Govt called on to prioritise energy demand

The 2014 Party Conferences revealed strong party political differences on energy and the role of intervention in the sector, and as May’s general election draws near the trade association is keen to stress how critical 2015 will be for the industry.

Whoever wins power will shape energy policy going forward, much of which is up for review, and the SEAhas launched a series of free events aimed at informing the debate.

The Election Watch events will bring together media, industry, political stakeholders, and thought leaders to discuss the big issues facing the sector, ask what 2015 has in store, and establish what the industry still wants to hear from Government.

Much of the current public discourse around sustainable energy tends to focus on the “trilemma” of “going green” versus affordability or energy security, with little emphasis on demand management.

The Government’s own data shows that most demand-side measures are cheaper options for the country than large-scale, infrastructure-based, supply-side options.

And yet the demand-side still struggles to have its voice heard, or for policy to follow this economic logic.

With this in mind, the SEAis seeking to refocus the discussion, and is calling for integrated energy efficiency with low carbon and renewable energy production in buildings to becoming a significantly higher priority in all areas of Government that touch on energy policy.

In doing so, the association argues, the UK will become more industrially competitive, moving the country towards a more cost-effective, decarbonised energy system, and allowing consumers to enjoy more affordable bills.

The chief executive of the SEA, Dave Sowden, said: “As we head towards the election, the energy industry faces uncertainty. We need to protect the sector from further job losses and help ensure continued investment.

“It is critical that a new political consensus emerges for the demand side of energy policy.

“Having a stable policy framework and strong political commitments from the main parties leading to a comprehensive Energy in Buildings Strategy is crucial to developing a clean, affordable and secure energy future for the businesses and people of Britain.”