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 end the (a) exploration, (b) extraction, (c) export and (d) import of fossil fuels by the United Kingdom.

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

The Government has consulted on the implementation of its commitment to not issue new oil and gas licences to explore new fields and will respond in due course. It does not intend to revoke existing licences.

The Government has announced it will introduce new legislation to restrict the future licensing of new coal mines in Great Britain. The last coal fired power station closed in October 2024.

The Government’s Clean Power 2030 Action Plan paves the way to decarbonising the wider economy by 2050 as it pursues the electrification of heat in buildings, transport, and industry.

Question to the Department for Energy Security & Net Zero:

To ask the Secretary of State for Energy Security and Net Zero, what steps he plans to take to support the home-grown hydrogen fuel cell sector in the proposed Hydrogen strategy.

Answered by Sarah Jones - Minister of State (Department for Energy Security and Net Zero)

The Industrial Strategy, through the 10 Year Clean Energy Industries Sector Plan, already backs hydrogen as a frontier technology. It clarifies how Government will capitalise on the enormous growth and jobs potential. The associated Action Plan gives the green light to industry investors and the supply chain. It provides a clear deployment timeline for our hydrogen allocation rounds and announces new investment rounds and policies to turbocharge growth in the sector.

Our Hydrogen Strategy, which we intend to publish in Autumn 2025, will build on this long-term infrastructure investment to realise the value of the hydrogen economy for the UK, optimising the job creation and economic benefits that brings.

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 for energy usage data collected by smart grid components to be exploited for (a) strategic and (b) military intelligence purposes by foreign state actors.

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

Recognising the importance of renewable and smart energy systems for flexibility and decarbonisation, the Department is working to ensure these systems are developed in a way that is secure by design, protecting energy supply, infrastructure and consumers, as well as national security. As part of this work, Government has published two consultation packages which set out proposals for minimum security and grid stability requirements, including for organisations remotely controlling electrical load.

The Department collaborates with other government departments, agencies, Ofgem and industry partners to understand and mitigate threats to energy infrastructure, setting robust regulatory standards for cyber security through the Network and Information Systems Regulations. This includes working with regulators to ensure these regulations cover critical operators as the sector evolves.

Question to the Department for Energy Security & Net Zero:

To ask the Secretary of State for Energy Security and Net Zero, what estimate his Department has made of the number of non-domestic rooftops with solar installation potential under the revised national solar deployment targets in (a) Buckinghamshire and (b) Milton Keynes.

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

No assessment has been made. However, the Government is aware of the significant potential that commercial rooftops have to play in our mission to make the UK a clean energy superpower. The recently published Solar Roadmap sets out actions for government and industry to unlock this potential including developing guidance for landlords and tenants to navigate the complex lease agreements that often hold back rooftop solar deployment.

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 (a) transparency and (b) accuracy of the information provided to the Examining Authority by (i) Sunnica and (ii) its related UK registered companies during the trading period for the 12 months ending 30 April 2024.

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

The full reasons for the Secretary of State’ planning decision on the Sunnica project are set out in the Decision Letter. Given the Secretary of State’s quasi-judicial role in taking such decisions it would not be appropriate to comment further.

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 firmware updates to photovoltaic inverters connected to the UK grid cannot be used as a vector for cyber or physical disruption.

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

Maintaining security of energy supplies is a key priority and critical energy operators are required to meet a minimum standard of cyber security and resilience, through the Network and Information Systems Regulations 2018.

The Department works continually with Ofgem and the National Cyber Security Centre to ensure that these regulations continue to capture all the most critical operators of energy generation systems. Distributed and smaller-scale generation are key components of a smart and resilient energy system. We are working to ensure that the system is developed in a way which is secure by design.

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 prohibitions under the Electricity Act 1989 of the use of high-risk foreign vendors in licensed electricity infrastructure on energy security.

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

As an open economy the UK welcomes foreign trade and investment where it supports growth, meets our regulatory requirements, and does not compromise our national security. The protection and security of the energy sector is a priority of this Government.

As well as the Electricity Act 1989, we have a range of effective measures in place which give the Government powers to balance an open investment environment to facilitate growth with protecting the parts of our economy that are the most sensitive to national security.

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 provide revenue support for privately led advanced nuclear technologies as set out in the Spending Review 2025.

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

As set out at the Spending Review, the government is providing a pathway for privately led advanced nuclear projects. Great British Energy - Nuclear (GBEN) has been tasked with a new role in assessing proposals within a new framework to be published shortly, the National Wealth Fund exploring potential investment opportunities, and the Department for Energy Security and Net Zero exploring revenue support for viable projects.

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 the deployment of advanced modular reactors in the UK on the (a) economy, (b) industry and (c) environment.

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

Advanced Modular Reactors could support energy-intensive industries by providing scalable, low-carbon energy to industrial consumers. These reactors could be well-suited for hard-to-decarbonise sectors, helping the UK achieve its growth mission and clean energy mission while securing thousands of good, skilled jobs.

Question to the Department for Energy Security & Net Zero:

To ask the Secretary of State for Energy Security and Net Zero, what estimate his Department has made of the proportion of community solar project applications in Buckinghamshire that have progressed to commissioning since 2022.

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

Solar is at the heart of the Government's mission to make the United Kingdom a clean energy superpower.

In 2025/26, we have set up £5 million in grant funding through the Great British Energy Community Fund (GBE:CF), which is available to community energy groups to help communities develop their own clean energy projects, including solar-powered generation.

Since 2022, the department has funded a hydro project in the Buckinghamshire region through the Community Energy Fund. No solar projects have been funded to date. However, the Greater Southeast Hub is currently reviewing applications from the window that closed on the 7^th July.

Question to the Department for Energy Security & Net Zero:

To ask the Secretary of State for Energy Security and Net Zero, what his Department’s planned timeline is for reviewing the electricity licensing regime to address the use of equipment from high-risk foreign vendors.

