Question to the Department for Energy Security & Net Zero:

To ask the Secretary of State for Energy Security and Net Zero, in 1990, what was the contribution in parts per million of CO2 emissions from the UK into the atmosphere (a) gross of sequestration and (b) net of sequestration; and what was the contribution for 2024.

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

UK net territorial CO2 emissions were 603.3 million tonnes in 1990 and provisionally estimated at 290.4 million tonnes in 2024.

Source: DESNZ, provisional 2024 UK net territorial greenhouse gas emissions statistics.

CO2 is calculated in terms of net emissions, which means total emissions minus total removals from the atmosphere. Therefore, it is not possible to report gross CO2 emissions.

Question to the Department for Energy Security & Net Zero:

To ask the Secretary of State for Energy Security and Net Zero, what the (a) scope and (b) expected timetable for Great British Energy – Nuclear’s assessment of Scotland’s capability for new nuclear power stations.

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

Ministers have asked GBE-N to assess Scotland’s potential for new nuclear power, including around areas that have previously hosted nuclear stations.

New nuclear projects can deliver millions of pounds of investment and thousands of high-quality jobs to a region.

GBE-N will advise UK Ministers on the potential for new nuclear development in Scotland in due course.

Question to the Department for Energy Security & Net Zero:

To ask the Secretary of State for Energy Security and Net Zero, how many people were employed by the (a) Office of Gas and Electricity Market, (b) Office for Nuclear Regulation and (c) Nuclear Decommissioning Authority in each year since 2005.

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

The Office of Gas and Electricity Markets (Ofgem) and NDA are directly accountable to Parliament. The information requested is published in Ofgem’s and NDA's annual report and accounts, which are laid before the House and publicly available

Whilst ONR’s government sponsor is DWP, we can confirm that the information requested can be found in ONR’s annual report and accounts, which is laid in Parliament. The first date that their annual report and accounts is available from is 2014-15 as ONR was not made a public corporation until 2013 under the Energy Act of that year.

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 prioritise the development of small modular reactors as load following sources.

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

The next generation of nuclear, including small modular reactors (SMR), offers new possibilities including faster deployment, lower capital costs, and greater flexibility.

Whilst nuclear energy has a unique role to play in delivering stable, low carbon baseload energy, SMRs may be able to serve the electricity grid more flexibly than traditional nuclear, as well as unlock a range of additional applications in energy sectors beyond grid electricity.

Question to the Department for Energy Security & Net Zero:

To ask the Secretary of State for Energy Security and Net Zero, what the annual budget was for the (a) Office of Gas and Electricity Markets, (b) Office for Nuclear Regulation and (c) Nuclear Decommissioning Authority in each year since 2005.

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

The Office of Gas and Electricity Markets (Ofgem) and NDA are directly accountable to Parliament. The information requested is published in Ofgem’s and NDA's annual report and accounts, which are laid before the House and publicly available

Whilst ONR’s government sponsor is DWP, we can confirm that the information requested can be found in ONR’s annual report and accounts, which is laid in Parliament. The first date that their annual report and accounts is available from is 2014-15 as ONR was not made a public corporation until 2013 under the Energy Act of that year.

Question to the Department for Energy Security & Net Zero:

To ask the Secretary of State for Energy Security and Net Zero, what quantity of plutonium was added to the civil plutonium stockpile in the last year.

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

The UK is no longer adding to the inventory of separated civil plutonium through reprocessing spent fuel. The Thermal Oxide Reprocessing Plant (THORP) at Sellafield is now closed, having ceased reprocessing operations in November 2018 and the Magnox reprocessing facility ceased reprocessing operations in 2022.

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 made an economic assessment of the potential impact of the Nuclear Decommissioning Authority estate's current voluntary exit scheme on the regional economy in (a) Wales (b) the North West (c) Scotland and (d) the South West.

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

The NDA remains committed to supporting communities in each of these areas to build a resilient, inclusive future by investing in skills, wellbeing, infrastructure, and economic diversification that create lasting opportunities beyond decommissioning.

The voluntary exit schemes are part of NDA’s commitment to delivering maximum value for public money while maintaining focus on its mission and supporting its people through change. The NDA is actively exploring opportunities to improve how it operates - this includes corporate restructuring, greater sharing of services, and enhanced efficiencies across enabling functions.

The outcome of the recent SR Settlement reflects the government’s recognition of the NDA’s critical role in safeguarding the UK’s nuclear legacy. This funding ensures safe and secure decommissioning while driving efficiencies and maximising the benefits of working as a group.

Question to the Department for Energy Security & Net Zero:

To ask the Secretary of State for Energy Security and Net Zero, what quantities of unprocessed plutonium remain within discharged irradiated spent nuclear fuel at (a) nuclear reactor sites and (b) Sellafield.

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

Plutonium is a by-product of nuclear fission, and it is present in small quantities in spent irradiated fuel. However, the quantities would vary based on the fuel and reactor type.

The Office for Nuclear Regulation publishes annual figures on estimated amounts of plutonium contained in spent civil reactor fuel in the UK. The most recently published data can be found at the following link: 2023 annual figures for holdings of civil unirradiated plutonium | Office for Nuclear Regulation

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 assessed the potential impact of the Nuclear Decommissioning Authority estate's current voluntary exit scheme on the achievement of that organisation's mission.

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

The outcome of the recent Spending Review settlement reflects the government’s recognition of the NDA’s critical role in safeguarding the UK’s nuclear legacy. This funding will enable the NDA to continue to perform its core mission, ensuring safe and secure decommissioning while driving efficiencies and maximising the benefits of working as a group.

The voluntary exit schemes are part of NDA’s commitment to delivering maximum value for public money while maintaining focus on its mission and supporting its people through change. The NDA is actively exploring opportunities to improve how it operates - this includes corporate restructuring, greater sharing of services, and enhanced efficiencies across enabling functions.

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 small modular reactor projects on (a) long-term waste management and (b) decommissioning.

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

Under the Energy Act 2008, prospective operators of nuclear power stations providing power directly to the grid are required to have a Funded Decommissioning Programme (FDP), making arrangements to cover the full costs of decommissioning and their full share of waste management and disposal costs, approved by the Secretary of State before nuclear-related construction can begin, and to then comply with that programme thereafter.

Based on current proposals for small modular reactors, the government anticipates that waste from such projects would be largely similar in nature to the current operating fleet, with low level waste disposable in existing facilities, while more hazardous waste would be stored pending disposal in a geological disposal facility when it becomes available.

Question to the Department for Energy Security & Net Zero:

To ask the Secretary of State for Energy Security and Net Zero, what the current volume is of the civil plutonium stockpile in tonnes.

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

As of 31 December 2023, the total holding of separated civil plutonium in the UK was 140.9 tonnes.

The Office for Nuclear Regulation publishes annual figures on the UK's separated plutonium inventory. The most recently published data can be found at the following link: 2023 annual figures for holdings of civil unirradiated plutonium | Office for Nuclear Regulation

Question to the Department for Energy Security & Net Zero:

To ask the Secretary of State for Energy Security and Net Zero, what is the estimated cost to the public purse of the current voluntary exit scheme at the Nuclear Decommissioning Authority's estate.

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

The cost of the voluntary exit schemes across the NDA group will vary according to the level of exits mutually agreed between employers and members of staff.

Question to the Department for Energy Security & Net Zero:

To ask the Secretary of State for Energy Security and Net Zero, what steps the Government plans to take to ensure parity between the Investment Reserve Fund to the Mineworkers’ Pension Scheme and the British Coal Superannuation Scheme.

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

The Department is engaging with HM Treasury with a view to agreeing a way forward on the transfer of the reserve to members.

The Government is 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 the Secretary of State for Energy Security and Net Zero, how many (a) single sex and (b) gender neutral bathroom facilities his Department provides in its premises.

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

The Department is a customer of the Government Property Agency in its office locations, and does not hold a record of the number of single-sex or gender-neutral bathroom facilities provided there.

Question to the Department for Energy Security & Net Zero:

To ask the Secretary of State for Energy Security and Net Zero, what his expected timetable is for when the Norwich to Tilbury Great Grid upgrade will be fully operational.

