We welcome the continuing debate in the Scottish Parliament to secure an ambitious and successful Energy Efficient Scotland Programme. This briefing sets out our response to the Minister’s statement on Energy Efficient Scotland, particularly on the issues of the Long Term Domestic Standard and future legislation.
The Scottish Government has taken some positive steps on regulation and they’ve acknowledged the need to consider an accelerated long-term domestic standard. A ‘suite of legislation’ is promised, but as yet there are no details on what the legislation will include. Thus, there are some good commitments, but it is concerning that we seem to be in a preparatory phase in many areas – despite the fact that the National Infrastructure Priority was established in 2015.
We will work closely with the parliament and stakeholders – particularly with industry and delivery agents – to make the case for a long-term standard of EPC band C – where feasible and appropriate – in the forthcoming consultation.
Meanwhile, it is essential that we avoid further delay and make use of the Fuel Poverty Bill and Climate Change Bill to put in place the necessary statutory framework for Energy Efficient Scotland. The twin imperatives of climate change and fuel poverty demand action now.