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

The protection and security of the energy sector is a priority for this Government, including manging risks from supply chains. DESNZ will continue to work closely with cross-government counterparts alongside industry to explore what further proportionate action can be taken to reduce the risks to energy infrastructure.

Ofgem and DESNZ have robust market monitoring schemes to assess electricity generation licence applications. Ofgem’s principal objective is to protect the interests of existing and future consumers, including the reduction of greenhouse gas emissions and security of supply.

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 community energy initiatives in North East Hampshire constituency.

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

Great British Energy (GBE) will deliver a step change in investment in local and community energy projects, putting communities at the heart of the energy transition as owners and partners in clean energy projects across the UK.

In 2025/26, we have made £5 million available in grant funding through the GBE Community Fund to support community energy groups in helping communities develop their own clean energy projects, delivered through the Greater Southeast Local Net Zero Hub for initiatives in Northeast Hampshire. The latest application round closed on the 7th July.

Question to the Department for Energy Security & Net Zero:

To ask the Secretary of State for Energy Security and Net Zero, what recent estimate his Department has made of the economic contribution of the solar supply chain including (a) manufacturers and (b) installers in Buckinghamshire.

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

No such estimate has been made by the Department.

We recognise that manufacturers and installers will contribute significantly to our clean power ambitions. The Solar Roadmap sets out actions for Government and industry aimed at maximising the opportunities arising from further commercialisation of solar technologies and components and delivering a resilient, highly skilled, well-paid solar workforce throughout the UK.

Question to the Department for Energy Security & Net Zero:

To ask the Secretary of State for Energy Security and Net Zero, which organisations received funding through the Industry Initiative component of the Warm Home Discount scheme in the last 12 months; and how much each organisation received.

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

The Department sets the overall policy and spending targets for the scheme but the financial responsibility for delivering these initiatives lies with energy suppliers.

For more detailed information on the latest assessment of WHD delivery (2023/24), including data on industry initiatives, please visit https://www.ofgem.gov.uk/publications/warm-home-discount-annual-report-scheme-year-13 . The data for Scheme Year 14 (2024/25) will be published 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 his Department has taken to track the proportion of solar developments in Buckinghamshire that incorporate biodiversity net gain requirements.

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

Biodiversity net gain is a legal requirement under the Environment Act 2021. This means that, to acquire planning permission, biodiversity must increase by 10% compared to previous levels. This is currently only the case for projects being decided in the local planning system. Defra is consulting on mandatory biodiversity net gain for Nationally Significant Infrastructure Projects (NSIPs) and any changes in policy will be reflected in future updates to the National Policy Statements.

Question to the Department for Energy Security & Net Zero:

To ask the Secretary of State for Energy Security and Net Zero, whether he has plans to publish a timeline for introducing a (a) faster and (b) more efficient route to market for Advanced Modular Reactors.

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

The government will be publishing a pathway for privately-led advanced nuclear technologies shortly. The government has also stood up the Nuclear Regulatory Taskforce, which has been asked to identify ways to streamline regulatory processes and frameworks. The Taskforce’s report will be published in Autumn 2025.

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 levels of the UK’s supply chain’s readiness to support the (a) construction and (b) operation of advanced modular reactors; and what steps he is taking to improve domestic capabilities in this area.

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

The Government recently published its Modern Industrial Strategy. The policies announced will ensure that UK is well positioned to build upon existing strengths and seize opportunities provided by new technologies.

This includes providing a pathway for privately-led advanced nuclear technologies. Great British Energy - Nuclear has been tasked with assessing proposals within a new framework, to be published shortly, with the National Wealth Fund exploring potential investment opportunities and the Department for Energy Security and Net Zero exploring revenue support for viable projects.

The Government will also collaborate with the supply chain to mitigate barriers to entry, develop policies that maximise domestic opportunities, and support access to international markets to drive exports.

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 a coordinated shutdown of photovoltaic inverters manufactured by companies headquartered in China on UK power grid stability.

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

Recognising the importance of renewable and smart energy systems for flexibility and decarbonisation, the department is working to ensure the system continues to be secure by design, and protects energy supply, infrastructure and consumers. As part of this work, Government has published two consultation packages which sets out proposals for minimum security and grid stability requirements, including for organisations remotely controlling electrical load.

Maintaining security of energy supplies is a key priority and critical energy operators are required to meet a minimum standard of cyber security and resilience, through the Network and Information Systems Regulations 2018. Distributed and smaller-scale generation are key components of a smart and resilient energy system.

Question to the Department for Energy Security & Net Zero:

To ask the Secretary of State for Energy Security and Net Zero, whether he has had discussions with Sumando Ltd on the nine-month delay in submitting its 30 April 2023 financial statements to Companies House in relation to the development consent decision for Sunnica.

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

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

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 (a) mitigate the effects of market dumping of and (b) reduce strategic dependency on imported photovoltaic inverters from China.

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

Solar goods and services are global commodities, and it is likely that we will continue to require imports in the short to medium term.

The UK has a strong electrical manufacturing sector and there is an opportunity to scale this up through our ambitious Industrial Strategy, which has identified advanced manufacturing and clean energy industries as priority growth sectors, providing benefits for the manufacture of balance of system components, which are essential to enabling solar installations.

The Solar Roadmap also commits government to consider the case to further support companies wishing to scale up production of solar technologies and processes, including inverters.

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 Great British Energy on reducing household energy bills.

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

The Government’s mission to make Britain a clean energy superpower will bring energy security, protect billpayers, create good jobs, and help to protect future generations from the cost of climate breakdown. Delivering clean power by 2030 will protect billpayers from volatile international fossil fuel markets and bring down energy bills for good

Great British Energy is a key part of this plan. It will ensure taxpayers and billpayers reap the benefits of homegrown energy by investing in and developing clean energy projects across the United Kingdom.

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 capacity of the electricity grid to meet projected demand from increased uptake of electric vehicles by 2030.

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

The Government is working closely with Ofgem to ensure that its price control framework supports the necessary investment in the electricity network to deliver our clean energy superpower and growth missions. This includes ensuring that the distribution network has sufficient capacity to meet projected demand from electric vehicles by 2030.

