Question to the Department for Energy Security & Net Zero:

To ask the Secretary of State for Energy Security and Net Zero, what guidance his Department has issued on SME participation, risk allocation and quality assurance within procurement frameworks for the Warm Homes Plan.

DESNZ officials are currently working on detailed delivery arrangements for the Warm Homes Plan. This includes scheme design and how the implementing entities will be identified and managed for overseeing schemes, commissioning works and delivering installation activity. Identification of implementing entities and establishment of any frameworks by public authorities will be in accordance with the Procurement Act.

This includes the Government’s duty to have regard to the obstacles SMEs face when participating in procurement and to consider how these barriers can be removed or reduced. This will duly be considered during any future regulated commissioning activity.

We have established a new Warm Homes Plan Workforce Taskforce to facilitate the transition, creation and growth of a diverse, skilled and resilient workforce for existing workers and new entrants. Through the Taskforce, we are working with trade unions and the energy and construction industry to improve job quality so that the Warm Homes Plan sectors offer good jobs which are attractive to enter and stay in, and workers benefit from fair work conditions such as good wages and job stability, as well as progress in varied and sustained careers. I also chaired a task and finish group which discussed how to unblock barriers to SMEs and local supply chains accessing additional work under the Warm Homes Plan.