Question to the Department for Energy Security & Net Zero:

To ask the Secretary of State for Energy Security and Net Zero, what steps his Department is taking to support greater public awareness around the impacts of climate change.

Answered by Katie White - Minister of State (Department for Energy Security and Net Zero)

We know people are concerned about climate change and a majority support the Government taking action to tackle this.

Our Energising Britain plan sets out how we will work to ensure people have the facts and understand the scale, pace of change and benefits of climate and nature action as well as the opportunities for their local communities, including through policies that are responsive to people’s needs and views.

The first annual Energising Britain event was held on 6 July at five locations across England, celebrating, supporting and learning from the vital climate and nature action already taking place across the country.

On 13 July, the Government delivered its second annual statement on the state of climate and nature to provide Parliament and the public with an honest assessment of the challenges we face and the progress being made in response.

Question to the Department for Energy Security & Net Zero:

To ask the Secretary of State for Energy Security and Net Zero, if she will extend energy energy support for manufacturers to Northern Ireland.

Answered by Blair McDougall - Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State (Department for Business, Innovation, Science and Trade) (Jointly with the Department for Energy Security and Net Zero)

Every business in the country has paid the price of Britain’s dependence on foreign fossil fuel markets. The government is closely monitoring the impact of energy prices on businesses following the instability in the Middle East. The Chancellor confirmed in May that any support would be targeted at those businesses most exposed.

We are taking immediate action on high electricity prices through the Business and Industrial Competitiveness Scheme. The Northern Ireland Executive will receive funding to deliver an equivalent programme to BICS, subject to business case development.

We are continuing to develop policies to bring down electricity costs relative to gas for the non-domestic sector and intend to consult on options to reduce costs and make low-carbon heat the economically rational choice. Our intention is for any future support scheme to be available UK-wide, creating a common framework for incentivising electrification and decarbonisation.

Question to the Department for Energy Security & Net Zero:

To ask the Secretary of State for Energy Security and Net Zero, if he will meet with me to discuss sub-sea cement applications with regard to offshore wind within Scottish supply chains.

Answered by Michael Shanks - Minister of State (Department for Energy Security and Net Zero)

I would be happy to consider a request to meet. Invitations should be submitted through the usual channels, either by post or by email, and will be considered in the normal way.

Question to the Department for Energy Security & Net Zero:

To ask the Secretary of State for Energy Security and Net Zero, with reference to Norfolk Vanguard East & West, whether his department has received RWE's supply chain plans.

Answered by Michael Shanks - Minister of State (Department for Energy Security and Net Zero)

The Clean Industry Bonus (CIB) replaced Supply Chain Plans for offshore wind projects from Allocation Round 7 of the Contracts for Difference (CfD) scheme. Applicants are required to obtain a CIB statement, demonstrating investment in shorter and more sustainable supply chains, before entering the CfD auction. Both Norfolk Vanguard East and Norfolk Vanguard West obtained such statements and were awarded Contracts for Difference in Allocation Round 7. Officials engage regularly with RWE on supply chain delivery for both projects.

Question to the Department for Energy Security & Net Zero:

To ask the Secretary of State for Energy Security and Net Zero, what steps she is taking to support network operators to adopt a predictive, data-led and technology-enabled energy network.

Answered by Michael Shanks - Minister of State (Department for Energy Security and Net Zero)

In March 2026, government and Ofgem published the Energy Digitalisation Framework to provide strategic direction for energy sector digitalisation. The Framework introduced a data domain model to improve data quality and standardisation across key areas, including system and network operation.

It also established the concept of a Digitalisation Coordination Function to support common standards, architectural coherence and cross-sector alignment. The Department plans to consult on the Function’s design later this year.

Government are taking steps to improve visibility of low carbon technology assets on the distribution network, including through an industry group and new primary legislation when parliamentary time allows.

Question to the Department for Energy Security & Net Zero:

To ask the Secretary of State for Energy Security and Net Zero, what recent discussions her Department has had with counterparts in His Majesty's Treasury on the Hydrogen Strategy update.

Answered by Martin McCluskey - Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State (Department for Energy Security and Net Zero)

The Department for Energy Security and Net Zero have engaged with His Majesty’s Treasury throughout development of the Hydrogen Strategy. The renewed strategy will set out Government’s vision and objectives for hydrogen, and how we intend to work with industry to continue to transform ambition into action.

We plan to publish the Hydrogen Strategy, alongside a package of other hydrogen policy documents, as soon as possible this year.

Question to the Department for Energy Security & Net Zero:

To ask the Secretary of State for Energy Security and Net Zero, what steps her Department is taking to strengthen incentives for long‑term investment in network resilience in rural and storm‑impacted areas.

Answered by Michael Shanks - Minister of State (Department for Energy Security and Net Zero)

Maintaining the resilience of the energy system is one of Government’s top priorities. We work with industry and Ofgem to ensure that sufficient investment is made into rural power networks, but also that support is provided when power cuts do occur.

The independent regulator, Ofgem, regulates Distribution Network Operators through a price control process. This includes incentives to reduce the frequency and duration of power interruptions, no matter the cause, and to invest in and maintain infrastructure to guarantee minimum standards of service.

Following the Storm Arwen Review, operators have made significant improvements to system resilience during severe weather events.

Question to the Department for Energy Security & Net Zero:

To ask the Secretary of State for Energy Security and Net Zero, whether the forthcoming Energy Resilience Strategy will reinforce the need for a more predictive, data‑led and technology‑enabled energy network.

Answered by Michael Shanks - Minister of State (Department for Energy Security and Net Zero)

The upcoming Energy Resilience Strategy will seize the once in a generation opportunity presented by the clean energy transition to build a stronger, more resilient energy system.

It would be inappropriate to pre-empt the content of the Strategy at this time, however I can confirm the Strategy will set out Government's strategic priorities for a secure and resilient system, now and in the future and our approach to its delivery, working with industry, the system operator, the regulator and wider society.

Question to the Department for Energy Security & Net Zero:

To ask the Secretary of State for Energy Security and Net Zero, what the percentage of desks provided for staff is as a proportion of the total number of assigned staff in her Department's London headquarters.

Answered by Michael Shanks - Minister of State (Department for Energy Security and Net Zero)

On 1 September 2026, the percentage of desks provided for staff as a proportion of the total number of staff assigned to work in 55 Whitehall and 3-8 Whitehall Place in London, was 38.8%.

The calculation has not been adjusted to take into account predictions around planned and unplanned absences.

Question to the Department for Energy Security & Net Zero:

To ask the Secretary of State for Energy Security and Net Zero, whether she met with representatives of the UK oil and gas sector during the summer recess.

Answered by Michael Shanks - Minister of State (Department for Energy Security and Net Zero)

Details of Ministers' and Permanent Secretaries' meetings with external individuals and organisations are published quarterly on GOV.UK.

Question to the Department for Energy Security & Net Zero:

To ask the Secretary of State for Energy Security and Net Zero, whether he is taking steps to protect heating oil customers from market volatility and price rises through the creation of a regulatory regime for heating oil suppliers.