The current price control, RIIO-ED2 (2023–2028), enables forward-looking investment aligned with net zero goals and incorporates uncertainty mechanisms to allow networks to respond flexibly to rising demand. The next price control, RIIO-ED3 (2028–2033), will be informed by Regional Energy Strategic Plans to support more strategic and coordinated investment.

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 with distribution network operators to help reduce grid connection delays for solar projects proposed in Buckinghamshire.

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

We are working closely with Ofgem and the network companies to develop and deliver fundamental reform of the grid connections process. National Energy System Operator’s proposals for connections reform were approved by Ofgem on 15 April. These reforms will release up to 500GW of capacity from the oversubscribed connections queue. This will enable accelerated connections, including for solar projects in Buckinghamshire connecting at both transmission and distribution level, where they are ready and aligned with our strategic needs, as set out in the Clean Power 2030 Action Plan.

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 total area of low-grade agricultural land suitable for ground-mounted solar deployment in Buckinghamshire.

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

The Department currently monitors the geographical location of solar developments through the Renewable Energy Planning Database (REPD). While we currently do not hold data on the type of land used in different counties, there are plans to broaden the scope of this database to provide information on the area and types of agricultural land used by existing solar projects and those in the planning pipeline.

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 provide up-to-date guidance on cumulative impact assessment for solar infrastructure to Buckinghamshire Council.

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

Planning guidance already sets out how decision-makers should consider cumulative impacts where a number of solar projects are deployed in close proximity, and is clear that projects are designed to avoid, mitigate and where necessary compensate for this. Solar farms can usually be easily screened by hedges and other vegetation, and visual impact is carefully considered during the planning process.

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 ensure that home-grown hydrogen fuel cell developers are supported by the (a) Modern Industrial Strategy and (b) Clean Energy Industries sector plan.

Answered by Sarah Jones - Minister of State (Department for Energy Security and Net Zero)

As part of the Modern Industrial Strategy, the Government’s Clean Energy Industries Sector Plan re-iterates our commitment to driving long-term, sustainable growth in hydrogen. It provides deployment certainty with clear timelines for future deployment and clarifies how Government will capitalise on the enormous growth and jobs potential. It includes our ambition to ensure hydrogen benefits from the comprehensive public finance institution support package for clean energy industries including a £1 billion Great British Energy supply chain fund and empowering the National Wealth Fund with £27.8 billion in capital.

Question to the Department for Energy Security & Net Zero:

To ask the Secretary of State for Energy Security and Net Zero, whether he sought further information from (a) Sunnica and (b) its UK registered companies on their finances before making the development consent decision for Sunnica.

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

The full reasons for the Secretary of State’ planning decision on the Sunnica project are set out in the Decision Letter. Given the Secretary of State’s quasi-judicial role in taking such decisions it would not be appropriate to comment further.

Question to the Department for Energy Security & Net Zero:

To ask the Secretary of State for Energy Security and Net Zero, whether (a) he and (b) officials have had discussions with (i) Sumando Ltd and (ii) related stakeholders on Sumando Ltd's exclusion from the organogram of funding Statement No 3 when he made the development consent decision for Sunnica.

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

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

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 monitor the effectiveness of local authority engagement strategies with residents during the planning of solar developments in Buckinghamshire.

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

The Government does not set out or monitor how individual local authorities, including Buckinghamshire, engage residents in the planning of solar developments, in recognition of their autonomy and flexibility to deliver net zero according to each local area’s varying needs and opportunities.

Nationally, Government engages with the public on solar and other low carbon technologies in the Public Attitudes Tracker, a triannual household survey tracking public awareness and attitudes relating to the Department’s policy areas.

The Government is working with GBE to develop the Local Power Plan, to turbocharge the UK’s local and community energy sector. Charles Warren Academy in Milton Keynes was one of the first schools to receive solar panels funded by GBE alongside the Department for Education.

Question to the Department for Energy Security & Net Zero:

To ask the Secretary of State for Energy Security and Net Zero, with reference to his oral contribution of 15 July 2025 during Energy Security and Net Zero Questions, when the Clean Energy Skills Plan will be published; and which industry stakeholders his Department has had discussions with on that plan.

Answered by Sarah Jones - Minister of State (Department for Energy Security and Net Zero)

Later this year, the Department for Energy Security & Net Zero will publish the Clean Energy Workforce Strategy. This will be a first for the UK Government, and will set out how government, industry and trade unions will come together to address skills and workforce challenges to deliver the Clean Energy Superpower Mission, including Clean Power 2030.  The Department has engaged industry and trade unions extensively throughout the development of this Strategy including a number of ministerial-led forums and bilateral meetings between a large range of organisations and the Office for Clean Energy Jobs.

Question to the Department for Energy Security & Net Zero:

To ask the Secretary of State for Energy Security and Net Zero, how many heat pumps have been removed from homes in the last 12 months.

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

Schemes like the Boiler Upgrade Scheme offer a one-off, upfront grant payment to help property owners transition to low carbon heating. The scheme’s independent evaluation follows up with a sample of participants and the interim report published in January, found that 79% of property owners were satisfied with their low carbon heating system overall.

Building regulations on the energy efficiency of buildings restrict the replacement of a heating system with a less efficient or higher emission system. There are currently no data available on heat pump systems which have been removed, including those which have reached the end of their lifecycle.

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 decision making about the return of the BCSSS investment reserve can be made as swiftly as possible.

Answered by Sarah Jones - Minister of State (Department for Energy Security and Net Zero)

I met the BCSSS Trustees on 22 April, 11 June and 22 July and confirmed the Government’s commitment to considering their proposals regarding the reserve and the future of the scheme. DESNZ will now engage HM Treasury with a view to agreeing a way forward on the transfer of the reserve to members.

I am aiming to reach agreement on an outcome that can be implemented later this year which will benefit scheme members.

