at the same time.
Ofgem introduced the Float temporary debt allowance
Ofgem has opened a consultation on whether the temporary debt allowance it added to the energy price cap in February 2024, known as the Float, was set at the right level.
Ofgem levelisation decision opens potential phase 2 on debt-related costs
Ofgem has said it could consult on levelling debt-related costs between Standard Credit and Direct Debit customers, as part of a wider review of price cap operating cost allowances.
Ofgem lowers price cap by around 12% for domestic energy bills
Ofgem has lowered its price cap for domestic energy bills by around 12% from April 2024, but gas and electricity costs remain 60% higher than in 2021, according to the End Fuel Poverty Coalition.
Ofgem sets out contingency proposals for price cap methodology
Ofgem has set out more detailed proposals for amending the price cap methodology if legislation on an energy intensive industry exemption is not in place by 1 April 2024.
- January 2024
Council of the European Union adopts revised F-gas regulation
The Council of the European Union adopted a revised F-gas regulation on 29 January 2024, phasing down fluorinated gases used in heat pumps, air conditioners, fridges and some medicines.
MCS 020 consultation closes with 55 responses
MCS has published its response to a consultation on the MCS 020 sound standard for air source heat pumps, which closed on 26 January 2024 with 55 responses.
Warm This Winter releases third Tariff Watch report on standing charges
Warm This Winter's third Tariff Watch report identifies 14 obscure charges inside the Ofgem price cap that it says have pushed electricity standing charges up 119 per cent since winter 2020/21.
NEA publishes response to additional debt-related costs allowance policy consultation
National Energy Action has published its response to the consultation on an additional debt-related costs allowance, saying record market debt and arrears of £2.6bn show households are falling behind on energy costs.
NEA publishes response to prepayment meter standing charges consultation
National Energy Action has published its response to the statutory consultation on prepayment meter standing charges and other debt costs, restating its long-standing call to remove payment premiums.
Publication of Air Source Heat Pump Noise & Permitted Development Rights in Wales reports (phase 1 & 2)
The Welsh Government has published two reports on air source heat pump noise and permitted development rights, examining whether the current three-metre boundary rule should change.
Consumer Scotland responds to Ofgem's Standing Charges Call for Input
Consumer Scotland has told Ofgem that moving standing charges onto unit rates in isolation would hit Scottish, disabled and electric heating households hardest, and that the regulator's own modelling does not justify the change.
Eight suppliers cleared to restart involuntary prepayment meter installations
Eight energy suppliers met Ofgem's criteria to restart involuntary prepayment meter installations from January 2024, after the practice was suspended in February 2023.
Energy National Policy Statements came into effect
The energy National Policy Statements were designated and came into effect in January 2024, with solar infrastructure treated as a Critical National Priority for nationally significant low carbon infrastructure.
New UK-EU Rules of Origin scheduled to begin
The Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders has warned that tougher UK-EU Rules of Origin begin on 1 January 2024, with electric vehicles traded both ways facing possible tariffs.
First suppliers restart involuntary PPM activity
Ofgem has confirmed that the first energy suppliers restarted involuntary prepayment meter installations in January 2024, after independent audits verified they met strengthened rules introduced in November 2023.
UK Government to introduce zero-emission vehicle mandate
The UK Government has committed to a zero-emission vehicle mandate from 1 January 2024, extended to Northern Ireland by ministerial agreement, setting annual zero-emission sales targets for manufacturers.
Government withdrawal notice issued for UPP e-bike battery
A Government withdrawal notice issued in January 2024 told Amazon, eBay and Alibaba that UPP e-bike batteries U004 and U004-1 pose a serious risk of fire, and listings have since been found on Facebook Marketplace.
Ofgem energy price cap to rise by 5% from January 2024
Ofgem's energy price cap rises 5% from 1 January 2024, taking a typical household bill from £1,834 to £1,928 a year, with prepayment and cash or cheque customers paying more.
Ofgem price cap from January 2024 puts EPC band F gas bills £415 above band C
Analysis by the Energy and Climate Intelligence Unit finds gas bills in EPC band F homes will average £415 a year more than band C homes under Ofgem's price cap from January 2024.
Ofgem price cap rises in January 2024
A quarterly Tariff Watch report from the Warm This Winter coalition says 14 obscure charges, passed through standing charges, are keeping electricity bills at record levels after January's price cap rise.
Price cap expected to rise around 1% in January 2024
Cornwall Insight expects the Ofgem price cap to rise by around 1% in January 2024 after European gas prices rose again, taking a typical annual bill to about £1,932.
Zero emission vehicle mandate becomes law
The Zero Emission Vehicle mandate became law in January 2024, setting manufacturers annual quotas for zero emission cars and vans on the pathway to 2035.
Zero Emission Vehicle Mandate expected to come into force
The Zero Emission Vehicle Mandate is expected to come into force in January 2024, setting a minimum quota for new battery electric vehicle registrations for every brand.
ZEV mandate targets scheduled to begin
From 1 January 2024, the zero emission vehicle mandate requires an increasing share of each manufacturer's annual new car and van sales in the UK to be zero emission, rising to 100% in 2035.