Answered by Polly Billington - Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State (Department for Energy Security and Net Zero)

Government is determined to fight the corner of heating oil customers. We are concerned about the issues in this sector and welcome the Competition and Markets Authority’s (CMA) comprehensive examination of the heating oil industry, published on 15 July 2026.

We are working closely with the CMA to consider their proposals to increase consumer protections in detail. This will include considering how regulation can make the market function more effectively and protect consumers.

Question to the Department for Energy Security & Net Zero:

To ask the Secretary of State for Energy Security and Net Zero, whether the proposed Energy Independence Bill will amend the deterrence regime to help prevent environmental damage from oil and gas operations.

Answered by Michael Shanks - Minister of State (Department for Energy Security and Net Zero)

The Government is committed to ensuring that the offshore environmental regulatory regime provides an effective deterrent against environmental damage and keeps the regime under review.

The proposed Energy Independence Bill does not include provisions to amend the deterrence regime. Decisions on whether to make changes to the regime through future legislation have not yet been taken.

Question to the Department for Energy Security & Net Zero:

To ask the Secretary of State for Energy Security and Net Zero, pursuant to the answer of 14 July 2026 to question 16796, what are the mandatory reporting thresholds.

Answered by Michael Shanks - Minister of State (Department for Energy Security and Net Zero)

Under Regulation 11 of the Network and Information Systems Regulations 2018, an Operator of Essential Services (OES) must notify the competent authority for their subsector about any incident which has a significant impact on the continuity of the essential service it provides. To determine the significance of an incident’s impact, an OES must take account of the number of users affected by the disruption; the duration; and the geographical area affected. The Regulations do not prescribe numerical reporting thresholds; instead competent authorities may publish sector-specific guidance to assist OES in determining whether an incident is reportable.

Question to the Department for Energy Security & Net Zero:

To ask the Secretary of State for Energy Security and Net Zero, what assessment he has made of the potential merits of removing the existing cap on variable monetary penalties for offshore oil spills, including to align with the equivalent regulations for onshore oil spills.

Answered by Michael Shanks - Minister of State (Department for Energy Security and Net Zero)

The Government keeps the effectiveness of the offshore environmental enforcement regime under review. Removing the cap on variable monetary penalties for offshore oil spills could provide greater flexibility in applying sanctions in the most serious cases. Any penalty must remain proportionate to the circumstances of the case. No decision has been taken to remove the current cap.

Question to the Department for Energy Security & Net Zero:

To ask the Secretary of State for Energy Security and Net Zero, with reference to the written statement of 30 June 2026, HCWS165, on Defence funding update, what reductions in programme spending will be made to (a) deliver further savings and (b) reduce departmental capital budgets by one per cent.

Answered by Michael Shanks - Minister of State (Department for Energy Security and Net Zero)

The savings are a small part of DESNZ's overall budget, which saw a significant uplift at Spending Review.

More details will be shared in due course

Question to the Department for Energy Security & Net Zero:

To ask the Secretary of State for Energy Security and Net Zero, what proportion of UK nuclear power is (a) owned and (b) financed by Chinese firms.

Answered by Michael Shanks - Minister of State (Department for Energy Security and Net Zero)

No UK nuclear power currently being generated is owned or financed by Chinese firms. The UK's operating nuclear power stations are owned and operated by EDF.

China General Nuclear (CGN) retains a minority shareholding in Hinkley Point C, which is under construction and not yet generating electricity. As of the end of July 2026 CGN's shareholding was 22.6%.

Question to the Department for Energy Security & Net Zero:

To ask the Secretary of State for Energy Security and Net Zero, what criteria she will use when considering requests by Drax Power Station to supply electricity directly to data centres under future support arrangements.

Answered by Michael Shanks - Minister of State (Department for Energy Security and Net Zero)

The low-carbon dispatchable Contract for Difference (LCD CfD) signed with Drax Power Station for the period 2027-31 contains a provision for the generator to request the ability to provide up to 500MW of power to a data centre via a private wire.

The Government, in conjunction with the Low Carbon Contracts Company as the CfD counterparty, will assess any such request against criteria that take account of energy security, affordability and sustainability, to ensure that any decision is in the interests of the consumer.

All power generated by Drax during this period – whether for the grid or a data centre – must use fuel which complies with the strengthened sustainability criteria set out in the LCD CfD.

Question to the Department for Energy Security & Net Zero:

To ask the Secretary of State for Energy Security and Net Zero, whether information arising from the Drax whistleblower case has informed the development of future biomass sustainability monitoring and reporting requirements.

Answered by Michael Shanks - Minister of State (Department for Energy Security and Net Zero)

The Government keeps arrangements for assuring compliance with biomass sustainability requirements under review and is committed to a process of continuous improvement in biomass sustainability standards, compliance, and verification.

This includes considering lessons from Ofgem’s extensive 2024 investigation into Drax’s sustainability reporting and the recently completed global audit of Drax’s biomass supply chain which Ofgem required Drax to conduct and fund. Reporting and verification arrangements have been strengthened under the new contract with Drax from 2027-31, including enhanced audit rights for the Low Carbon Contracts Company.

These lessons will also inform the forthcoming Common Biomass Sustainability Framework, which will strengthen sustainability criteria and ensure greater consistency across sectors in the longer term.

Question to the Department for Energy Security & Net Zero:

To ask the Secretary of State for Energy Security and Net Zero, whether any review has been undertaken of biomass sustainability verification procedures following allegations raised in the Drax whistleblower case.

Answered by Michael Shanks - Minister of State (Department for Energy Security and Net Zero)

The Government keeps arrangements for assuring compliance with biomass sustainability requirements under review and is committed to a process of continuous improvement in biomass sustainability standards, compliance, and verification.

This includes considering lessons from Ofgem’s extensive 2024 investigation into Drax’s sustainability reporting and the recently completed global audit of Drax’s biomass supply chain which Ofgem required Drax to conduct and fund. Reporting and verification arrangements have been strengthened under the new contract with Drax from 2027-31, including enhanced audit rights for the Low Carbon Contracts Company.

These lessons will also inform the forthcoming Common Biomass Sustainability Framework, which will strengthen sustainability criteria and ensure greater consistency across sectors in the longer term.

Question to the Department for Energy Security & Net Zero:

To ask the Secretary of State for Energy Security and Net Zero, what assessment she has made of the impact of energy debt repayment arrangements on the ability of small businesses to remain financially viable.

Answered by Polly Billington - Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State (Department for Energy Security and Net Zero)

As an independent regulator, Ofgem are responsible for monitoring non-domestic energy debt and supplier's behaviours around debt management, repayments and disconnections.

Supplier's debt practices must adhere to Ofgem rules and guidance and be consistent with the overarching customer objective that suppliers treat non-domestic consumers fairly.

Ofgem continually monitor supplier's compliance with these requirements and undertake formal and informal enforcement actions where necessary.

Question to the Department for Energy Security & Net Zero:

To ask the Secretary of State for Energy Security and Net Zero, how many proposed data centres have (a) requested and (b) received an electricity-grid connection offer; what their combined requested capacity is; and what assessment has been made of the potential effect of those requests on connection dates for (i) housing developments, (ii) manufacturing businesses and (iii) low-carbon electricity generation.