Question to the Department for Energy Security & Net Zero:

To ask His Majesty's Government whether they will ensure that surplus energy generated by solar panels on roofs of warehouses and other commercial buildings can be exported back to the grid.

Answered by Lord Wilson of Sedgefield - Lord in Waiting (HM Household) (Whip)

Generation from rooftop solar can be exported to the grid provided there is capacity to accommodate it. This may require investment in distribution and/or transmission networks. Ofgem has raised the threshold for generation connection projects requiring a transmission network impact assessment from 1 Megawatt to below 5 Megawatts in England and Wales. This will reduce connection timescales and costs for rooftop solar schemes previously above the threshold. Reform of the transmission connections process will facilitate connections for projects that remain above the threshold, provided they are progressing and align with the Clean Power 2030 Action Plan.

Question to the Department for Energy Security & Net Zero:

To ask His Majesty's Government how the energy stored in battery storage plants will be distributed for use, and whether local communities will be the priority for use of that energy.

Answered by Lord Wilson of Sedgefield - Lord in Waiting (HM Household) (Whip)

Energy from battery storage plants is distributed to consumers in order to maximise benefits to the electricity system overall and depending on where in the network the plant is connected. The Government is considering introducing a mandatory community benefits scheme for low carbon energy infrastructure under which developers would contribute to community funds, directly supporting local priorities and services. The government has sought views on the scope of such a scheme, and how a scheme should be administered and enforced.

Question to the Department for Energy Security & Net Zero:

To ask His Majesty's Government what plans they have to protect those who live close to a battery storage plant from fire risks.

Answered by Lord Wilson of Sedgefield - Lord in Waiting (HM Household) (Whip)

Grid-scale batteries are regulated by the Health and Safety Executive within a robust framework which requires responsible parties to manage risks at every stage of the system’s deployment. Developers are responsible for minimising fire risks and work closely with fire services to develop site emergency response plans.

The Government will consult on including grid-scale batteries in the Environmental Permitting Regulations (EPR). EPR requires battery sites to demonstrate to the Environment Agency that risks are avoided or controlled and provides for ongoing regulatory inspections.

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 with Cabinet colleagues of the potential impact of EPC requirements for commercial properties on trends in the level of empty office accommodation.

Answered by Sarah Jones - Minister of State (Department for Energy Security and Net Zero)

EPC Minimum Energy Efficiency Standards play an important role in reducing bills for businesses, making them more competitive and protecting them from future energy price shocks, as well as encouraging better working places for the health and wellbeing of its occupiers.

The policy has a number of exemptions in place to mitigate against significant costs of compliance. Crucially, buildings will only need to reach the highest EPC band that a cost-effective package of measures can deliver, even if this means that they remain below the minimum standard. Consequently, the costs for building improvements are expected to make up a small proportion of typical commercial rents and are therefore unlikely to distort the office rental market on its own.

We also expect commercial landlords in the office sector will continue to hold valuable assets and evidence suggests cost-effective energy efficiency improvements will help increase the value of those assets

Question to the Department for Energy Security & Net Zero:

To ask the Secretary of State for Energy Security and Net Zero, whether his Department plans to (a) abolish and (b) reform the standing charge.

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

The Government knows that, for many consumers, too much of the burden of the bill is placed on standing charges. We are committed to lowering the cost of standing charges and have worked constructively with the regulator, Ofgem, on this issue.

Firstly, Ofgem have been working to ensure that domestic consumers can choose tariffs with low or no standing charges Ofgem took a further step towards this goal this week, announcing proposals to require suppliers to offer their customers low or no standing charge tariffs from early 2026.

Secondly, Ofgem have been reviewing how ‘fixed’ costs, which tend to be funded through standing charges, should be recovered in the future energy system. This includes whether those fixed costs could be recovered in more progressive ways, and we are working closely with the regulator on this.

Question to the Department for Energy Security & Net Zero:

To ask the Secretary of State for Energy Security and Net Zero, whether his Department plans to introduce requirements for car parking companies to install solar canopies on large parking lots.

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

Outdoor car parks provide potential to deploy solar canopies providing clean electricity, potential for electric vehicle charging and shelter for cars. As such, the government published a Call for Evidence, which closed on the 18^th June, to gather robust evidence from stakeholders across industry, local authorities and other relevant sectors to inform a carefully designed, evidence-based approach to increasing uptake. A Government Response will be published this year.

Question to the Department for Energy Security & Net Zero:

To ask the Secretary of State for Energy Security and Net Zero, how much of the onshore wind pipeline in the Eskdalemuir consultation zone his Department plans to see unlocked in the forthcoming solution to onshore wind development around the Seismic Array.

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

The interference that onshore wind turbines can cause to seismological monitoring stations was a priority area of focus for the Onshore Wind Industry Taskforce. In the recent Onshore Wind Taskforce Strategy my Department committed to working with Scottish Government and the Ministry of Defence to consult on new policy and guidance, aiming to unlock 3-6GW of onshore wind capacity around the Eskdalemuir Seismic Array.

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 Cabinet colleagues on the potential impact of the exclusion zone on the development of wind farms around the Eskdalemuir Seismic Array.

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

The interference that onshore wind turbines can cause to seismological monitoring stations was a priority area of focus for the Onshore Wind Industry Taskforce. In the recent Onshore Wind Taskforce Strategy my Department committed to working with Scottish Government and the Ministry of Defence to consult on new policy and guidance, aiming to unlock 3-6GW of onshore wind capacity around the Eskdalemuir Seismic Array.

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 resilience of energy storage infrastructure co-located with solar energy developments in Buckinghamshire.

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

The Department has made no specific assessment on this. We have outlined our plans for the deployment of battery storage in the Clean Power 2030 Action Plan and will work with industry, NESO and Ofgem to build on those actions through the Low Carbon Flexibility Roadmap announced in the Clean Power Action Plan. This will include actions to enable the deployment of batteries, on their own and co-located with generation.

Question to the Department for Energy Security & Net Zero:

To ask the Secretary of State for Energy Security and Net Zero, for what reason blue carbon habitats are not currently included in environmental impact assessments for offshore developments.