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

National Grid Electricity Transmission has now submitted its Development Consent Order application to the Planning Inspectorate for consideration. Government does not comment on the merits of live planning applications, which will be subject to rigorous, independent assessment and advice by the Examining Authority, to inform a final Ministerial decision.

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 31 October 2025 to Question 84891 on Fuel Poverty: Ely and East Cambridgeshire, when he plans to publish regional fuel poverty figures for Ely and East Cambridgeshire constituency for 2024.

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

Subregional fuel poverty statistics are normally published annually in April. The date for the next publication in 2026 will be pre-announced in line with the standards for official statistics. These statistics will provide data for 2024 for regions, local authorities, parliamentary constituencies, and Lower Super Output Areas.

Question to the Department for Energy Security & Net Zero:

To ask the Secretary of State for Energy Security and Net Zero, whether the UK Hydrogen Strategy will consider the strategic potential of Liquid Organic Hydrogen Carriers.

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

Government continues to consider a range of potential hydrogen carriers, including Liquid Organic Hydrogen Carriers (LOHCs), and their role in the transport, storage and trade of hydrogen. While we cannot comment on the contents of the Hydrogen Strategy ahead of its publication, we welcome further evidence and engagement from stakeholders on the strategic potential of LOHCs.

Question to the Department for Energy Security & Net Zero:

To ask the Secretary of State for Energy Security and Net Zero, how much (a) their Department and (b) its arm’s length bodies have spent on (i) installing electric vehicle charging facilities and (ii) purchasing electric vehicles since 4 July 2024; and what estimate their Department has made of the difference in capital cost between (A) the electric vehicles purchased by their Department and (B) comparable (1) petrol and (2) diesel models.

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

The Department occupies GPA and HMRC estate and therefore has not purchased any electric vehicle charging points at its sites or purchased any electric vehicles. Data for arms-length-bodies is not held centrally.

Question to the Department for Energy Security & Net Zero:

To ask the Secretary of State for Energy Security and Net Zero, when his Department last made an assessment of the effectiveness of the (a) planning practice guidance and (b) other aspects of the safety framework for grid-scale batteries.

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

In August 2023, the government updated its Planning Practice Guidance to encourage battery storage developers to consult Local Fire and Rescue Services (FRSs) before submitting applications and for planning authorities to involve FRSs during public consultation. The guidance also advises authorities to refer to National Fire Chiefs Council recommendations. The government has committed to updating planning practice guidance on renewable and low carbon energy development.

The government monitors the safety framework for grid-scale batteries closely. In October, I hosted a roundtable discussion with regulators including the Health and Safety Executive and Environment Agency on the safety framework. My department works closely with regulators through the industry-led Health and Safety Governance Group to ensure that the framework remains robust and future proofed.

Question to the Department for Energy Security & Net Zero:

To ask the Secretary of State for Energy Security and Net Zero, when he expects to publish the results of the Heat Network Efficiency Scheme Round 10.

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

Applications for Round 10 of the Heat Network Efficiency Scheme closed on 19 September 2025 and are currently being assessed and scored against the scheme’s standard criteria. Details of the outcome of the funding round are expected to be published in Spring 2026.

Question to the Department for Energy Security & Net Zero:

To ask the Secretary of State for Energy Security and Net Zero, what comparative assessment his Department has made of the costs of (a) Liquid Organic Hydrogen Carriers and (b) geological storage for hydrogen in the UK.

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

Government continues to develop its evidence base on the costs of hydrogen storage and consider the potential role of using hydrogen storage across the hydrogen value chain. The previous Government’s Hydrogen Transport and Storage Cost Report (2023) includes a comparative assessment of the expected levelised cost of above ground and geological storage. The International Energy Agency’s Global Hydrogen Review (2023) includes an assessment of the potential levelised cost of Liquid Organic Hydrogen Carriers used for international trade.

Question to the Department for Energy Security & Net Zero:

To ask the Secretary of State for Energy Security and Net Zero, if his Department plans to amend its Hydrogen Storage Business Model to include Liquid Organic Hydrogen Carrier storage.

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

Whilst chemical storage technologies such as liquid organic hydrogen carriers may have a role to play, such as for users with limited access to large-scale storage, there are no plans to include this type of storage in the initial allocation of the storage business model.

The business model focus on large-scale geological storage is because we consider this type of storage essential to establishing the UK’s first regional hydrogen network as it can provide greater storage capacity and best support energy security. This type of storage is unlikely to be built without government support.

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 plans to take to support the expansion of residential solar panel installations.

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

The Government continues to support the installation of rooftop solar PV in various ways, for example through the Smart Export Guarantee, which enables households with solar panels to receive payment for excess electricity that is sold back to the grid.

We are investing £13.2bn in the Warm Homes Plan to help households take up measures like solar panels, heat pumps, batteries and insulation.

Additionally, the Government will publish the Future Homes Standard in the coming months which will ensure solar panels are installed on the vast majority of new build homes.

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 support businesses to invest in (a) Liquid Organic Hydrogen Carriers and (b) other chemical hydrogen storage, including revenue certainty.

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

Liquid Organic Hydrogen Carriers, and other chemical hydrogen storage, is a nascent technology that the Government has previously supported through the Net Zero Innovation Portfolio.

As the Government considers geological storage to be the most strategic value to the hydrogen economy in the near-term, this will be the focus of the Hydrogen Storage Business Model. The Government will however continue to review technological developments and in the long-term, a mix of storage technologies with complementary characteristics may be required to support the development of the hydrogen economy.

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 merits of Liquid Organic Hydrogen Carrier conversion projects being eligible for Net Zero Hydrogen Fund grant funding.

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

The Net Zero Hydrogen Fund was designed to bring forward the first UK low carbon hydrogen production projects, and was not intended to support other parts of the hydrogen value chain, such as hydrogen carriers. It made its final funding allocations in 2023.

Question to the Department for Energy Security & Net Zero:

To ask the Secretary of State for Energy Security and Net Zero, whether he plans to support the development of new hydroelectric projects in the North West.

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

Officials continue to engage with the British Hydropower Association regarding the future role of the UK’s remaining small-scale hydropower resource, estimated to be a maximum technical potential of around 1.5GW, in supporting the UK energy system. This includes consideration of opportunities in regions such as the North West.

Furthermore, the Smart Export Guarantee, which came into force on 1 January 2020, requires major electricity suppliers to offer a tariff for electricity exported by small low-carbon generators, including small-scale hydro.

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 planning restrictions on noise levels for heat pumps on installation of those pumps.

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

Research found that noise complaints from air source heat pumps are rare and heat pumps are perceived as being very quiet (Air source heat pump noise emissions, planning guidance and regulations - GOV.UK).

In 2025 the Government amended the Permitted Development Right for air source heat pumps in England, to give households greater flexibility to install an air source heat pump without needing to submit a planning application, while retaining the sound limit. Subsequently, some installers have reported significant reductions in installations requiring planning applications.

The Government continues to explore how to streamline the planning process for low carbon heating.

Question to the Department for Energy Security & Net Zero:

To ask the Secretary of State for Energy Security and Net Zero, what progress his Department has made on (a) agreeing a way forward on the British Coal Staff Superannuation Scheme and (b) considering the transfer of its investment reserve to its members.

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

The Department is engaging with HM Treasury with a view to agreeing a way forward on the transfer of the reserve to members.

The Government is 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 the Secretary of State for Energy Security and Net Zero, what assessment he has made of the potential economic merits to Nuneaton constituency of returning the British Coal Staff Superannuation Scheme Investment Reserve to members.

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

As at 30 October 2024, there were 171 members of the British Coal Staff Superannuation Scheme in Nuneaton. Any transfer of the reserve would be used to enhance member benefits.

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 returning the British Coal Staff Superannuation Scheme Investment Reserve to members on the Welsh economy.

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

As at 30 October 2024, there were 3,650 members of the British Coal Staff Superannuation Scheme in Wales. Any transfer of the reserve would be used to enhance member benefits.

Question to the Department for Energy Security & Net Zero:

To ask the Secretary of State for Energy Security and Net Zero, when he expects to publish the outcome of the Treasury’s review into the British Coal Staff Superannuation Scheme Investment Reserve; and if he will ensure that Members of Parliament are informed ahead of the Budget.