Answered by Martin McCluskey - Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State (Department for Energy Security and Net Zero)

Data collected in 2025 and published by the National Energy System Operator shows 72.8 GW of capacity allocated to data centres in the GB connection queue across transmission and distribution. It is not currently possible to provide a count of individual projects.

Government recently consulted on measures to manage the current oversubscription of data centre connections, which is contributing to connection delays for demand projects of all types, and will publish its response in due course.

Question to the Department for Energy Security & Net Zero:

To ask the Secretary of State for Energy Security and Net Zero, what steps her Department is taking to ensure that low-income households living in sub-metered accommodation can access equivalent support to that available through the Warm Home Discount.

Answered by Polly Billington - Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State (Department for Energy Security and Net Zero)

The Government recognises the challenges faced by low-income households whose energy is supplied through sub-metering arrangements.

Eligibility for the Warm Home Discount requires the bill payer, or their partner, to receive a qualifying means-tested benefit and to be named on the electricity bill. Where tenants are not named on the bill, they may be unable to receive the rebate. The Government has confirmed that the £150 Warm Home Discount will continue until winter 2030/31 and will keep under consideration how energy support can most effectively reach households without a direct domestic supply relationship.

Tenants may also be supported through Warm Home Discount Industry Initiatives. These include energy efficiency measures, energy advice, boiler and central heating replacements, financial assistance payments, debt write-off, and benefit entitlement checks. The government has also introduced the £1 billion Crisis and Resilience fund which replaces the Household Support Fund in England, providing support with cost-of-living pressures. We recommend any household struggling to pay for their essentials contacts their local authority to see if they are eligible for this support.

Question to the Department for Energy Security & Net Zero:

To ask the Secretary of State for Energy Security and Net Zero, if she will review the eligibility criteria for the Warm Home Discount to ensure that people who would otherwise qualify for support are not excluded because their energy is supplied through a sub-meter.

Answered by Polly Billington - Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State (Department for Energy Security and Net Zero)

The Government recognises the challenges faced by low-income households whose energy is supplied through sub-metering arrangements.

Eligibility for the Warm Home Discount requires the bill payer, or their partner, to receive a qualifying means-tested benefit and to be named on the electricity bill. Where tenants are not named on the bill, they may be unable to receive the rebate. The Government has confirmed that the £150 Warm Home Discount will continue until winter 2030/31 and will keep under consideration how energy support can most effectively reach households without a direct domestic supply relationship.

Tenants may also be supported through Warm Home Discount Industry Initiatives. These include energy efficiency measures, energy advice, boiler and central heating replacements, financial assistance payments, debt write-off, and benefit entitlement checks. The government has also introduced the £1 billion Crisis and Resilience fund which replaces the Household Support Fund in England, providing support with cost-of-living pressures. We recommend any household struggling to pay for their essentials contacts their local authority to see if they are eligible for this support.

Question to the Department for Energy Security & Net Zero:

To ask the Secretary of State for Energy Security and Net Zero, what assessment she has made of the potential impact of fuel poverty on households with sub-metered energy supplies that are not able to access the Warm Home Discount.

Answered by Polly Billington - Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State (Department for Energy Security and Net Zero)

The Government recognises the challenges faced by low-income households whose energy is supplied through sub-metering arrangements.

Eligibility for the Warm Home Discount requires the bill payer, or their partner, to receive a qualifying means-tested benefit and to be named on the electricity bill. Where tenants are not named on the bill, they may be unable to receive the rebate. The Government has confirmed that the £150 Warm Home Discount will continue until winter 2030/31 and will keep under consideration how energy support can most effectively reach households without a direct domestic supply relationship.

Tenants may also be supported through Warm Home Discount Industry Initiatives. These include energy efficiency measures, energy advice, boiler and central heating replacements, financial assistance payments, debt write-off, and benefit entitlement checks. The government has also introduced the £1 billion Crisis and Resilience fund which replaces the Household Support Fund in England, providing support with cost-of-living pressures. We recommend any household struggling to pay for their essentials contacts their local authority to see if they are eligible for this support.

Question to the Department for Energy Security & Net Zero:

To ask the Secretary of State for Energy Security and Net Zero, with reference to page 50 of the Warm Homes Plan 2026, if she will provide a breakdown of the £4,422m planned spend in the Low-income homes grants described in the Warm Homes Plan by expected spending on the following categories: i) solar PV ii) batteries iii) cost effective insulation, iv) smart controls v) heat pumps vi) other.

Answered by Martin McCluskey - Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State (Department for Energy Security and Net Zero)

The amount allocated to grant funding for low-income homes referenced in the Warm Homes Plan is not set against pre-determined spending categories or technologies such as solar PV, batteries, insulation, smart controls or heat pumps. Funding is allocated through capital schemes including the Warm Homes: Local Grant and the Warm Homes: Social Housing Fund, which provide support for a range of measures.

Funding is allocated in waves to grant recipients including local authorities and social housing providers which are then responsible for identifying eligible homes in their area and determining the most appropriate package of improvements taking account of factors including the needs of residents, property characteristics, existing energy performance, and value for money. As a result, Government does not hold a forecast breakdown of the £4.422 billion by individual technology type.

Question to the Department for Energy Security & Net Zero:

To ask the Secretary of State for Energy Security and Net Zero, what steps she is taking to increase the proportion of data centres that locate in areas with excess renewables capacity.

Answered by Martin McCluskey - Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State (Department for Energy Security and Net Zero)

Data centres can bring down constraint costs if they locate behind existing transmission constraints where they can make use of renewable generation that would otherwise be curtailed. This is why government recently consulted on reforms to align data centre connections to regional infrastructure targets, delivering on government’s ambitions for digital infrastructure and AI, while balancing the needs of our energy system.

Question to the Department for Energy Security & Net Zero:

To ask the Secretary of State for Energy Security and Net Zero, what support (a) her Department, (b) the National Cyber Security Centre and (c) other government bodies provided to the operator of the power generation facility reportedly shut down for four days in July 2026 as a result of a cyber attack.

Answered by Michael Shanks - Minister of State (Department for Energy Security and Net Zero)

I cannot comment on specific incidents whilst investigations are ongoing for reasons of national security.

I can, however, confirm that the incident referred to impacted micro-scale generation, and at no point was there a risk to the wider energy system.

Question to the Department for Energy Security & Net Zero:

To ask the Secretary of State for Energy Security and Net Zero, how many households' energy needs are met, on average, by the power generation facility reportedly shut down for four days in July 2026 as a result of a cyber attack.

Answered by Michael Shanks - Minister of State (Department for Energy Security and Net Zero)

I cannot comment on specific incidents whilst investigations are ongoing for reasons of national security.

I can, however, confirm that the incident referred to impacted micro-scale generation, and at no point was there a risk to the wider energy system.

Question to the Department for Energy Security & Net Zero:

To ask the Secretary of State for Energy Security and Net Zero, what assessment his Department has made of the potential impact of smart meter rollout on higher usage customers, including retired and elderly consumers; and what steps his Department has taken to help support customers with higher domestic energy costs.