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

Where appropriate, the impacts on the natural environment including coastal zones and the marine environment, are considered in environmental impact assessments for offshore developments as required under the relevant regulations.

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 consistency in his planning decisions on applications for solar farm with proposed generating capacity above 50 MW.

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

Decisions on consent applications for ‘nationally significant’ projects are made in accordance with legislation set out in the Planning Act 2008, and the relevant National Policy Statement made in accordance with that Act. For solar, this is the Renewable Energy National Policy Statement, which sets out how nationally significant solar projects should be assessed.

For solar farms with a generating capacity below the ‘nationally significant’ threshold,

planning decisions are made by Local Planning Authorities in line with the Town and Country Planning Act 1990. The threshold for solar projects is currently 50MW but is increasing to 100MW from 31 December 2025.

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 average time taken for planning decisions for solar farm applications in (a) Buckinghamshire and (b) nationally.

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

Nationally Significant Infrastructure decisions are taken by this department and the majority of solar farm applications have been taken within the statutory deadline, although extensions are occasionally required. This department does not hold information on the time taken for solar application decisions taken by Local Authorities.

Question to the Department for Energy Security & Net Zero:

To ask the Secretary of State for Energy Security and Net Zero, whether his Department has considered the potential merits of applying the same land access arrangements for distribution network operators as currently apply for other utilities.

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

DESNZ published a consultation on consents, land access and rights for electricity network infrastructure on 8 July. It sets out a package of reforms intended to reduce delays to essential works and support the upgrade and maintenance of electricity infrastructure. The proposals include clarifying access rights for both distribution and transmission operators, ensuring they have appropriate powers to access land, including adjacent third-party land, and aligning rights for distribution network operators to install infrastructure in private streets with other utilities, such as telecoms.

Question to the Department for Energy Security & Net Zero:

To ask His Majesty's Government, in relation to recent spending by Great British Energy on solar panels for use by schools and hospitals, what assessment they have made of the merits of (1) sourcing solar panels from manufacturers outside China, and (2) spending money from this scheme on creating solar panel manufacturing capacity in the United Kingdom.

Answered by Lord Wilson of Sedgefield - Lord in Waiting (HM Household) (Whip)

For solar projects, the Department for Education (DfE), the Department for Health & Social Care (DHSC) and their partners are procuring the solar panels in line with strict procurement controls. While these panels could come from anywhere in the world, we know that around 95% of global polysilicon, ingot and wafer production, required for the manufacture of solar panels, happens in China [1].

Whilst China has a long-established strong position in conventional solar, there are emerging opportunities in solar supply chains which the UK can capture by leaning into our strengths as a scientific and innovation superpower. Alongside Great British Energy delivering over £200m investment for local and community energy, we have several other pioneering companies developing the next generation of cutting-edge solar technologies, including perovskite and thin film. In the Solar Roadmap, we have committed to consider the case to further support companies looking to scale up the production of these parts – so that UK companies don’t just generate innovative ideas but build them as well.

^[1]Based on previous estimates from the International Energy Agency (IEA): https://www.iea.org/reports/solar-pv-global-supply-chains/

Question to the Department for Energy Security & Net Zero:

To ask His Majesty's Government what actions they are taking to address international competitiveness in the oil refining sector, and to avoid further job losses, following the closure of Grangemouth Refinery and the insolvency of Lindsey Oil Refinery.

Answered by Lord Wilson of Sedgefield - Lord in Waiting (HM Household) (Whip)

The refining sector is a vital part of the UK’s economy, and the Government is determined to work with industry to ensure UK refineries remain internationally competitive. That is why this Government has announced an urgent review of the methodology for the Energy Intensive Industries Compensation Scheme, helping to assess future coverage for the sector.

We have also invested in carbon capture, usage and storage projects and implemented the Sustainable Aviation Fuel Mandate, enabling the refining sector to maximise the opportunities created by the clean energy transition.

My Honourable Friend Minister Shanks met the refinery sector in June to discuss these issues and will continue to engage with the industry to address long-standing issues.

Question to the Department for Energy Security & Net Zero:

To ask His Majesty's Government what steps they have taken to ensure that Chinese-made solar panels purchased by Great British Energy for use in UK schools and hospitals have not been manufactured by slave labour; whether these purchases conform with section 3(2)(e) of Great British Energy Act 2025; and who is responsible for assessing this.

Answered by Lord Wilson of Sedgefield - Lord in Waiting (HM Household) (Whip)

There are strict procurement controls in place for schools and hospitals to ensure as far as possible any solar panels are free from forced labour.

This includes the Procurement Act which will enable contracting authorities to reject bids and terminate contracts with suppliers which have previously committed an offence under the Modern Slavery Act 2015, or where there is sufficient evidence to suggest that the supplier has engaged in this conduct.

We take this issue extremely seriously and will also be placing reporting commitments around the procurement process on panels as part of the funding agreements.

Through Great British Energy we will help build the supply chains needed to support a new era of clean homegrown power, bringing jobs and investment.

Question to the Department for Energy Security & Net Zero:

To ask His Majesty's Government why the cost of upgrading the electricity grid is estimated at £60 billion in the report Clean Power 2030, published on 5 November 2024 by the National Energy System Operator, and at £80 billion in the Ofgem press release on 1 July about initial investment in energy security; and whether they will update their costing.

Answered by Lord Wilson of Sedgefield - Lord in Waiting (HM Household) (Whip)

The £80bn cost estimate in Ofgem’s Draft Determinations for RIIO ET3, which covers 2026/27 to 2030/31, is not exclusively spending required to deliver the transmission network needed to deliver 2030 Clean Power, but also takes into account wider operational costs such as maintenance of existing assets, and includes some spend beyond 2030. Ofgem and NESO regularly review and update their cost estimates for electricity networks.

Question to the Department for Energy Security & Net Zero:

To ask His Majesty's Government what assessment they have made of the (1) value for money, and (2) environmental impact, of providing grants to householders to install types of air conditioning which are environmentally friendly.