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

The Department is engaging with HM Treasury with a view to agreeing a way forward on the transfer of the reserve to members.

The Government is 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 the Secretary of State for Energy Security and Net Zero, whether (a) he and (b) the Chief Secretary to the Treasury have held recent meetings with representatives of the British Coal Staff Superannuation Scheme on the future of the Investment Reserve.

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

I met the Trustees on 12 November 2025 to discuss the British Coal Staff Superannuation Scheme and the proposed transfer of the reserve.

Question to the Department for Energy Security & Net Zero:

To ask the Secretary of State for Energy Security and Net Zero, to what extent (a) uranium fuel used at Sizewell B and (b) Britain’s nuclear energy supply chain relies on imports from (i) Rosatom and (ii) its subsidiaries; and what steps he is taking to ensure that sanctions placed on Rosatom are enforced in relation to UK nuclear power stations.

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

The procurement of nuclear fuel, including uranium and enrichment services, is a commercial matter for reactor operators. The Government works closely with these operators to ensure a secure and resilient supply for the UK fleet but does not routinely collect information relating to any fuel contracts held by UK operators. This information is commercially sensitive, and disclosure would be at the discretion of the operator.

The Government is committed to removing Russian nuclear fuel from UK supply chains by the end of 2028. All current and future reactor operators must comply with UK legal obligations, including any sanctions or trade measures in place against Russia.

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 in recognising the role of renewable liquid fuels in decarbonising off-gas-grid households.

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

As sustainable biomass is a limited resource, the government expects it to be prioritised where there are limited alternatives for decarbonisation. Renewable liquid heating fuels (RLHFs) are also more expensive to use than other heating solutions.

However, the government recognises that RLHFs could play a limited role in decarbonising off-gas grid homes. Before taking decisions on whether to support the use of RLHFs, the government would require stronger evidence on their affordability for consumers, and the availability of sustainable feedstock.

Question to the Department for Energy Security & Net Zero:

To ask the Secretary of State for Energy Security and Net Zero, if he will make an assessment of the expected financial impact on families of the Warm Homes Discount this winter.

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

The Government recognises 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 this winter, around 6 million low-income households will receive the £150 support to help with their energy bills.

Question to the Department for Energy Security & Net Zero:

To ask the Secretary of State for Energy Security and Net Zero, what his planned timetable is to (a) reform the EPC system and (b) introduce a new Home Energy Model in 2026.

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

The government is working to reform EPCs so that they support our key objectives of achieving Clean Power by 2030 and accelerating to Net Zero. The government expects to introduce changes to EPCs metrics in 2026.

The Home Energy Model (HEM) will replace the current Standard Assessment Procedure (SAP) as the methodology underpinning EPCs and building regulations, and is planned to be implemented first alongside the Future Homes Standard.

Question to the Department for Energy Security & Net Zero:

To ask the Secretary of State for Energy Security and Net Zero, what recent discussions he has had with the Chancellor of the Exchequer on the release of the investment reserve fund of the British Coal Staff Superannuation Scheme.

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

Discussions continue with a view to reaching 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 the Secretary of State for Energy Security and Net Zero, whether he plans to continue financial support for the Tropical Forests Forever Facility.

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

I refer the Rt Hon Member to the answer given on 11 November to my hon Friend the Member for Edmonton and Winchmore Hill (Kate Osamor) to Question UIN 87351.

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 economic benefits to North Durham constituency of returning the British Coal Staff Superannuation Scheme Investment Reserve to members.

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

As at 30 October 2024, there were 222 members of the British Coal Staff Superannuation Scheme in North Durham. Any transfer of the reserve would be used to enhance member benefits.

Question to the Department for Energy Security & Net Zero:

To ask the Secretary of State for Energy Security and Net Zero, if he will take steps to ensure that the British Coal Staff Superannuation Scheme’s Investment Reserve is returned to members before the Autumn Budget 2025.

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

The Government is 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 the Secretary of State for Energy Security and Net Zero, pursuant to the Answer of 27 June 2025 to Question 61226 on Department for Energy Security and Net Zero: Public Expenditure, how many lines of activity in his Department were considered as part of the zero based review.

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

The Zero Based Review covered all of RDEL spending which encompassed 75 lines of activity.

Question to the Department for Energy Security & Net Zero:

To ask His Majesty's Government what lessons they have taken from the report by the Poverty and Environment Trust, Overwhelmed and Oversubscribed, published in August; and what is the timetable for bringing forward legislation to establish local supply rights for community energy schemes.

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

This Government is hugely ambitious about the role that local energy will play in achieving our mission to make Britain a clean energy superpower.

Officials read the report with interest and thank the Poverty and Environment Trust for their work on it.

Alongside delivering the 2025/26 Great British Energy Community Fund, Great British Energy is expected to work closely with Community Energy Groups, providing commercial, technical and project-planning assistance to increase their capability and capacity to build a pipeline of successful projects in their local areas, in addition to feasibility funding support.

We recognise the requests to take steps to better enable local energy markets and trading to lower bills, support renewables and increase the resilience of the electricity networks. The Department is currently investigating barriers to local supply, and is working with Ofgem, Great British Energy and relevant stakeholders to find solutions that work in the best interests of local generators and consumers.

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 Department's policy paper entitled Clean energy jobs plan, published on 19 October 2025, what steps his Department is taking to support the development of sustainable aviation fuel production at the Grangemouth industrial cluster.

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

The UK Government is working closely with the Scottish Government on options for investment in Grangemouth supported by the Office for Investment and Scottish Enterprise. This is backed by £200 million from the National Wealth Fund for co-investment with the private sector, so far we have received over 100 enquiries.

In line with the Clean Energy Jobs Plan, the Grangemouth Training Guarantee will support the transition for refinery workers into in-demand industries including into clean energy sectors and future project at Grangemouth.

The Department for Transport is supporting the UK sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) industry through the SAF mandate, providing revenue certainty for SAF producers and the £63 million Advanced Fuels Fund available for SAF producers.

Together these measures will give investors confidence to support commercial scale production of SAF in the UK, creating green jobs and developing skills.

Question to the Department for Energy Security & Net Zero:

To ask the Secretary of State for Energy Security and Net Zero, whether the Eskdalemuir Working Group will prioritise (a) the maintenance of national security and (b) international defence obligations when considering any new (i) regime and (ii) methodology for measuring seismic interference within the safety zone around the Eskdalemuir Seismological Array.

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

We recognise and are aware of the interference that onshore wind turbines can cause to seismological monitoring stations, and the subsequent safeguarding concerns that operators of seismological arrays can have. We are working closely with the Ministry of Defence to bring forward a resolution to this issue, via the Eskdalemuir Working Group. We are clear that the Eskdalemuir Seismic Array is a key piece of defence infrastructure that is part of international monitoring networks and that any updated approach to managing onshore wind deployment near the Array will not compromise its detection capabilities.

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 carried out an assessment of the potential impact of the Nuclear Decommissioning Authority estate's voluntary exit scheme on the (a) delivery of objectives and (b) trends in the level of operating costs at the former Trawsfynydd nuclear power station.

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

The Nuclear Decommissioning Authority (NDA) remains focused on delivering its statutory mission to keep former nuclear sites safe and secure while progressing decommissioning and managing waste. To achieve this efficiently, the NDA has introduced voluntary exit schemes as part of wider organisational restructuring and cost management measures. These schemes are designed to ensure resources are directed to front-line hazard reduction and decommissioning, while maintaining safe operations at all sites, including Trawsfynydd.

The NDA continues to monitor delivery against objectives and operating costs as part of its normal governance processes, alongside its commitment to supporting people and communities through investment in skills and economic diversification.

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 the Group Chief Executive Officer of the Nuclear Decommissioning Authority on the implementation of that organisation's voluntary exit scheme before it was introduced; and whether he approved the implementation of the voluntary exit scheme.

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 in arrears on GOV.UK.

As part of this approach, the NDA has introduced voluntary exit schemes across its group to support organisational restructuring and create efficiencies. All NDA MAVE schemes received the appropriate Government approval.

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 scientific evidence is used to support net zero policies.

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

Our approach is founded on the bedrock of the best scientific evidence which says clearly that ambitious action to reduce emissions is essential to limiting global warming and protecting lives and livelihoods.