Answered by Martin McCluskey - Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State (Department for Energy Security and Net Zero)

Smart meters automatically send accurate readings to energy suppliers, removing the need for consumers, including those with poor mobility or older consumers, to take manual readings and helping ensure bills are based on actual rather than estimated usage.

In-home displays also provide near-real-time information on energy use and costs, helping consumers understand how to use less energy and save on their bills.

As recently announced, VAT will be removed from domestic electricity bills from October 1^st, taking an expected £45 off October’s yearly Ofgem price cap and adding to the £150 removed from bills last Budget, now factored into bills.

Question to the Department for Energy Security & Net Zero:

To ask the Secretary of State for Energy Security and Net Zero, if she will set out a timeline for a final funding decision from the Hydrogen Allocation Round 2 process.

Answered by Martin McCluskey - Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State (Department for Energy Security and Net Zero)

We are working hard across government to start the Invite to Offer stage of the second Hydrogen Allocation Round (HAR2) as soon as possible and will be in touch with projects when this commences. Contract awards for successful projects will follow shortly afterwards. We will provide detailed guidance to projects which have been invited to the Invite to Offer stage, which will include clear timelines. We appreciate that there have been delays to this process and we thank projects for their patience and continued engagement.

Question to the Department for Energy Security & Net Zero:

To ask the Secretary of State for Energy Security and Net Zero, what steps he is taking to help improve public awareness of the risks associated with spray foam insulation, including the circumstances in which it may affect mortgage lending or insurance.

Answered by Martin McCluskey - Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State (Department for Energy Security and Net Zero)

I convened a roundtable in Spring with lenders, consumer bodies and the insulation industry and I agreed with attendees to continue working with my officials on public awareness around spray foam.

While most lenders now consider applications, it is important that banks, surveyors and homeowners use the information now available so they can make informed decisions and that homes are treated on a case-by-case basis.

Question to the Department for Energy Security & Net Zero:

To ask the Secretary of State for Energy Security and Net Zero, what assessment she has made of the potential impact of the difference between upfront grid connection costs in the UK and equivalent sites in other European countries on industrial investment decisions.

Answered by Blair McDougall - Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State (Department for Business, Innovation, Science and Trade) (Jointly with the Department for Energy Security and Net Zero)

This government is committed to supporting industrial investment in Great Britain, although responsibility for the connection charging regulatory framework falls to Ofgem. To reduce barriers to investment, Ofgem recently consulted on proposals to move away from the current securities regime for demand users, which requires all transmission costs to be securitised up front, to a milestones-based regime. Ofgem will publish its decision on this in due course.

Question to the Department for Energy Security & Net Zero:

To ask the Secretary of State for Energy Security and Net Zero, what consideration she has made of the potential merits of extending the Green Gas Support Scheme to new applications beyond 2028.

Answered by Katie White - Minister of State (Department for Energy Security and Net Zero)

The GGSS budget is set to balance delivery of the intended benefits of biomethane with affordability for bill payers. In the context of the original budget envelope for the Green Gas Support Scheme being fully allocated, we are carefully considering our approach to budget setting for the GGSS, including the case for supporting new applications from 1 April 2028.

The Department is aware of the need to provide certainty on this as soon as possible.

Question to the Department for Energy Security & Net Zero:

To ask the Secretary of State for Energy Security and Net Zero, whether she plans to introduce separate market (a) mechanisms and (b) quotas for engineered greenhouse gas removals within the UK Emissions Trading Scheme.

Answered by Blair McDougall - Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State (Department for Business, Innovation, Science and Trade) (Jointly with the Department for Energy Security and Net Zero)

In its July 2025 Authority Response, the UK Emissions Trading Scheme Authority set out the market design for integrating engineered greenhouse gas removals into the UK ETS. For initial integration, it set out that one fewer emissions allowance will be auctioned for every removal allowance issued, maintaining total allowance supply and the scheme’s ambition. Further technical design will be consulted on in due course.

Question to the Department for Energy Security & Net Zero:

To ask the Secretary of State for Energy Security and Net Zero, with reference to the National Infrastructure and Service Transformation Authority Major Projects Annual Report 2025 to 2026, Tables, what recent progress has she made in establishing the Warm Homes Agency.

Answered by Martin McCluskey - Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State (Department for Energy Security and Net Zero)

The scope of the Warm Homes Agency is continuing to be developed. In line with the “Rewiring the State” agenda, we are developing the Agency’s design, functions and governance so that it simplifies delivery, improves accountability and provides better value for money.

This includes considering how the Agency can work effectively with Mayoral Strategic Authorities and local authorities to support place-based delivery. We are continuing to prioritise key enabling activities such as the necessary Primary Legislation.

Question to the Department for Energy Security & Net Zero:

To ask the Secretary of State for Energy Security and Net Zero, what redress is available to homeowners whose spray foam insulation was incorrectly installed by TrustMark-approved companies that have since ceased trading.

Answered by Martin McCluskey - Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State (Department for Energy Security and Net Zero)

If the installer is no longer trading, consumers should contact the guarantee provider associated with the installation. TrustMark registered installers are required to provide financial protection through approved guarantee arrangements, subject to the policy terms and conditions.

Installers should provide consumers with a copy of the guarantee after installation is complete. Where consumers do not have a copy of a guarantee, they should contact the installer's scheme provider in the first instance or alternatively get in touch with TrustMark directly.

Question to the Department for Energy Security & Net Zero:

To ask the Secretary of State for Energy Security and Net Zero, what assessment the department has made of the effectiveness of the Standard Assessment Procedure when applied to new energy-saving technologies.

Answered by Martin McCluskey - Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State (Department for Energy Security and Net Zero)

The Government recognises that there are opportunities to improve how the Standard Assessment Procedure (SAP) accommodates and recognises new energy-saving technologies and is taking steps to address these as part of the transition to the Home Energy Model.

We have strengthened our latest contractual Key Performance Indicators to refine guidance materials and improve application timescales. Additionally, the new modular HEM will enable new technologies to be recognised in the core engine on a more frequent basis, removing the need for a ‘bolt-on’ calculation.

Question to the Department for Energy Security & Net Zero:

To ask the Secretary of State for Energy Security and Net Zero, what assessment he has made of the adequacy of the cyber resilience of UK energy infrastructure.

Answered by Michael Shanks - Minister of State (Department for Energy Security and Net Zero)

The Government monitors and assesses the cyber resilience of UK energy infrastructure through a combination of annual regulatory assurance returns, on-site inspections conducted under the Network and Information Systems (NIS) Regulations, and regular engagement with industry. This is supported by technical assessments and threat intelligence provided by the National Cyber Security Centre (NCSC).

The cyber threat continues to evolve, and the Government keeps the resilience of the energy sector under continual review to ensure our defensive posture is appropriate and proportionate to the cyber threat. The Cyber Security and Resilience Bill will further strengthen resilience by expanding the scope of cyber regulation and enhancing requirements to manage cyber risk and respond to incidents.