Answered by Lord Wilson of Sedgefield - Lord in Waiting (HM Household) (Whip)

The Warm Homes Plan will reduce energy bills and transform homes to be comfortable and low carbon by accelerating the installation of new technologies like heat pumps. The department is also conducting research to ensure homes are resilient to the future climate by identifying the buildings most vulnerable to extreme heat. This research is informing the adaptation solutions in the Warm Homes Plan which will publish in October.

The department recently consulted on expanding the scope of the Boiler Upgrade Scheme to allow air-to-air heat pumps to receive grant funding. The Government Response will be published in due course. Advantages of air-to-air heat pumps include the ability to provide cooling, dehumidification, and air filtration in addition to space heating.

Question to the Department for Energy Security & Net Zero:

To ask His Majesty's Government what steps they are taking to support the Scottish Government to develop new nuclear power stations.

Answered by Lord Wilson of Sedgefield - Lord in Waiting (HM Household) (Whip)

Planning policy is devolved to the Scottish Government and they have made it clear they oppose the building of new nuclear power stations.

The UK Government works productively with the Scottish Government on a range of energy issues and we would welcome engagement on new nuclear given the growing interest in the potential for projects in Scotland and the opportunity for jobs and skills across the country, should the position on planning change.

Question to the Department for Energy Security & Net Zero:

To ask His Majesty's Government what assessment they have made of threats to national security as a result of importing clean energy industry infrastructure such as wind turbines and solar panels, in particular from China; and what steps they are taking to minimise those risks.

Answered by Lord Wilson of Sedgefield - Lord in Waiting (HM Household) (Whip)

The department is committed to working closely across Government and industry stakeholders to take forward the actions needed to develop supply chains that are resilient, sustainable, innovative and secure. Investment in the energy sector is subject to the highest levels of national security scrutiny – we take a consistent, long-term and strategic approach to managing relations with China and will co-operate where we can, compete where we need to, and challenge where we must.

DESNZ works closely with industry and other government departments to maintain a detailed picture of ownership and foreign involvement in energy infrastructure, including for investors from key manufacturing regions such as China, other Asian countries, and Europe.

Question to the Department for Energy Security & Net Zero:

To ask His Majesty's Government what plans they have to work with Ofgem to publish updated planning and grid connection guidance for digital infrastructure to prevent bottlenecks in the grid connections queue and to ensure that other sectors are not deprioritised in favour of data centres.

Answered by Lord Wilson of Sedgefield - Lord in Waiting (HM Household) (Whip)

As announced in the Industrial Strategy, my department is developing measures to accelerate the connection of high-value strategic demand projects in a wide range of sectors, while continuing to support all users to connect to the grid more quickly through broader grid upgrades.

The Department is also working with Ofgem on its End-to-End Review of the obligations and incentives pertaining to network companies in the delivery of grid connections. This will improve customer communications and ensure high levels of service for all customers. This complements ongoing, fundamental reforms to the connections process that will significantly reduce congestion and bottlenecks.

Question to the Department for Energy Security & Net Zero:

To ask His Majesty's Government what assessment they have made of the barriers faced by charitable organisations, financial or otherwise, when looking to join heat networks; and whether they will provide support to charitable organisations to overcome these barriers.

Answered by Lord Wilson of Sedgefield - Lord in Waiting (HM Household) (Whip)

Charitable organisations use a diverse range of buildings, thus there is no one-size-fits-all solution for how they decarbonise their buildings. In high-density urban areas, heat networks are often the lowest-cost, low-carbon heating solution.

The Government has a number of schemes to support the development and growth of heat networks, including the Green Heat Network Fund, which provides funding to develop new and existing low carbon heat networks across England.

We are working across Government and with the National Wealth Fund to explore further funding opportunities for the heat networks sector that will catalyse more private investment and support more connections.

Question to the Department for Energy Security & Net Zero:

To ask His Majesty's Government what assessment they have made of the national security risks of a strike by unionised energy sector workers; what plans they have to minimise those risks; and what steps they are taking to ensure that clean energy industries are appealing to private sector investors as workers in that industry unionise.

Answered by Lord Wilson of Sedgefield - Lord in Waiting (HM Household) (Whip)

This Government continually assesses risks to national energy security, including from industrial action, as reflected in the National Risk Register. Under the Civil Contingencies Act (2004), critical sectors including energy infrastructure must have in place plans for maintaining key services in the event of significant workplace absences including strikes.

As set out in our Industrial Strategy: Clean Energy Industries Sector Plan, we work in strong partnership with unions, industry, and investors to foster a thriving and skilled workforce, safeguard energy security, and maintaining investor confidence in the UK’s clean energy future.

Question to the Department for Energy Security & Net Zero:

To ask His Majesty's Government what assessment they have made of the financial barriers faced by charitable organisations when looking to change the heating in their buildings from oil and gas systems to renewable systems; and whether they will provide support to charitable organisations to overcome these barriers.

Answered by Lord Wilson of Sedgefield - Lord in Waiting (HM Household) (Whip)

Charities may access various forms of energy efficiency support, including funding for energy-saving upgrades, tailored advice. The Boiler Upgrade Scheme (BUS) continues to provide grants up to £7,500, to encourage property owners to replace existing fossil fuel heating with more efficient, low carbon heating systems for domestic and small non-domestic buildings, including charitable organisations. The maximum capacity for a single system installation under the BUS remains 45kWh.

Question to the Department for Energy Security & Net Zero:

To ask the Secretary of State for Energy Security and Net Zero, what discussions he had with Ofgem prior to the RIIO GD3 interim settlement for the gas network.

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

Ofgem’s RIIO3-GD3 interim settlement outlines allowable investment from the gas transmission and distribution operators to maintain safety and resilience in the gas network between April 2026 and April 2031. My Rt. Hon. Friend the Secretary of State has regular discussions with Ministerial Colleagues on a number of issues.

