The National Home Decarbonisation Group (NHDG) welcomes early signals from newly appointed Prime Minister Andy Burnham that good quality housing, living standards and devolution will play a central role in the new administration’s priorities.
The Prime Minister’s comments on the importance of good homes are encouraging for the housing and retrofit sectors and reflects the growing recognition that the quality of housing is intrinsically linked to health, wellbeing, economic opportunity and the cost of living.
The new government’s commitment to devolution is also welcome. As an organisation whose members work daily with local and combined authorities across the UK, the NHDG and its members understand the vital role local and regional leaders can play in delivering housing improvements and supporting the transition to warmer, more energy-efficient homes. Done correctly, devolution can empower local communities and improve outcomes for residents.
The NHDG also welcomes the appointment of Miatta Fahnbulleh as Secretary of State for Energy Security and Net Zero. The NHDG looks forward to working with her and the wider Government to deliver practical solutions that improve homes, reduce fuel poverty and support the UK’s decarbonisation objectives.
The NHDG is encouraged by the Government’s rapid decision to reduce VAT on household electricity bills. This is a positive step in helping households manage energy costs.
Longer term action will also be needed to tackle the root causes of high energy bills and improve the energy performance of the UK’s housing stock. Last week, the NHDG joined organisations from across the energy efficiency, housing and clean heat sectors in calling for clarity on the future of 0% VAT on energy saving materials. Maintaining incentives that support investment in home energy improvements will be vital if the Government is to reduce energy demand, lower bills and accelerate progress towards net zero.
Derek Horrocks, chairperson of the National Home Decarbonisation Group (NHDG), said:
“The new Prime Minister’s message that you cannot have a good life without a good home is one the retrofit sector has been converting into reality for years, and it is genuinely encouraging to see it placed at the heart of the new Prime Minister’s agenda.
“As a former health secretary, he understands better than most that the condition of our homes shapes the nation’s health, and that warm, safe and efficient housing eases pressure on the NHS while improving everyday life. That framing matters, because it treats housing not as a standalone policy area but as the foundation for so much else.”