Question to the Department for Energy Security & Net Zero:

To ask the Secretary of State for Energy Security and Net Zero, what support is available to homeowners with incorrectly installed spray foam insulation through TrustMark-approved schemes outside the ECO4 and Great British Insulation Scheme.

Answered by Martin McCluskey - Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State (Department for Energy Security and Net Zero)

The Government is committed to supporting homeowners that have had poor quality installations obtain redress.

Where products, including spray foam, have not been installed correctly installers are required to remedy the work. Where installed by a TrustMark registered business, customers should follow the TrustMark dispute resolution process. The TrustMark website contains further guidance on how consumers can complain if things go wrong and the dispute resolution process: https://www.trustmark.org.uk/homeowners/if-things-go-wrong.

Consumers can also contact their respective guarantee provider to make a claim, subject to the policy's terms and conditions.

Question to the Department for Energy Security & Net Zero:

To ask the Secretary of State for Energy Security and Net Zero, whether he has made an assessment of the extent to which energy providers are requiring smart meter customers to vary their usage patterns as a condition of accessing advertised tariff benefits; and what consumer protections are in place in those circumstances.

Answered by Martin McCluskey - Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State (Department for Energy Security and Net Zero)

Smart meters unlock flexible time-of-use tariffs that incentivise consumers to shift consumption to off-peak periods when overall demand is low and can pay them to use energy when there is surplus on the grid, such as on sunny or windy days. Consumers with these tariffs are not required to use energy at set times.

Ofgem’s supply licence conditions require suppliers to make tariff and contract information available to customers before they enter contracts, and more broadly to treat domestic customers fairly, honestly and transparently.

Question to the Department for Energy Security & Net Zero:

To ask the Secretary of State for Energy Security and Net Zero, will she take steps to ensure energy companies provide automatic refunds to customers in a timely manner.

Answered by Polly Billington - Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State (Department for Energy Security and Net Zero)

The Government, through its review of Ofgem and its consultation on faster and fairer redress for consumers, has set out reforms to strengthen the regulator as a consumer champion, including stronger powers to enforce consumer law directly and help ensure customers receive what they are owed.

The Government expects energy suppliers to refund customers promptly where money is owed. Ofgem already requires automatic compensation in specific cases, including late final bills and late credit balance refunds.

The Government will continue supporting Ofgem’s review of Guaranteed Standards of Performance (GSOP) payments including proposals for inflation-linked compensation and repeat payments for prolonged serious failures.

Question to the Department for Energy Security & Net Zero:

To ask the Secretary of State for Energy Security and Net Zero, what estimate he has made of expected electricity demand growth arising from (a) data centres and (b) artificial intelligence by 2035.

Answered by Martin McCluskey - Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State (Department for Energy Security and Net Zero)

Future electricity demand for both data centres and artificial intelligence overall is inherently uncertain. This is because different scenarios for capacity, efficiency, utilisation and ramp-up rates of data centres, as well as scenarios for AI adoption and speed of technological change, interact in complex ways and translate into varying annual electricity consumption.

The Government continues to work with the National Energy System Operator, Ofgem and industry to monitor developments and test how a range of scenarios interface with final consumption.

Question to the Department for Energy Security & Net Zero:

To ask the Secretary of State for Energy Security and Net Zero, what discussions he has had with businesses shortlisted under the second Hydrogen Allocation Round on progression to the Invite to Offer stage of negotiations before the end of 2026.

Answered by Martin McCluskey - Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State (Department for Energy Security and Net Zero)

DESNZ Ministers and officials have met with developers shortlisted in the second Hydrogen Allocation Round on a case-by-case basis to discuss their progress and any issues they may be facing. Guidance on the allocation round process was provided to developers in the HAR2 Invite to Offer Broadcast meeting in November 2025. We are working hard across government to start the Invite to Offer stage of HAR2 as soon as possible and will be in touch with projects when this commences.

Question to the Department for Energy Security & Net Zero:

To ask the Secretary of State for Energy Security and Net Zero, what steps he is taking to ensure that the time taken for hydrogen policy and funding announcements does not reduce private sector investment into the domestic hydrogen sector.

Answered by Martin McCluskey - Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State (Department for Energy Security and Net Zero)

We understand the importance of providing clarity to businesses across the hydrogen sector. We plan to publish the renewed Hydrogen Strategy, alongside a package of other hydrogen policy documents, as soon as possible.

In relation to the second hydrogen allocation round, we are working hard across government to start the Invite to Offer stage as soon as possible

We understand that many projects are at critical stages, and that timeline certainty is important to support business planning, resource management and engagement with third parties.

Question to the Department for Energy Security & Net Zero:

To ask the Secretary of State for Energy Security and Net Zero, what assessment his department has made of the potential impact of the requirement for all rental properties to obtain a level of C for the Energy Performance Certificate on homeowners, and whether exemptions have been considered for properties that have previously made energy efficiency improvements such as loft insulation or double glazing installed.

Answered by Martin McCluskey - Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State (Department for Energy Security and Net Zero)

The Impact Assessment, which provides an estimated impact of the final policy, including on owners of let homes was published on 7 February 2026.

Properties that can demonstrate appropriate energy efficiency measures are already in place will have these represented in their EPC assessment and rating. Those property owners who make energy efficiency improvements before the standard applies and can demonstrate their property is EPC C before 1 October 2029 will be considered compliant under the transition measures until their EPC expires. Those who install, or have installed since 1 October 2025, relevant measures in their properties, but are unable to achieve a C rating in advance of the transition deadline, may be able to count their spend towards a cost cap exemption once the standard applies.

Question to the Department for Energy Security & Net Zero:

To ask the Secretary of State for Energy Security and Net Zero, what steps the department is taking to ensure the Standard Assessment Procedure is kept up to date in line with technological advancements in energy-saving technology.

Answered by Martin McCluskey - Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State (Department for Energy Security and Net Zero)

The Government is taking steps to ensure that the Standard Assessment Procedure (SAP) continues to recognise innovative energy- saving technologies and remains fit for purpose during the transition to the Home Energy Model.

We have strengthened KPIs in our latest contracts to improve application timescales and the operation of the product recognition process. This includes working with our commercial partners to define timeframes where appropriate and refining guidance materials to deliver a clearer end-to-end process.

Question to the Department for Energy Security & Net Zero:

To ask the Secretary of State for Energy Security and Net Zero, what assessment he has made of the potential impact of increasing the level of UK content in projects shortlisted under the second Hydrogen Allocation Round on the economy and job creation.

Answered by Martin McCluskey - Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State (Department for Energy Security and Net Zero)

Hydrogen was identified as a frontier technology in the Clean Energy Industries Sector Plan for its potential to drive economic growth, create high-quality jobs, and build the industries of the future. Projects from the first Hydrogen Allocation Round are expected to unlock around £400 million of private investment and create over 600 direct jobs. We welcome the hydrogen industry’s voluntary ambition for 50% local content and are exploring how hydrogen allocation rounds can go further to support jobs, skills and UK suppliers.

Question to the Department for Energy Security & Net Zero:

To ask the Secretary of State for Energy Security and Net Zero, what steps his Department is taking to help ensure that the terms and conditions attached to smart meter tariff benefits, including off-peak and free supply offers, are communicated transparently to consumers at the point of sign-up.