That is why we supported the decision of Theresa May to put net zero by 2050 into law in 2019, a decision which is not simply right for climate but good for jobs and energy security.

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 Ofgem on reforming the energy market.

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

For too long consumers have been let down by a broken energy market, with sky-high bills and poor customer service during a cost-of-living crisis.

That’s why we’re reforming Ofgem, providing it with the powers it needs to protect consumers and ensuring it’s a strong champion for families across the country.

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 clean energy industries on the economy of Hartlepool.

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

Clean energy is a once-in-a-generation opportunity to deliver economic security for workers in every part of the country.

Our Clean Energy Jobs Plan showed how by 2030 we could create over 400k good new clean energy jobs across the country, including up to 15k direct roles in the North East. Hartlepool will be a key driver for the region, we recently announced plans X-Energy and Centrica’s have announced proposed advanced modular reactors to create up to 2,500 good, skilled jobs in the town. Alongside wider roles in the region supporting the East Coast Cluster and Viking CCUS which could support tens of thousands of jobs across the region.

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 reduce carbon emissions from peatland.

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

England’s peatlands are our largest terrestrial carbon store. By 2030, we will invest £85 million to restore and manage peatlands. We are committed to restoring approximately 280,000 hectares of peat by 2050.

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 transparency of fuel prices at petrol stations.

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

The government is launching Fuel Finder, an open data scheme to increase fuel price transparency, drive up competition, drive down prices, and help drivers find the best deal. This is real action to help tackle the cost of living.

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 reduce electricity costs.

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

Our mission for clean power is the single best way to bring down bills for good.

Families have been let down by successive Tory governments who left our energy system exposed. We’re determined to change that.

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 a separate (a) price and (b) allocation mechanism for renewable baseload generation within future Contracts for Difference auction rounds.

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

Allocation Round 7 is currently in progress with results expected early in the new year. We assess the design of each allocation round ahead of it opening. We will publish details relating to the next allocation round 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 his Department's press release entitled Golden age of nuclear delivers UK-US deal on energy security, published on 15 September 2025, what estimate his Department has made of the cost, including (a) new rail infrastructure and (b) armed security cost of transporting nuclear fuel to and from the proposed nuclear power stations.

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

In line with the regulator’s outcome-focused approach to security, each licensed operator must submit a security plan for approval by the ONR that ensures risks are identified and mitigated effectively and meet the robust security standards expected by HMG. It would therefore not be appropriate for the Government to pre-suppose the use of armed security for new infrastructure.

Any costs associated with meeting the security outcome requirements set by the Regulator are met by industry.

Question to the Department for Energy Security & Net Zero:

To ask the Secretary of State for Energy Security and Net Zero, what his policy is on local (a) consent and (b) support for radioactive storage facilities.

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

The UK Government’s policy states that nuclear operators’ proposed programmes and plans for the management and disposal of radioactive waste should be developed by including wide stakeholder engagement. This should include local authorities and communities which may be impacted by the plans, including any host community in the vicinity of a waste treatment, storage or disposal facility.

In addition, the UK Government’s policy to deliver a geological disposal facility (GDF) for our most hazardous radioactive waste requires the explicit consent of the potential host community through a Test of Public Support.

Question to the Department for Energy Security & Net Zero:

To ask the Secretary of State for Energy Security and Net Zero, what research has been carried out on the safety of small modular nuclear reactors.

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

The UK has a goal setting, non-prescriptive nuclear regulatory framework operated by the Office for Nuclear Regulation (ONR), the UK’s independent nuclear safety and security regulator.. Within this, the onus is on companies to set out claims, arguments and evidence to demonstrate that prescribed nuclear activities can be carried out safely, securely, and in ways that manage nuclear safeguards.

The Government has funded the regulator to build their capability and capacity to assess SMR safety cases anticipating the growing demand from the advanced nuclear sector.

Question to the Department for Energy Security & Net Zero:

To ask the Secretary of State for Energy Security and Net Zero, what (a) discussions and (b) meetings officials in his Department have had with Xi Engineering on the Eskdalemuir Seismological Array.

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

We recognise and are aware of the interference that onshore wind turbines can cause to seismological monitoring stations, and the subsequent safeguarding concerns that operators of seismological arrays can have. The Onshore Wind Taskforce Strategy, published in July 2025, prioritised bringing forward a resolution to this issue. We have and continue to work closely with the Scottish Government, the Ministry of Defence, Wind Industry representatives and Xi Engineering to deliver on this commitment

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 geothermal storage of energy from wind turbines on the mitigation of curtailment fees.

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

Clean Power will require greater levels of energy storage. Geothermal storage is relatively nascent but holds promise – particularly when there is demand for that heat nearby. We set out our ambition to unlock more flexibility from thermal storage in the Clean Flexibility Roadmap earlier this year and will set out our strategy for heat networks in the Warm Homes Plan.

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 protect natural carbon sinks.

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

Nature-based solutions are fundamental to achieving net zero and biodiversity recovery. We are investing £7 billion in nature’s recovery, including £816 million for tree planting and £85 million on improving and restoring our peat, in order to protect and enhance natural carbon sinks.

Question to the Department for Energy Security & Net Zero:

To ask the Secretary of State for Energy Security and Net Zero, what steps the Government is taking to return all future surplus investment returns in the Mineworkers’ Pension Scheme to beneficiaries.

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

The Government and the Trustees have discussed the Mineworkers’ Pension Scheme Trustees’ proposals for the future of the Scheme. DESNZ will now work with the Treasury to seek to reach an agreement that can be implemented at the next Scheme valuation in September 2026.

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 including hydrogenation and dehydrogenation projects within the Liquid Organic Hydrogen Carriers eligible for funding through the Net Zero Hydrogen Fund.

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

The Net Zero Hydrogen Fund was designed to bring forward the first UK low carbon hydrogen production projects, and was not intended to support other parts of the hydrogen value chain such as hydrogen carriers. It made its final funding allocations in 2023.

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 increase the use of UK-manufactured (a) technologies and (b) components in (i) hydrogen and (ii) fuel cell projects; and what steps his Department is taking to ensure that British firms can capitalise on (A) growth and (B) export opportunities in the hydrogen economy.

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

The Clean Energy Industries Sector Plan sets out a clear plan to support the growth of the UK’s manufacturing base for hydrogen technologies including deployment certainty and timelines for future Hydrogen Allocation Rounds; the launch of the first transport and storage allocation round and hydrogen to power business model; establishing the UK’s first regional hydrogen network from 2031; working with projects to deliver events connecting developers and suppliers; and a comprehensive public financial institution offer including the £1bn Great British Energy supply chain fund.

UK companies are at the forefront of hydrogen technology advancement and are already exporting their innovative technologies across the globe. We are working hard to ensure UK hydrogen and fuel cell companies continue to capitalise on the opportunities of the clean energy transition and access high value opportunities in international markets. This includes working to remove trade barriers and championing our world-leading hydrogen companies overseas.

Question to the Department for Energy Security & Net Zero:

To ask the Secretary of State for Energy Security and Net Zero, what data his Department holds on how much and what proportion of wind power investment is directed into (a) domestic and (b) international supply chains.

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

The Offshore Wind Regional Growth Prospectuses set out a range of current manufacturing and services capabilities in the UK, as well as growth opportunities, including in blade, foundation and cable manufacture; secondary steel components; cable installation; operations and maintenance activity; and environmental services. New facilities in development include cable manufacturing in Nigg and Blyth, and monopile construction in Teesside.

Data collected via the Onshore Wind Taskforce indicates that UK content in domestic onshore windfarms can be between 50 and 70 percent, with high shares of jobs and investment in development, operations and maintenance, civil engineering and electrical works.

As set out in the Modern Industrial Strategy, DESNZ is working with industry to explore new metrics by the end of 2025 to determine the health and success of the supply chain.

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 foster international cooperation towards the aims of (a) increasing the use of renewable energy and (b) reducing global reliance on fossil fuels.