Similarly, the Secretary of State has regular meetings with Ofgem, as the independent energy regulator. Final RIIO-GD3 determinations, including those relating to investment, health and safety, and customer bills are ultimately for Ofgem to determine.

Question to the Department for Energy Security & Net Zero:

To ask His Majesty's Government what proportion of wind and solar generation was curtailed in each of the past three years, and what the estimated cost of this curtailment was to taxpayers and bill-payers.

Answered by Lord Wilson of Sedgefield - Lord in Waiting (HM Household) (Whip)

The National Energy System Operator (NESO) is responsible for operating Great Britain’s electricity system and managing constraints. Constraint payments are part of Balancing Use of System charges and NESO publishes total balancing costs, which are paid for by energy users and totalled £1.7bn in 2024. Published costs are not split between different types of generators.

Constraints are a natural part of operating an efficient electricity system and constraint payments are used around the world. However, Government is working to reduce constraints and improve energy security by accelerating the building of new electricity network infrastructure to increase capacity on the system.

Question to the Department for Energy Security & Net Zero:

To ask His Majesty's Government how much they have spent to date on advertising, branding and marketing in relation to the establishment of Great British Energy; and what the projected total expenditure is for these activities.

Answered by Lord Wilson of Sedgefield - Lord in Waiting (HM Household) (Whip)

Spend by Great British Energy will be published in the usual way through annual reports and accounts.

Question to the Department for Energy Security & Net Zero:

To ask His Majesty's Government what steps they are taking to prioritise access to electricity grids for port electrification, including in relation to onshore power supply for ferries and cruise ships.

Answered by Lord Wilson of Sedgefield - Lord in Waiting (HM Household) (Whip)

The Department is working closely with Ofgem, the National Energy System Operator, and network companies on fundamental reforms to the connections process. This is expected to release up to 500GW of capacity from the queue enabling quicker connections for many demand projects. This may include acceleration of shore power projects where capacity is released in port locations.

As announced in the Industrial Strategy, my department is also developing measures to accelerate the connection of strategic demand projects in a wide range of sectors, including through a new Connections Accelerator Service, to be launched this year.

Question to the Department for Energy Security & Net Zero:

To ask His Majesty's Government whether they plan to introduce a social energy tariff for community organisations.

Answered by Lord Wilson of Sedgefield - Lord in Waiting (HM Household) (Whip)

The Government believes that our mission to deliver clean power by 2030 is the best way to break our dependence on global fossil fuel markets and protect billpayers permanently.

The creation of Great British Energy will help us to harness clean energy with less reliance on volatile international energy markets and help in our commitment to make Britain a clean energy superpower by 2030.

In the short-term, the Government wants to provide businesses and community organisations with better protection from being locked into unfair and expensive energy contracts, and more redress when they have a complaint. Last year, the Government launched a consultation on introducing regulation of Third-Party Intermediaries (TPIs), such as energy brokers. This is aimed at enhancing consumer protections, particularly for non-domestic consumers. The Government published a summary of consultation responses earlier this month, and a Government response will follow in due course.

Since 19 December 2024, Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs) with fewer than 50 employees have been able to access free support to resolve issues with their energy supplier through the Energy Ombudsman. This means that 99% of British businesses can now access this service with outcomes ranging up to £20,000 in financial awards.

For domestic customers, we recognise that we need to support households struggling with bills whilst we transition to clean power by 2030. This is why we delivered the Warm Home Discount to around 3 million eligible low-income households last winter. On 19 June we announced that we are expanding the Warm Home Discount to around an additional 2.7 million households. This means that from next winter, around 6 million low-income households will receive the £150 support to help with their energy bill costs.

Question to the Department for Energy Security & Net Zero:

To ask His Majesty's Government what support will be available to schools to decarbonise following the closure of the Public Sector Decarbonisation Scheme.

Answered by Lord Wilson of Sedgefield - Lord in Waiting (HM Household) (Whip)

More than £1 billion in public sector decarbonisation funding is still being invested through the Public Sector Decarbonisation Scheme (PSDS) and Integrated Settlements with Greater Manchester and West Midlands Combined Authorities through to 2028. Additionally, the government and Great British Energy committed approximately £80 million to support around 200 schools in England to install rooftop solar panels and complementary technologies. Each school on average could save up to an estimated £25 000 per year.

11 schools have already installed solar panels which is estimated to save £175 000 on their total energy bills. Great British Energy also awarded £10 million in grant funding to mayoral strategic authorities to roll out clean energy projects at the centre of communities. A significant proportion of this will be used for solar panels for schools across England.

Question to the Department for Energy Security & Net Zero:

To ask His Majesty's Government what assessment they have made of decoupling electricity and gas prices.

Answered by Lord Wilson of Sedgefield - Lord in Waiting (HM Household) (Whip)

As unabated gas generation is displaced and transitions to a reserve role, wholesale electricity prices will increasingly decouple from the price of gas. Accelerating the deployment of renewable generation, as we are through our Clean Power 2030 Mission, will reduce the frequency with which gas sets the marginal price, helping to rapidly decouple electricity from gas prices without the need for more complex arrangements. This will in turn reduce consumer exposure to volatile international gas prices.

Question to the Department for Energy Security & Net Zero:

To ask His Majesty's Government what assessment they have made of the UK's current energy security in the light of increasing reliance on intermittent renewable sources such as wind and solar; and what steps are being taken to ensure a resilient and reliable electricity grid.

Answered by Lord Wilson of Sedgefield - Lord in Waiting (HM Household) (Whip)

Great Britain is expected to have sufficient supplies of electricity and gas to meet consumers’ demands over the short and long-term (Statutory Security of Supply Report 2024). The UK’s diverse power mix reduces dependence on one generation source, ensuring security of supply in a range of conditions. By complementing renewables with flexible capacity, we ensure we can meet demand no matter the weather.

Through the Clean Power 2030 Action Plan, we have taken significant steps to ensuring a resilient electricity grid, including reforming grid connections, streamlining the planning system, and supporting investment in supply chains and green jobs.