Answered by Martin McCluskey - Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State (Department for Energy Security and Net Zero)

Ofgem’s supply licence conditions require energy suppliers to take all reasonable steps to communicate the principal terms of an energy contract in plain and intelligible language.

Licence conditions also require suppliers to treat customers fairly, provide tariff information in a way that is complete, accurate and not misleading, and comply with rules on marketing, sales and contract information. Ofgem is responsible for monitoring and enforcing supplier compliance with these obligations.

Question to the Department for Energy Security & Net Zero:

To ask the Secretary of State for Energy Security and Net Zero, what estimate the department has made of the comparative performance of predicted and actual energy performance of homes.

Answered by Martin McCluskey - Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State (Department for Energy Security and Net Zero)

The Department has funded evidence on the relationship between predicted and actual home energy performance through its publicly available EPC Accuracy Research. The research identified differences between modelled EPC energy use and metered household energy consumption and found that these differences reflected a range of factors, including assumptions within methodologies, occupancy rates and changes to properties since EPCs were produced. The findings helped inform the development of RdSAP 10 and are informing the upcoming Home Energy Model to better reflect real-world building performance.

Question to the Department for Energy Security & Net Zero:

To ask the Secretary of State for Energy Security and Net Zero, what assessment he has made of the adequacy of UK gas storage capacity for winter 2026/27.

Answered by Michael Shanks - Minister of State (Department for Energy Security and Net Zero)

The UK uses diverse gas supply sources to meet winter demand, including domestic UK Continental Shelf production, pipeline and interconnector imports, and Europe’s second largest LNG import infrastructure.

Gas storage, filled from these sources, provides system flexibility to respond to short-term changes in supply and demand. In winter 2025/26, gas storage supplied 5% of total GB gas use and we expect it to contribute a similar amount this winter.

As set out in our interim response to the Gas System in Transition: Security of Supply consultation, we recognise that gas infrastructure needs may change through the energy transition. We will further assess whether additional infrastructure, including strategic gas storage, is required, and will publish a full response in due course.

Question to the Department for Energy Security & Net Zero:

To ask the Secretary of State for Energy Security and Net Zero, with reference to the ADE: Demand report entitled Powered by People, Powered by Place, whether his Department plans to provide guidance on the expectations for reliability and planning for demand flexibility as compared with traditional infrastructure assets within Regional Energy Strategic Plans frameworks.

Answered by Michael Shanks - Minister of State (Department for Energy Security and Net Zero)

The Government has noted and is considering the recommendations in the Association for Decentralised Energy's report, Powered by People, Powered by Place.

Responsibility for the development of Regional Energy Strategic Plans (RESPs) and the associated governance arrangements sits with the National Energy System Operator (NESO), under Ofgem's policy framework and guidance. Following their consultation, NESO is currently finalising the RESP methodology. DESNZ Secretary of State and Ofgem are due to review and approve the methodology in due course.

RESPs are intended to support whole-system planning across electricity, gas, heat and hydrogen networks at the distribution level, and consider industrial energy demand, heat networks, storage and flexibility.

Question to the Department for Energy Security & Net Zero:

To ask the Secretary of State for Energy Security and Net Zero, with reference to the ADE: Demand report entitled Powered by People, Powered by Place, what steps he is taking to help ensure that technologies which deliver whole system savings, such as thermal storage and industrial flexibility, are able to access those savings.

Answered by Michael Shanks - Minister of State (Department for Energy Security and Net Zero)

The Government has noted and is considering the recommendations in the Association for Decentralised Energy's report, Powered by People, Powered by Place.

Responsibility for the development of Regional Energy Strategic Plans (RESPs) and the associated governance arrangements sits with the National Energy System Operator (NESO), under Ofgem's policy framework and guidance. Following their consultation, NESO is currently finalising the RESP methodology. DESNZ Secretary of State and Ofgem are due to review and approve the methodology in due course.

RESPs are intended to support whole-system planning across electricity, gas, heat and hydrogen networks at the distribution level, and consider industrial energy demand, heat networks, storage and flexibility.

Question to the Department for Energy Security & Net Zero:

To ask the Secretary of State for Energy Security and Net Zero, with reference to the ADE: Demand report entitled Powered by People, Powered by Place, whether his Department has plans to ensure that Regional Energy Strategic Plans support industrial sites to optioneer decarbonisation routes.

Answered by Michael Shanks - Minister of State (Department for Energy Security and Net Zero)

The Government has noted and is considering the recommendations in the Association for Decentralised Energy's report, Powered by People, Powered by Place.

Responsibility for the development of Regional Energy Strategic Plans (RESPs) and the associated governance arrangements sits with the National Energy System Operator (NESO), under Ofgem's policy framework and guidance. Following their consultation, NESO is currently finalising the RESP methodology. DESNZ Secretary of State and Ofgem are due to review and approve the methodology in due course.

RESPs are intended to support whole-system planning across electricity, gas, heat and hydrogen networks at the distribution level, and consider industrial energy demand, heat networks, storage and flexibility.

Question to the Department for Energy Security & Net Zero:

To ask the Secretary of State for Energy Security and Net Zero, what assessment she has made of the potential implications for her policies of NESO Future Energy Scenarios' ambition of achieving 30TWh of domestic renewable gas production by 2035.

Answered by Katie White - Minister of State (Department for Energy Security and Net Zero)

The Department is aware of a range of evidence showing that increasing biomethane deployment is a cost-effective route to delivering net zero, whilst also offering wider system benefits, such as waste management. This includes the Biomass Strategy 2023 estimate of 30-40TWh of biomethane production in 2050.

The Department is carefully considering this evidence to inform future support for the biomethane sector.

Question to the Department for Energy Security & Net Zero:

To ask the Secretary of State for Energy Security and Net Zero, what assessment her Department has made of the number of UK households without connection to the electricity grid.

Answered by Michael Shanks - Minister of State (Department for Energy Security and Net Zero)

The government does not publish a regular assessment of the number of UK households without a connection to the electricity grid. However, the Energy Bills Support Scheme Impact Assessment estimated that around 500 to 2,000 energy consumers were living off grid.

Question to the Department for Energy Security & Net Zero:

To ask the Secretary of State for Energy Security and Net Zero, how many jobs have been created as a direct result of investment decisions taken by GB Energy.

Answered by Michael Shanks - Minister of State (Department for Energy Security and Net Zero)

Since its establishment, GB Energy’s investments have supported approximately 1,500 jobs nationwide. As GBE increases its activity in the renewable energy market, we can expect this to rise in line with its targets to support over 10,000 jobs by 2030.

Question to the Department for Energy Security & Net Zero:

To ask the Secretary of State for Energy Security and Net Zero, pursuant to the answer of 15 June 2026, to Question 7167, on Nuclear Power: Regulation, where there will be (a) primary or (b) secondary legislation to deliver the reforms in the Fingleton Nuclear Regulatory Review 2025, and whether this will include amendments to the assimilated EU law of the Habitat Regulations.