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

Building on our ambition to make Britain a clean energy superpower, the UK is working closely with international partners through the UNFCCC process, multilateral organisations and UK-led initiatives such as the Global Clean Power Alliance (GCPA), Powering Past Coal Alliance (PPCA), Clean Energy Transition Partnership (CETP) and Green Grids Initiative (GGI) to enable a global, just clean energy transition that delivers on the Paris Agreement and energy security.

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 the Scottish Government to ensure that businesses can increase the supply of apprenticeships in response to increases in levels of regional demand for green jobs.

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

Young people in all UK regions and nations will benefit from the good jobs that the clean energy economy can bring. In Scotland, we estimate up to 40,000 additional clean energy jobs by 2030.

Skills policy is devolved, but the UK Government is working closely with the Scottish Government as we train up the next generation.

The Post-16 Education and Skills White Paper outlines our vision for a world-class skills system, giving students better opportunities, skills, and pathways to success, while meeting employer needs.

The Growth and Skills Offer, with apprenticeships at its heart, will deliver greater flexibility for employers.

Question to the Department for Energy Security & Net Zero:

To ask the Secretary of State for Energy Security and Net Zero, what representations he has made to the Chancellor of the Exchequer on the transfer of the British Coal Staff Superannuation Scheme’s Investment Reserve to its Welsh scheme members.

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

The Department is engaging with HM Treasury with a view to agreeing a way forward on the transfer of the reserve to members.

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

As at 30 October 2024, there were 3,650 members of the British Coal Staff Superannuation Scheme in Wales. Any transfer of the reserve would be used to enhance member benefits.

Question to the Department for Energy Security & Net Zero:

To ask the Secretary of State for Energy Security and Net Zero, if he will take steps to establish a (a) clear pathway and (b) timeframe for transition plan disclosure to become mandatory for large UK companies.

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

The government ran a consultation seeking views on how to implement transition plan requirements ran from June to September 2025 which has now closed. We are reviewing responses and will respond in due course.

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 19 September 2025 to Question 76666 on British Coal Staff Superannuation Scheme, if it remains his policy to reach an outcome on the British Coal Staff Superannuation Scheme’s investment reserve that can be implemented this year.

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

The Government’s aim remains to reach an outcome that can be implemented this year.

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 press release entitled Prime Minister launches Global Clean Power Alliance as UK leads the global energy transition, published on 19 November 2024, which (a) countries and (b) international organisations have formally signed up to that alliance.

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

The Global Clean Power Alliance (GCPA) is organised around tangible “Missions”, which bring interested partners together to overcome shared barriers to clean power deployment. Initially, we are focusing on mobilising private finance and enhancing supply chains.

Brazil, Australia, Barbados, Canada, Chile, Colombia, France, Germany, Morocco, Mozambique, Norway, Tanzania and the African Union are partners of the GCPA’s Finance Mission, endorsing its founding statement, with the European Commission also supporting. All are working with the UK on the Finance Mission to build investment opportunities and provide the assistance developing countries need to get clean energy finance flowing.

The UK’s Green Finance Institute and the World Bank’s ESMAP (Energy Sector Management Assistance Programme) are key delivery partners of the Finance Mission. At the time of launch several financial institutions, international organisations, philanthropies and industry representatives committed to supporting energy transitions in the Global South supported a related non-governmental statement. An update to the Finance Mission was issued on 15 November Global Clean Power Alliance: finance mission update (November 2025) - GOV.UK

Australia, Canada, Kenya, the Netherlands and Zambia, alongside the International Energy Agency and Utilities for Net Zero Alliance (facilitated by IRENA), are partners of the Supply Chains Mission, with continued inputs from Chatham House and support from the European Commission and the COP30 Presidency. All agreed to endorse its vision statement Global Clean Power Alliance: supply chains mission vision - GOV.UK

Question to the Department for Energy Security & Net Zero:

To ask the Secretary of State for Energy Security and Net Zero, if he will list the titles of all the events organised by Civil Service networks in his Department since 2023.

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

DESNZ values the work our Staff Networks do to support and include colleagues. All DESNZ Staff Network events are in line with cross-Government guidance and signed-off by relevant officials. Civil Service Networks operate across the whole of Government. We do not keep a record of Civil Service Network events.

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 include natural stone in future (a) low-carbon and (b) sustainable construction incentive schemes.

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

The department is currently developing policies that will help grow the market for low carbon industrial products, including green procurement and improved carbon accounting. The initial focus of these policies is steel, cement, and concrete products used in construction.

The department recently ran a technical consultation that included questions on whether other industrial sectors should be included in the scope of these policies in future. Although natural stone was not explicitly mentioned in the consultation, it would align with one of the options; to take a strategic approach to expand these policies to other sectors related to construction. The department is currently reviewing the responses to this consultation and will publish a summary and its own response in due course.

The government also recognises the role that whole life carbon assessments can play in helping developers to evaluate carbon emissions across all stages of a building or structure’s life. This approach can support decision makers to adopt materials which have a lower overall environmental impact. Whole life carbon assessments are embedded into green procurement approaches being taken by government departments, such as instituting carbon management plans.

The department would welcome engagement with any interested stakeholders from the natural stone sector.

Question to the Department for Energy Security & Net Zero:

To ask the Secretary of State for Energy Security and Net Zero, what his priorities are for the UN Climate Change Conference 2025.

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

The Secretary of State and Minister for Climate are in Brazil to fight for our national interest. By working to protect the global ecosystem and speed up the clean energy revolution globally we can unlock investment in energy security, lower bills, and create good jobs for the British people.

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 potential challenges to decarbonise (a) homes and (b) businesses that (i) use alternative energy sources and (ii) are off the main gas grid.

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

The Clean Heat Market Mechanism is focused on developing the market and supply chain for upgrading homes with hydronic heat pumps – a core technology for the UK’s transition to cleaner heating since around 90% of UK homes have water-based central heating systems. The Government will keep the scope of the scheme under regular review.

The Government has published a response to the consultation on proposed Boiler Upgrade Scheme changes, confirming grants of £2,500 for air-to-air heat pumps in domestic properties, starting in 2026. This will increase consumer choice and support the UK’s transition towards low carbon heating systems.

Question to the Department for Energy Security & Net Zero:

To ask the Secretary of State for Energy Security and Net Zero, what progress he has made on the carbon capture and storage project at St Fergus.

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

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

Since the Spending Review, we have worked closely with Acorn to understand what they need to keep them progressing towards FID and are confident we can continue collaborating on that.

We have also established a ministerial led forum, where government, regulators and industry representatives come together on a regular basis to drive forward momentum for the Scottish cluster.

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 reforms announced in the Department for Education's press release entitled Schools to cut bills with Great British Energy solar panels, published on 17 November 2025, what is the definition of home grown in the context of imported components for solar panels.

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

‘Homegrown’ ‘power refers to schools generating their own electricity from solar panel installations on their own buildings. Panels themselves are procured with support from Crown Commercial Services under strict controls and may include components sourced outside the UK. All contracts issued under this schools and solar initiative comply with UK procurement rules.

Question to the Department for Energy Security & Net Zero:

To ask the Secretary of State for Energy Security and Net Zero, what plans he has to provide clarity to the trustees of the British Coal staff superannuation scheme on the possibilities of return of the £2.3 billion investment reserve of the British Coal superannuation scheme back to its members.

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

The Department is engaging with HM Treasury with a view to agreeing a way forward on the transfer of the reserve to members.

The Government is 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 the Secretary of State for Energy Security and Net Zero, what recent conversations he has with the Treasury regarding the return of the £2.3 billion investment reserve of the British Coal staff superannuation scheme.

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

The Department is engaging with HM Treasury with a view to agreeing a way forward on the transfer of the reserve to members.

The Government is 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 the Secretary of State for Energy Security and Net Zero, what recent conversations he has had with Treasury about the potential impact of the return of the £2.3 billion investment reserve of the British Coal staff superannuation scheme on the economy.

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

As at 30 October 2024, there were 39,251 members of the British Coal Staff Superannuation Scheme. Any transfer of the reserve would be used to enhance member benefits.

Question to the Department for Energy Security & Net Zero:

To ask the Secretary of State for Energy Security and Net Zero, what progress has been made on identifying a location for a geological disposal facility for generational storage of nuclear waste.

