Net Zero Strategy and Heat and Buildings Strategy

Debate between Mark Harper and Greg Hands

Tuesday 19th October 2021 Commons Chamber

[Mr Mark Harper (Forest of Dean) (Con)]

Levelling up is very important, and it means all parts of the country, including rural areas, having the ability to become net zero. In constituencies like mine, many homes are not capable of being brought up to very high levels of energy efficiency and are not on the gas grid. What is the solution to make sure owners of those homes, who are perhaps not on the highest of incomes, can decarbonise their heat at an affordable price?

[Greg Hands]

My right hon. Friend is right to highlight off-grid properties and the importance of making sure that the overall Government agenda, including levelling up, reaches those people. On top of my announcement, we have already committed £2.5 billion to off-grid properties through the home upgrade grant and will explore extending it to 2030.