Question to the Department for Energy Security & Net Zero:

To ask His Majesty's Government what assessment they have made of the impact of increased use of (1) heat pumps, and (2) electric cars, on electricity demand; and whether they anticipate that this will result in (a) increased prices for consumers, and (b) increased use of gas-fired power stations, or importation of electricity.

Answered by Lord Wilson of Sedgefield - Lord in Waiting (HM Household) (Whip)

As part of their advice on delivering Clean Power 2030*, the National Energy System Operator found that electricity demand growth of approximately 11% by 2030 would be required to electrify transport, heat and industry at the pace required to meet the Nationally Determined Contribution emissions target for 2030. This advice also found that overall costs to consumers would not increase from the shift to a clean power system whilst unabated gas should provide less than 5% of Great Britain’s generation in a typical weather year.

*Clean Power 2030 | National Energy System Operator

Question to the Department for Energy Security & Net Zero:

To ask His Majesty's Government what assessment they have made of the National Energy System Operator’s estimate that network delays could add £4.2 billion to consumer energy bills by 2030; and what steps they are taking to minimise these costs to consumers.

Answered by Lord Wilson of Sedgefield - Lord in Waiting (HM Household) (Whip)

Upgrading and expanding the electricity network is critical to the government’s mission of making Britain a Clean Energy Superpower. NESO analysis suggests that bringing forward critical transmission network projects and avoiding delays to wider network build could deliver savings of approximately £4bn in 2030 by reducing constraint costs. That is why we are taking bold steps to accelerate infrastructure build, speed up planning, and reform grid connections.

Over the past year alone, we’ve delivered the most significant investment in clean, homegrown energy in British history, laying the foundations for a clean, secure future energy system that protects bill payers.

Question to the Department for Energy Security & Net Zero:

To ask His Majesty's Government whether they have commissioned or will publish a detailed feasibility assessment of the Clean Power 2030 target, including projected generation capacity, system balancing requirements, and potential risks to energy affordability and security.

Answered by Lord Wilson of Sedgefield - Lord in Waiting (HM Household) (Whip)

On 23 August 2024, the Government commissioned the National Energy System Operator (NESO) to provide practical advice on achieving a zero-carbon electricity system by 2030. NESO consulted publicly in September and October 2024 on its approach and assumptions and published its advice in November 2024. We accepted independent advice from the National Energy System Operator (NESO), on the energy infrastructure required to deliver Clean Power 2030. Last December, we launched our Clean Power 2030 Action Plan which set out a detailed plan for achieving the target of clean power by 2030.

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 (a) Ofgem and (b) the Minister for the Cabinet Office on the level of customer bills, in the context of the development of the RIIO GD3 interim settlement for the gas network.

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

Ofgem’s RIIO3-GD3 interim settlement outlines allowable investment from the gas transmission and distribution operators to maintain safety and resilience in the gas network between April 2026 and April 2031. My Rt. Hon. Friend the Secretary of State has regular discussions with Ministerial Colleagues on a number of issues.

Similarly, the Secretary of State has regular meetings with Ofgem, as the independent energy regulator. Final RIIO-GD3 determinations, including those relating to investment, health and safety, and customer bills are ultimately for Ofgem to determine.

Question to the Department for Energy Security & Net Zero:

To ask His Majesty's Government how small businesses will be included in the Clean Energy Industries Sector Plan, published on 23 June, and what mechanisms will be available for local, non-corporate organisations to build onshore wind turbines and solar farms, such as the Orkney Community Wind Farms.

Answered by Lord Wilson of Sedgefield - Lord in Waiting (HM Household) (Whip)

The Clean Energy Industries Sector Plan, launched on 23 June 2025 under the UK’s Modern Industrial Strategy, targets regional growth and aims to double clean energy investment to over £30 billion a year by 2035, with small businesses playing a key role. The Plan proposes streamlining planning, improving grid access, and supporting innovation to benefit SMEs and local firms.

Additionally, Great British Energy will boost investment in local and community energy projects, ensuring communities play a central role in the UK’s clean energy transition. For 2025/26, we have set up £5 million in grant funding through the Great British Energy Community Fund, which is available to community energy groups to help communities develop their own clean energy projects, including solar-powered generation and onshore wind.

Question to the Department for Energy Security & Net Zero:

To ask His Majesty's Government what estimate they have made of the costs associated with manufacturing infrastructure for clean energy industries in the UK, and what assessment they have made of the impact those costs have on energy prices for households and industries in the short and long term.

Answered by Lord Wilson of Sedgefield - Lord in Waiting (HM Household) (Whip)

Our Clean Power Action Plan will deliver Clean Power by 2030, with an expected £40bn of investment on average per year our to 2030. Government is also determined to secure associated growth and resilience opportunities alongside our world-leading deployment plans, by increasing domestic manufacturing in Clean Energy Industries and associated innovation and services. Clean Energy Industries have been prioritised as a frontier industry in the Industrial Strategy to enable us to capture these opportunities. This sets out a comprehensive policy package to secure private investment in clean energy manufacturing. These decisions lay the foundations for a future energy system that will grow the economy for local communities and real people by securing and creating new quality jobs and protecting bill payers.

Question to the Department for Energy Security & Net Zero:

To ask His Majesty's Government what steps they will take to ensure that the carbon capture projects in Aberdeenshire and the Humber are successful.

Answered by Lord Wilson of Sedgefield - Lord in Waiting (HM Household) (Whip)

The government has announced its support for the Acorn (Scotland) and Viking (Humber) clusters and is providing the development funding to advance their delivery. A final investment decision (FID) will be taken later this Parliament, subject to project readiness and affordability.

The government has been working with clusters to understand what they need to keep them progressing to FID and are confident the Spending Review outcome will enable us to continue collaborating on that.

As agreed with Acorn, the government has established a ministerial-led forum, where UK and Scottish governments, regulators and industry representatives come together on a regular basis to drive forward momentum for the Scottish cluster. The forum convened for the first time on 22/07/25 and was chaired by the Minister for Industry.

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