Friday 22 September 2017

UK’s carbon targets ‘within reach with right policies’

The UK's carbon emission reduction targets are within reach if the right policies are implemented.

That's according to the Energy and Utilities Alliance (EUA), which has submitted its recommendations for the forthcoming Autumn Budget to the Chancellor.

It suggests the government needs to address the fuel poverty faced by more than 2.5 million houses in England, improve domestic and industrial energy efficiency and invest in infrastructure for natural gas buses and trucks.

The EUA says gas vehicles would provide a viable alternative to diesel power and suggests the government needs to look wider than only electric vehicles to decarbonise the transport sector.

It recommends varying tax bands should be introduced based on technology or emission volumes, serving to encourage the take up of clean vehicles.

The group also believes paying the winter fuel allowance in the summer would allow households to benefit from cheaper prices and boiler maintenance when demand is lower, preparing them for the colder months to follow.

Mike Foster, Chief Executive of the EUA, said: "So far, there has been a distinct lack of coherent environmental and energy strategy from this government and the Autumn Budget provides them with an opportunity to present a clear vision as to how we will meet the fifth carbon budget and reduce fuel poverty in the UK."