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

A process is underway to identify a suitable site for a geological disposal facility (GDF) in England and Wales. Two areas are currently participating, both in West Cumberland, and site suitability investigations and community engagement activities are well underway in both of these areas. The siting process is consent-based, requiring both a willing host community and suitable geology.

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 steps to ensure that that fossil fuel companies fund the costs of climate recovery in the UK.

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

My Rt hon Friend the Secretary of State has regular discussions with Ministerial Colleagues on a number of issues.

Question to the Department for Energy Security & Net Zero:

To ask the Secretary of State for Energy Security and Net Zero, if he will make an estimate of the cost to the public purse of (a) consultations and (b) reviews conducted by his Department since 4 July 2024.

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

There has been no spend by the communications team at the Department for Energy Security and Net Zero on promoting (a) consultations and (b) reviews since the department formed in 2023.

It is not possible to distinguish time and resource spent by other staff on (a) consultations and (b) reviews from the wider routine work of a policy-making department. Further data is therefore not held.

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 households requiring removal of spray foam insulation installed under government grant schemes.

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

In any instance where insulation is installed improperly under a government-backed scheme, consumers are entitled to remediation by their installer or, failing that, the insurance-backed guarantee. Where the measure has not been installed correctly, homeowners should contact their installer or use the TrustMark dispute resolution process to seek redress (https://www.trustmark.org.uk/homeowner/information-guidance/if-things-go-wrong).

As part of the Warm Homes Plan, Government is reviewing the entire landscape - from how installers work in people’s homes to where homeowners turn for rapid action and enforcement if things go wrong. We are planning to consult on proposals for retrofit system reform early next year.

Question to the Department for Energy Security & Net Zero:

To ask the Secretary of State for Energy Security and Net Zero, for what reason air to air reversible heat pumps do not qualify for the (a) Clean Heat Market Mechanism and (b) Boiler Upgrade Scheme.

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

The Clean Heat Market Mechanism is focused on developing the market and supply chain for upgrading homes with hydronic heat pumps – a core technology for the UK’s transition to cleaner heating since around 90% of UK homes have water-based central heating systems. The Government will keep the scope of the scheme under regular review.

The Government has published a response to the consultation on proposed Boiler Upgrade Scheme changes, confirming grants of £2,500 for air-to-air heat pumps in domestic properties, starting in 2026. This will increase consumer choice and support the UK’s transition towards low carbon heating systems.

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 lower standing charge tariffs on households in the Scottish Highlands.

Answered by Martin McCluskey - 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 energy bill is placed on standing charges. We are committed to lowering the cost of standing charges and are working constructively with Ofgem on this issue.

Ofgem have been working to ensure that domestic consumers, in the Scottish Highlands and across Great Britain, can choose tariffs with lower standing charges. You can read about this here:
Requirement to offer lower standing charge tariffs | Ofgem

Ofgem have also been reviewing how ‘fixed’ costs, which tend to be funded through standing charges, should be recovered in the future energy system. Through the Cost Allocation and Recovery Review (CARR), Ofgem will consider how options for allocating and recovering costs in a fairer and more efficient way. This includes considering whether ‘fixed’ costs should vary across regions or whether they should be standard across Great Britain.

Question to the Department for Energy Security & Net Zero:

To ask the Secretary of State for Energy Security and Net Zero, what estimate she has made of the additional annual cost to households in Bradford caused by delays in delivering large-scale home insulation programmes since 2019.

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

No estimates have been made on the delays of home insulation programmes since 2019. We know improving the energy efficiency of our homes is an important step in reducing fuel poverty.

There are several government energy efficiency schemes and households can access the government's home retrofit tool on GOV.UK (www.gov.uk/improve-energy-efficiency), which allows users to get tailored recommendations for home improvements that could make their property cheaper to heat and keep warm.

This government’s ambitious Warm Homes Plan will transform homes across the country by making them cleaner and cheaper to run, from installing new insulation to rolling out solar and heat pumps. We will publish more details soon.

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 to Question 88054 answered on 17th November 2025, how involve is defined with regard to consulting Fire and Rescue Services during public consultation.

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

The relevant part of the Planning Practice Guidance on expected interactions between local planning authorities and local fire and rescue services with respect to grid-scale batteries is at paragraph 35.

Question to the Department for Energy Security & Net Zero:

To ask the Secretary of State for Energy Security and Net Zero, how much OFGEM has spent on translation and interpretation services in each of the last five years.

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

Ofgem has compiled and shared the following information with the Department:

Financial year Spend (£) (nominal)

20/21 3,790.00

21/22 6,840.00

22/23 3,348.35

24/25 2,260.80

25/26 (to date) 7,214.28

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 21 October to Question 81636 on Carbon Emissions: Housing, if he will publish a list of industry groups that have been consulted.

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

The research under consideration was a social research project which used in-person home retrofit assessments to determine the suitability of a range of decarbonisation options in potentially complex to decarbonise properties.

Industry groups have not been directly consulted as part of this specific research project, as the focus was on delivering these bespoke assessments to householders of the potentially complex homes. Energy Saving Trust and consortium (leading the project) recruited independent PAS-certified energy assessors to conduct these assessments, as well as MCS qualified professionals to quality assure a small subset of these assessments.

Question to the Department for Energy Security & Net Zero:

To ask the Secretary of State for Energy Security and Net Zero, what progress his department is making on delivering new jobs for North East Somerset & Hanham in clean energy industries.

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

Our Clean Energy Jobs Plan sets out how the number of jobs supported by clean energy industries is estimated to grow from around 440,000 jobs in 2023 to support 860,000 jobs across the UK by 2030.

In South-West England, the demand is estimated to reach up to 35,000 direct jobs by the end of the decade, which is an increase of up to 15,000 jobs.

This is driven by projects in the wider area, such as Hinkley Point C, which will have at least 25,000 jobs during construction, 900 jobs during operation, 1,000 apprenticeships, and adult training placements.

Question to the Department for Energy Security & Net Zero:

To ask the Secretary of State for Energy Security and Net Zero, if he will publish analysis on the affordability and availability of renewable liquid fuels.

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

On 18 November, the Government published a consultation exploring the role of alternative clean heating solutions, including renewable liquid fuels (RLFs). The consultation, which will run for 12 weeks, seeks further evidence on the affordability and availability of RFLs. Findings from the consultation will be published in the government 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 assessment his Department has made of the potential impact of improved household insulation on levels of fuel poverty in the Scottish Highlands.

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

Energy efficiency policy is devolved in Scotland. The Department for Energy Security and Net Zero has reporting responsibilities for England only.

Question to the Department for Energy Security & Net Zero:

To ask the Secretary of State for Energy Security and Net Zero, what progress has been made on the Fuel Finder scheme; whether the launch date of late 2025 is still applicable; and what further work is being done by the Government to help reduce fuel prices.

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

This Government is committed to ensuring drivers get a fair deal which is why we are implementing Fuel Finder as quickly as possible. Subject to parliamentary passage, we aim to launch Fuel Finder by the end of 2025.

In the meantime, a voluntary scheme is in place where fuel retailers are encouraged to share fuel prices until Fuel Finder gains a statutory footing. This is an important first step in increasing competitive pressure on retailers while legislation is finalised.

In addition, we have introduced statutory powers for the Competition and Markets Authority to monitor the market and identify the need further intervention

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 to Question 88051 answered on 17th November 2025, if he will consider publishing interim data on this topic.

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

Fuel poverty statistics are based on the English Housing Survey which is collected annually. The department does not hold interim statistics or data on fuel poverty collected between English Housing Survey samples. The date for the next publication in 2026 will be pre-announced in line with the standards for official statistics.

Question to the Department for Energy Security & Net Zero:

To ask the Secretary of State for Energy Security and Net Zero, what recent progress her Department has made in meeting the targets set out in the Carbon Budget Delivery Plan; and what assessment she has made of the implications of current progress for households in high-poverty areas such as Bradford East.

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

The government’s Carbon Budget and Growth Delivery Plan set out how the UK will reduce emissions and benefit from lower bills, skilled jobs, warmer homes and cleaner air. We are working across government on a comprehensive Warm Homes Plan, which will be a major step forward to cut energy bills for good. Scaling up new clean energy industries will create opportunities to actively reduce inequalities and create good jobs. We will continue to invest in clean low-cost energy. Our approach to the transition is built on fairness, ensuring everyone reaps the benefits and that no one is left behind.