Answered by Michael Shanks - Minister of State (Department for Energy Security and Net Zero)

In our response to the Nuclear Regulatory Review the Government set out that we will deliver the reforms through a combination of legislative and non-legislative measures. In the King’s Speech we announced a Nuclear Regulation Bill. Further details will be set out in due course.

The Government remains committed to protecting and enhancing nature and the Habitats Regulations and Species Regulations 2017 play a vital role in protecting internationally important wildlife sites by ensuring that development does not harm the most valuable and vulnerable species and habitats

Question to the Department for Energy Security & Net Zero:

To ask the Secretary of State for Energy Security and Net Zero, what steps she is taking to ensure that technologies supported through the Ultra-Long Duration Energy Storage Challenge can progress from research and development to commercial deployment at scale in the UK.

Answered by Michael Shanks - Minister of State (Department for Energy Security and Net Zero)

The Ultra-Long Duration Energy Storage (ULDES) Challenge is part of the Government's Research and Development Mission Accelerator Programme (R&D MAP). A key element of the Programme is a focus not only on technology development, but also on the wider policy, regulatory, market and commercial conditions needed for successful deployment. DESNZ is working closely with UK Research and Innovation, regulators and industry to identify how they can work together to ensure that technologies emerging from the Programme can achieve real-world deployment and impact.

Question to the Department for Energy Security & Net Zero:

To ask the Secretary of State for Energy Security and Net Zero, what discussions she has had with National Grid and Scottish network operators on bringing forward grid connections for renewable projects in Ayrshire.

Answered by Michael Shanks - Minister of State (Department for Energy Security and Net Zero)

Ministers and officials engage regularly with National Grid and Scottish network operators, as well as the National Energy System Operator and Ofgem, on a range of issues relating to electricity network capacity, the delivery of network infrastructure and grid connections for clean energy projects. These discussions include how to accelerate network development, implement connections reform and ensure that viable renewable energy projects can connect to the electricity system as quickly as possible. This includes helping to deliver connections for renewable energy projects across Great Britain, including in Ayrshire.

Question to the Department for Energy Security & Net Zero:

To ask the Secretary of State for Energy Security and Net Zero, with reference to the National Infrastructure and Service Transformation Authority Major Projects Annual Report 2025 to 2026, Tables, Geological Disposal Facility, what progress has she made in delivering the action plan to address the current Delivery Confidence Assessment of RED.

Answered by Michael Shanks - Minister of State (Department for Energy Security and Net Zero)

The UK Government is committed to implementing geological disposal. A Geological Disposal Facility is essential for the safe, permanent disposal of the UK’s most hazardous radioactive waste from both legacy sites and new nuclear projects.

DESNZ continues to work closely with Nuclear Waste Services as they deliver the action plan, which includes a review and update of the programme’s business case and lifetime plan.

Question to the Department for Energy Security & Net Zero:

To ask the Secretary of State for Energy Security and Net Zero, on how many occasions (a) enhanced monitoring and (b) emergency response arrangements were implemented at civil nuclear sites as a result of external hazards, including wildfires, flooding and extreme weather since 1 January 2020.

Answered by Michael Shanks - Minister of State (Department for Energy Security and Net Zero)

The Office for Nuclear Regulation (ONR) independently regulates safety and security across the nuclear sector. Since 1 January 2020 ONR were notified of 12 occasions of enhanced monitoring and 3 occasions where a level of emergency response arrangements were activated by a site in response to external hazards.

Enhanced monitoring and response arrangements such as a site Operational Alert are precautionary measures and do not indicate a risk to nuclear safety or a need for emergency response action beyond the site.

Question to the Department for Energy Security & Net Zero:

To ask the Secretary of State for Energy Security and Net Zero, what assessment she has made of the potential impact of plug-in solar deployment on the capacity requirements of the electricity distribution network in the south east of England.

Answered by Michael Shanks - Minister of State (Department for Energy Security and Net Zero)

The Department expects the impact of plug-in solar on network capacity requirements to be small as the maximum power output is low and most of the electricity generated is expected to be self-consumed. We have worked with the Energy Networks Association (ENA) to develop a simple consumer registration platform to provide network operators with visibility of installations and support network planning.

Question to the Department for Energy Security & Net Zero:

To ask the Secretary of State for Energy Security and Net Zero, what was the total cost of facility time to the department in (a) 2023-24, (b) 2024-25 and (c) 2025-26; and what was the headcount number of facility time staff in each; how many were 100% facility time; and whether funding was provided for trade union activities in each of those years.

Answered by Michael Shanks - Minister of State (Department for Energy Security and Net Zero)

2025/26 not recorded as requirement to record was repealed.

Question to the Department for Energy Security & Net Zero:

To ask the Secretary of State for Energy Security and Net Zero, what assessment she has made of the potential implications for her policies of reports by the Green Gas Taskforce, the Anaerobic Digestion and Bioresources Association and others, that the most cost-effective route to net zero requires increases in the production of biomethane in the coming years.

Answered by Katie White - Minister of State (Department for Energy Security and Net Zero)

The Department is aware of a range of evidence showing that increasing biomethane deployment is a cost-effective route to delivering net zero, whilst also offering wider system benefits, such as waste management. This includes the Biomass Strategy 2023 estimate of 30-40TWh of biomethane production in 2050.

The Department is carefully considering this evidence to inform future support for the biomethane sector.

Question to the Department for Energy Security & Net Zero:

To ask the Secretary of State for Energy Security and Net Zero, what plans she has to engage with the Northern Ireland Executive on her departmental priorities.

Answered by Michael Shanks - Minister of State (Department for Energy Security and Net Zero)

DESNZ engages regularly with the Northern Ireland Executive on matters relating to energy security, net zero and climate change. This includes through established intergovernmental structures, including the Net Zero, Energy and Climate Change Interministerial Group, its supporting official-level forums, as well as through regular bilateral ministerial and official engagement with Northern Ireland Executive counterparts. Recent discussions have covered issues including energy security, fuel resilience, electricity system preparedness and net zero priorities.

Question to the Department for Energy Security & Net Zero:

To ask the Secretary of State for Energy Security and Net Zero, how many (a) minor, (b) moderate and (c) major incident notification forms have been submitted to the Office for Nuclear Regulation in each year since 2010.

Answered by Michael Shanks - Minister of State (Department for Energy Security and Net Zero)

ONR’s incident notification process requires dutyholders to state their judgement on an incident’s significance as minor, moderate or major in the initial notification form. A “major incident notification form” therefore does not necessarily correspond to a “major incident” or represent ONR’s final assessment.

The same incident may be reported more than once where it involves multiple dutyholders or ONR regulatory purposes.

Figures cover dutyholder notifications submitted between 1 January 2017 and 1 September 2026. ONR introduced its WIReD information-management system in 2016; earlier data is not retrievable within the timeframe.

Question to the Department for Energy Security & Net Zero:

To ask the Secretary of State for Energy Security and Net Zero, what assessment she has made of the potential impact of woodland-based greenhouse gas removal units on demand for engineered greenhouse gas removals within the UK Emissions Trading Scheme.

