Age UK’s response to DESNZ's Warm Homes Plan

Age UK’s response to DESNZ's Warm Homes Plan, alongside decisions on energy efficiency standards in the rental sector, the future homes standard, and the Government’s fuel poverty strategy.

“We welcome the Government’s plan to improve the condition of homes and tackle fuel poverty. The real test will be whether these plans make a tangible difference for older people.

“Older people tell us time and again that the cost of energy is one of their biggest concerns and find it persistently unaffordable. The combined pressure of high energy bills and the poor condition of homes have created difficult trade-offs for some people to stay warm. Too many older people are living in cold homes, which not only puts their health at risk but adds further pressure to already stretched health services.

“Since the Chancellor announced that the Energy Company Obligation scheme would not continue beyond April, detail has been needed on what steps the government will take to tackle fuel poverty. While the Warm Homes Plan being announced today offers some clarity, it also shows that less funding will be available for lifting households out of fuel poverty than if the ECO scheme were to have continued. Although the ECO scheme was shown to be flawed and the money could be better spent, the drop in funding for people on the lowest incomes will restrict the energy efficiency improvements that can be delivered.  

“Improving the condition and energy efficiency of homes is much needed. As older people consider ageing in their homes, 41% say they are concerned about its condition. Evidence from our Warm Homes programme suggests that many older people will need help accessing loans and grant schemes, undertaking work and particularly for those in the rented sector, ensuring that they see the real benefit of these changes. We look forward to working with the Warm Homes Agency and others to make sure the right support is in place and would like to see greater funding for proper and effective enforcement of standards.

“The Government must ensure support is targeted at those most in need, is easy to access, and leads to genuine reductions in energy costs. We will be watching closely to see how these initiatives improve life for older people."