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 end the higher standing charges paid by prepayment meter users; and if she will make an assessment of the impact of that inequality on low-income families in Bradford East.

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

Since 1 April 2024, under the price cap, Ofgem has levelised standing charges for prepayment meter and direct debit customers and implemented a process of cost reconciliation for suppliers. This reduces the standing charges of consumers with prepayment meters, while each direct debit consumer pays more than they would have otherwise done.

This ends the inequity of people with prepayment meters, many of whom are vulnerable, being charged more up-front for their energy than other consumers. The Government knows too much of the burden of the energy bill is placed on standing charges. We are working with Ofgem to address this.

Question to the Department for Energy Security & Net Zero:

To ask the Secretary of State for Energy Security and Net Zero, if she will publish regional breakdowns of households spending more than 20 per cent of disposable income on energy, including figures for Bradford, as part of the annual Fuel Poverty Statistics.

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

The Department for Energy Security and Net Zero is currently reviewing our approach to affordability metrics, following the consultation published earlier this year on the review of the fuel poverty strategy. We will provide further updates in our upcoming fuel poverty strategy.

Question to the Department for Energy Security & Net Zero:

To ask the Secretary of State for Energy Security and Net Zero, what recent assessment she has made of the level of fuel poverty in Bradford; and what steps her Department is taking to support households spending more than a quarter of their income on energy bills.

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

In 2023, 18.7% of households in the Bradford East parliamentary constituency were estimated to be in fuel poverty.

It is imperative that fuel poor homes benefit from the transition to net zero. We are working across government on a comprehensive Warm Homes Plan for households to cut energy bills for good and will publish more details soon. We will upgrade up to 5 million homes across the country, including those in Bradford, and the transition to warmer, decarbonised homes. This will include support for the most vulnerable to help slash fuel poverty.

There are multiple targeted schemes in place to deliver energy efficiency measures and low carbon heating to low income and fuel poor households. Schemes include the Energy Company Obligation (ECO), the Warm Homes: Social Housing Fund, and the new Warm Homes: Local Grant.

Support is also available through the Warm Home Discount schemes which provide eligible low-income households across Great Britain with £150 off their winter energy bill. We are expanding the Warm Home Discount to around an additional 2.7 million households. This means that from this 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 the Secretary of State for Energy Security and Net Zero, pursuant to the Answer of 21 October 2025 to Question 81636 on Carbon emissions: Housing, what organisation is leading this work; and what are the terms of reference of the research.

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

The research is being led by Energy Saving Trust in consortium with Taylor McKenzie and Elmhurst Energy.

The research aims to (1) identify the range of archetypes of the UK housing stock that are complex-to-decarbonise (CTD), (2) help householders and industry understand the economic costs and trade-offs associated with different decarbonisation approaches across the different CTD archetypes, and (3) propose the best practice approaches to making low carbon heating viable and affordable for CTD householders.

The research involved ~450 in-person retrofit assessments of homes deemed likely to be complex, and subsequent desk-based evaluation of measure mixes to determine suitability of installation, costs to install and potential savings. Findings are expected to be published in Spring/Summer 2026.

Question to the Department for Energy Security & Net Zero:

To ask the Secretary of State for Energy Security and Net Zero, how much funding has been allocated to clean energy and green industrial projects in West Yorkshire since July 2024; and what steps she is taking to ensure that Bradford benefits from those investments.

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

Since July 2024, over £52 billion of private investment has already been announced into the UK’s clean energy industries for projects and plans over the coming years.

Recent projects supported by Government include two district heat networks in West Yorkshire which have received funding from the Local Net Zero Accelerator programme, Hydrogen Allocation Round 1 benefitting projects like the Bradford Low Carbon Hydrogen project and GBE placing solar panels on NHS sites in Bradford and beyond.

As part of the Industrial Strategy, the Government is committed to devolving significant powers to Mayoral Combined Authorities (MCAs) across England, giving them the tools they need to grow their sectoral clusters and improve the local business environment.

Local Growth Plans are a cornerstone of the place-based approach. These locally owned, 10-year strategies will set out how MCAs will use their devolved powers and funding to drive growth in their region.

Question to the Department for Energy Security & Net Zero:

To ask the Secretary of State for Energy Security and Net Zero, whether her Department plans to increase funding to local authorities such as Bradford Council to support the delivery of local home retrofit and insulation programmes as part of the Carbon Budget Delivery Plan.

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

As set out in the Carbon Budget and Growth Delivery Plan, the Government is committed to working in partnership with local places like Bradford to deliver net zero, and is pursuing policies which upgrade homes with more efficient clean energy technologies, cut bills and deliver warmer homes. This includes our planned £13.2bn investment in the Warm Homes Plan, which aims to upgrade up to 5 million homes over this Parliament and cut energy bills for good. Further detail on the Warm Homes Plan will be announced soon.

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 increase the number of households in the Highlands with improved wall and loft insulation.

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

As issues of energy efficiency are devolved, Scotland has specific Net Zero strategies. We work closely with our counterparts in the Devolved Governments to ensure our strategies align.

Consumers can visit Home Energy Scotland for advice on home upgrades and information about the Scottish Government funded Warmer Homes Scotland programme which provides grants and support. A phoneline service is available on 0808 808 2282.

Rural off-gas-grid properties in Scotland receive a 35% uplift incentivising delivery in harder to reach areas and reflecting additional energy costs.

Between Jan 2013 and June 2025, the Highlands (Local Authority) received 15,874 measures under the ECO scheme, and 9,242 via ECO Flex between April 2017 and June 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 effectiveness of the Clean Power 2030 target in reducing average household energy bills.

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

The Government and Prime Minister is fully committed to delivering clean power by 2030. Last December, we published the Clean Power 2030 Action Plan, which provides the foundation for the UK to build an energy system that can bring down bills for households and businesses for good, and protect them against future price shocks. For example, NESO modelling showed that if gas use for power generation remained at the levels of 2023 and gas prices were raised to the peak levels in 2022 (300 p/therm on average), this would add around £12 billion to annual electricity system costs in Great Britain. In the clean power pathways, a similar price shock would only add around £5 billion.

Question to the Department for Energy Security & Net Zero:

To ask the Secretary of State for Energy Security and Net Zero, how many homes in Bradford East are expected to benefit from the Government’s Warm Homes Plan; and what estimate she has made of the average annual saving per household from those upgrades.

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

The Government is working on a comprehensive Warm Homes Plan for households, including those in Bradford, to cut energy bills for good and will publish more details soon.

Question to the Department for Energy Security & Net Zero:

To ask the Secretary of State for Energy Security and Net Zero, what recent discussions his Department has had with Ofgem on the introduction of lower standing charge tariffs for electricity consumers.

Answered by Martin McCluskey - 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 energy bill is placed on standing charges. We are committed to lowering the cost of standing charges and are working constructively with Ofgem on this issue.

Ofgem have been working to ensure that domestic consumers can choose tariffs with low or no standing charges. You can read about this here:

https://www.ofgem.gov.uk/policy/standing-charges-energy-price-cap-variant-next-steps.

Ofgem have also been reviewing how ‘fixed’ costs, which tend to be funded through standing charges, should be recovered in the future energy system through their Cost Allocation and Recovery Review. This includes whether those fixed costs could be recovered in more progressive ways, and we are working closely with the regulator on this. You can read about this here: Energy system cost allocation and recovery review | Ofgem

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 support the growth of community owned energy projects.

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

Great British Energy will enhance existing support to community energy by partnering with and providing funding and support to Local Government, and community energy groups as well as working with Devolved Governments. This will help to roll out local and community renewable energy projects across the UK.

Great British Energy will also provide commercial, technical and project planning assistance, increasing capability and capacity to build a pipeline of successful projects in local areas.

Question to the Department for Energy Security & Net Zero:

To ask the Secretary of State for Energy Security and Net Zero, what steps he will take to ensure community groups are central to the delivery of local power plans.

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

The Local Power Plan will be a joint plan between GBE and Department for Energy Security and Net Zero which will outline our shared vision for the local and community energy sector: to drive the growth of renewable energy projects and support efforts to unlock cleaner, cheaper and more resilient power at the community level.