Answered by Blair McDougall - Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State (Department for Business, Innovation, Science and Trade) (Jointly with the Department for Energy Security and Net Zero)

The UK Emissions Trading Scheme Authority set out its position on the integration of Greenhouse Gas Removals in its July 2025 Response to Consultation. This included published analysis and evidence on woodland creation in the UK, but no decision on the possible integration of woodland in the UK ETS has been made.

Question to the Department for Energy Security & Net Zero:

To ask the Secretary of State for Energy Security and Net Zero, what discussions she has had with energy companies on reforming the energy market since her appointment.

Answered by Michael Shanks - Minister of State (Department for Energy Security and Net Zero)

The Secretary of State has regular discussions with energy companies on a range of subjects including energy market reform.

The Government’s vision is for a retail energy market that works for consumers, is more resilient and enables households to benefit from cheap, clean power. We are also strengthening Ofgem so it can enforce higher standards and improve redress.

Question to the Department for Energy Security & Net Zero:

To ask the Secretary of State for Energy Security and Net Zero, pursuant to the answer of 14 July 2026 to question 16796, how many reports were received in the last 12 months that did not meet the mandatory thresholds.

Answered by Michael Shanks - Minister of State (Department for Energy Security and Net Zero)

DESNZ does not routinely publish or disclose information relating to voluntary cyber incident reporting, as doing so could prejudice the security and resilience of operators and the wider energy sector. As a result, we do not provide figures on the number of voluntary reports received that fall below the NIS mandatory reporting thresholds.

Operators are encouraged to report cyber incidents and emerging threats to DESNZ, including those that do not meet the mandatory reporting thresholds, where there may be potential implications for energy sector resilience. Such reporting helps to improve situational awareness and supports cross-sector resilience activity.

Question to the Department for Energy Security & Net Zero:

To ask the Secretary of State for Energy Security and Net Zero, what specific diversity and inclusion (a) days, (b) weeks and (c) months, were recognised and marked by (i) the department and (ii) each of its agencies, in the calendar year 2025.

Answered by Michael Shanks - Minister of State (Department for Energy Security and Net Zero)

In 2025, the department marked National Inclusion Week as part of its commitment to inclusion.

Records of activity in DESNZ agencies are not held centrally by the department.

Question to the Department for Energy Security & Net Zero:

To ask the Secretary of State for Energy Security and Net Zero, what steps her Department is taking to ensure a safe and effective transition from fossil fuels to renewable energies; and what financial assistance and incentives will be provided to homeowners, private and social housing providers.

Answered by Michael Shanks - Minister of State (Department for Energy Security and Net Zero)

We are delivering on our ambitious plan to move our electricity system to clean power that we control – breaking our dependence on imported fossil fuels and protecting everyone from future price spikes. The Prime Minister and the Government is committed to delivering clean power because it gives us energy security, protects households and businesses from global price shocks, helps tackle the climate crisis and creates hundreds of thousands of jobs across Britain.

The Warm Homes Plan is the biggest public investment in home upgrades in British history and includes an offer of support to every type of household. Those on low-incomes can access fully-funded grant support through the Warm Homes: Local Grant, delivered through local authorities, and the Warm Homes: Social Housing Fund, delivered through social housing providers.

Universal grant support of up to £9,000 is available for heat pump installations through the Boiler Upgrade Scheme, and the Warm Homes Plan commits to a brand new scheme offering low interest, government-backed consumer loans backed with £2 billion of public funding. Renters will be supported by our plans to raise minimum energy efficiency standards on landlords for properties they rent out, which will help lift thousands of families out of fuel poverty.

Question to the Department for Energy Security & Net Zero:

To ask the Secretary of State for Energy Security and Net Zero, what comparative assessment he has made of the maximum level of financial penalties that can be issued for offshore oil spills between the UK and other countries, including Norway and the United States.

Answered by Michael Shanks - Minister of State (Department for Energy Security and Net Zero)

The Department has not undertaken a formal comparative assessment of the maximum financial penalties that may be imposed for offshore oil spills in other countries. The UK operates a comprehensive offshore environmental regulatory regime which includes civil sanctions, criminal offences and other enforcement measures designed to secure compliance and protect the marine environment. The Government keeps the effectiveness of this regime under review.

Question to the Department for Energy Security & Net Zero:

To ask the Secretary of State for Energy Security and Net Zero, whether her Department considered the potential merits of mandating partial installation of solar canopies on existing outdoor car parks above a specified number of spaces.

Answered by Michael Shanks - Minister of State (Department for Energy Security and Net Zero)

The government did not consider the potential merits of mandating partial installation of solar canopies on existing outdoor car parks above a specified number of spaces. The installation of solar canopies on existing car parks is associated with increased costs and disruption. Existing car parks may not have accounted for this capital expenditure in their business plans, so the additional upfront costs may impact business viability.

Question to the Department for Energy Security & Net Zero:

To ask the Secretary of State for Energy Security and Net Zero, what steps the Accounting Officer and Permanent Secretary has taken since July 2024 to prevent conflicts of interest regarding Quadrature.

Answered by Michael Shanks - Minister of State (Department for Energy Security and Net Zero)

DESNZ does not have any contract or direct relation with Quadrature. The department does however work with organisations that have previously received funding from the separate legal entity, Quadrature Climate Foundation (QCF), and has taken measures that mitigate any risks of Conflicts of Interest.

Question to the Department for Energy Security & Net Zero:

To ask the Secretary of State for Energy Security and Net Zero, whether the Government plans to support electricity generation from landfill gas at large landfills where the RO accreditation is due to expire in March 2027.

Answered by Michael Shanks - Minister of State (Department for Energy Security and Net Zero)

Government recognises that landfill gas generation can help to reduce methane emissions, and that the commercial viability of these generators could be affected by the expiry of RO support.

The sector is highly heterogeneous, with sites varying widely in both their cost profiles and the level of methane abatement they deliver.

Generators at larger landfills contribute a larger proportion of methane abatement in the sector, but may be less dependent on subsidy given their greater gas resource and economies of scale.

No decisions on scheme eligibility or levels of support have been taken. DESNZ intend to consult on proposals shortly, and any final decisions will be subject to robust value for money considerations.

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Question to the Department for Business, Innovation, Science and Trade:

To ask the Secretary of State for Business, Innovation, Science and Trade, what other government departments are part of DRIVE35.

Answered by Blair McDougall - Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State (Department for Business, Innovation, Science and Trade) (Jointly with the Department for Energy Security and Net Zero)

DRIVE35 is led by the Department for Business, Innovation, Science and Trade (BIST) and is delivered in partnership with the Advanced Propulsion Centre and Innovate UK. Launched by our modern Industrial Strategy, DRIVE35 is the biggest government investment in the automotive industry of the post war era. With £4bn in capital and R&D funding to 2035, DRIVE35 will accelerate UK innovation in strategic vehicle technologies, support their commercial scale up, and unlock investment across all aspects of automotive manufacturing and electrification. DRIVE35 forms part of the Government's Industrial Strategy, which is delivered through a whole-of-government approach. As part of its implementation, BIST works closely with a range of departments, including DfT, HM Treasury and DESNZ.

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