The innovation foundation Nesta has responded to the Energy Security and Net Zero Committee’s report published today, ‘Retrofitting homes for net zero’. The report urges the Government to introduce measures that encourage the installation of new low carbon heating systems, including by reducing the proportion of energy policy costs levied on electricity bills.

Madeleine Gabriel, director of sustainable future at Nesta, said: “It makes little sense that people who want to swap their fossil fuel heating systems for low carbon alternatives are still being held back by unnecessarily high electricity prices and policy indecision.

“The Committee is right to highlight the urgency of the project to get decarbonising UK homes back on track, starting with reducing energy policy costs levied on electricity bills. The status quo is simply unjustifiable as it artificially discourages heat pump sales and penalises some of the poorest households on direct electric heating. We are clear and so is the Committee - this needs to change. It is crucial that in doing so the worst-off are protected from bill rises and supported to make the most of the changes by electrifying their homes.”

Madeleine Gabriel gave evidence as a witness to the Committee’s inquiry and Nesta also supplied the Committee with written evidence based on its research.

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Notes to editors

1. For more information or to speak to one of the experts involved, please contact Kieran Lowe, Media Manager, on 020 7438 2576 or [email protected]. Spokespeople are available for broadcast interviews.

About Nesta

Nesta is an independent think tank focused on solving society’s biggest challenges.

Nesta conducts experiments with public and private organisations, builds and invests in early-stage ventures, and shapes policy.

Our three missions are to give every child a fair start, help people live healthy lives, and create a sustainable future where the economy works for both people and the planet.

For over 20 years, Nesta has worked to support, encourage and inspire innovation. Harnessing the rigour of science and the creativity of design, we design, test and scale solutions to change millions of lives for the better. Find out more at nesta.org.uk