We are continuing to develop the Local Power Plan with GBE and updates will be provided soon.

Question to the Department for Energy Security & Net Zero:

To ask the Secretary of State for Energy Security and Net Zero, whether UK (a) climate and (b) carbon capture, usage and storage initiatives are coordinated with U.S. federal or state programmes.

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

The United States is Britain’s closest ally. Our two countries have a long, deep history of close cooperation. This is demonstrated by the Technology Prosperity Deal signed by the Prime Minister and the President during his recent State Visit, which included ambitious civil nuclear collaboration.

The United States are also a key UK partner in Carbon Capture, Utilisation and Storage, as the world leader in deployment and current capacity, on which we each engage multilaterally within the Carbon Management Challenge and the Clean Energy Ministerial CCUS Initiative.

Question to the Department for Energy Security & Net Zero:

To ask the Secretary of State for Energy Security and Net Zero, if he will steps he will take to prevent Drax power station from burning old growth forest wood in its power station between now and 2027.

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

We work closely with Ofgem on monitoring environmental regulations and forestry practices in areas where biomass is sourced to ensure the sustainability of the feedstock coming to the UK.

In October 2023 Drax adopted a policy of not sourcing material directly from old growth areas in British Columbia for Drax Power Station in Selby. As a result of Ofgem’s investigation, Drax are currently conducting a global review of their supply chain through an independent auditor. We will carefully consider the results of this audit.

From 2027 onwards, the new Low Carbon Dispatchable Contract for Difference strengthens sustainability requirements by ensuring no subsidy is paid for electricity generated from primary material harvested from primary forest or old growth areas.

Question to the Department for Energy Security & Net Zero:

To ask the Secretary of State for Energy Security and Net Zero, whether his Department is taking steps to investigate incidents of incorrectly installed cavity wall insulation that was installed before 2021.

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

Cavity wall insulation (CWI) is one of the most cost-effective means of improving energy efficiency in people’s homes when installed in suitable homes and supported by appropriate installation standards and guarantees. However, the Government is aware that there are instances where issues have arisen in some homes which may be attributed to a CWI installation.

For installations under previous government schemes, guidance is available on the Government’s website for consumers who suspect they may have faulty CWI installed in their home, outlining routes to redress under these circumstances at https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/cavity-wall-insulation-cwi-consumer-guide-to-issues-arising-from-installations.

Question to the Department for Energy Security & Net Zero:

To ask the Secretary of State for Energy Security and Net Zero, whether the Warm Homes Plan will include (a) independent inspections of retrofit work, (b) requirements for training for installers and (c) protections for residents.

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

The Government is reviewing the system of consumer protection and oversight for home retrofit installations. This work looks at the entire landscape: from how installers work in people’s homes to where homeowners turn for rapid action and enforcement if things go wrong. More information will be shared in the forthcoming Warm Homes Plan.

The Government is planning to consult on proposals for retrofit system reform early next year.

Found: It should replicate the DESNZ nuclear fusion investment model by cornerstoneing sector- specific venture

Found: For example, we are losing skills in climate finance in FCDO, but we are building those up in DESNZ

Found: The joint FCDO-DESNZ International Forests Unit is highly respected for its advocacy and programming,

Found: The climate-related assistance previously allocated through BEIS/DESNZ provides a strong foundation.

Found: Communities (IPLC) Forest Tenure Joint Statement11 and the Congo Basin Joint Statement.12 The joint FCDO-DESNZ

Found: The climate-related assistance previously allocated through BEIS/DESNZ provides a strong foundation.

Found: For example, we are losing skills in climate finance in FCDO, but we are building those up in DESNZ

Found: Sellafield Ltd is doing all it can in the Jeremy Pocklington CB Permanent Secretary Department for Energy Security & Net Zero

Found: Rt Hon Ed Miliband MP Secretary of State Department for Energy Security & Net Zero 55 Whitehall

Found: Letter from Baroness Sheehan to DESNZ Minister of State for Energy on Low Carbon Dispatchable CfD for

Found: ● DESNZ/DLUHC/EA: Will annual water reporting for data centres and water‑neutrality tests be mandated

Found: However, confidence in a developer-led approach is not yet assured and will only come if DESNZ, GBE-N

Found: The timeline for this NPS review has been to ensure that DESNZ delivers on the Chancellor’s announcement

Found: Dan McGrail: The local power plan is a joint DESNZ and GBE document, which will be published early in

Found: requirements across safety, decency, and energy efficiency, and by pooling funding streams from DLUHC and DESNZ

Found: Rt Hon Ed Miliband MP Secretary of State Department for Energy Security & Net Zero 55 Whitehall

Found: Defra is working with MHCLG, DESNZ, NESO and the NISTA to integrate evidence on priorities for food

Found: between the Climate Change Committee and its analysis and the Government Department, which is now DESNZ

Found: That is co-ordination between DESNZ, DEFRA and the Department for Transport, when you think about electrification

Question to the Cabinet Office:

To ask the Minister for the Cabinet Office, pursuant to the answer of 5 November 2025, to Question 86664, on Ministers: Official Cars, how much has been invoiced to each department in each month since July 2024; and how much has been paid through an internal transfer for the Cabinet Office in each month since July 2024.

Answered by Dan Jarvis - Minister of State (Cabinet Office)

The Government Car Service (GCS) transferred to the Cabinet Office from the Department of Transport, as a result of a machinery of government change, on 1st April 2025. Therefore all invoicing data prior to that date remains with the Department for Transport.

Invoicing data post April 2025 is included below. A significant proportion of invoicing activity was paused during the transition period which resulted in two invoicing runs for April 2025 with costs normalising in subsequent months.

Charges to the Cabinet Office include services provided to No10, the Leader of the Opposition, the Leaders of the House of Commons and House of Lords, and the Cabinet Secretary, in addition to core Cabinet Office ministers.

The figures provided represent total charges to departments, inclusive of all associated costs such as Transport for London (TfL) congestion charge, as well as travel and subsistence claims submitted by drivers in the delivery of the service.

Question to the Ministry of Defence:

To ask the Secretary of State for Defence, what steps he is taking to ensure that national security is prioritised in discussions on the future of the Eskdalemuir Seismological Array.

Answered by Luke Pollard - Minister of State (Ministry of Defence)

The Ministry of Defence (MOD) is committed to safeguarding the Eskdalemuir Seismic Array, recognising its critical role in national and global security.

MOD officials regularly engage with the Department of Energy Security and Net Zero (DESNZ) and the Scottish Government to ensure that the Array’s capabilities are not affected by future wind energy deployment in the 50km zone of interest.

As a member of the DESNZ-chaired Eskdalemuir Working Group, the MOD continues to advocate for the protection of the Array, with all stakeholders aligned on its importance and the need for its safeguarding.

Found: Department for Energy Security & Net Zero (DESNZ): market engagement DESNZ used extensive market engagement

Found: Good practice example The Department for Energy Security & Net Zero (DESNZ) has designed a net zero

Found: Management DBT Department for Business and Trade DCUSA Distribution Connection and Use of System Code DESNZ

Found: service providers, such as MoD and the Defence Infrastructure Organisation, or DESNZ

Found: UK SBS is a company wholly owned by its public sector customers and shareholders: DSIT, DBT, DESNZ and

Found: The Subsidy Advice Unit (SAU) has published its report providing advice to DESNZ concerning the proposed

Found: The Referral 1.1 On 3 October 2025, the Department for Energy Security and Net Zero (DESNZ) requested

Found: service providers, such as MoD and the Defence Infrastructure Organisation, or DESNZ

Found: The Department for Energy Security and Net Zero (DESNZ) is also leading the development of an ambitious

Found: for Science, Innovation and Technology (DSIT) and the Department for Energy Security and Net Zero (DESNZ

Found: Statistics from the Department for Energy Security and Net Zero (DESNZ) (formally known as Department

Found: We’ve got our monthly call with DESNZ on Thursday – we could try and find out more then.

Found: This includes: • Network Rail • Ministry of Defence • Department for Energy Security & Net Zero

Found: This includes: • Network Rail • Ministry of Defence • Department for Energy Security & Net Zero