Question

To ask the Secretary of State for Energy and Climate Change, what steps she is taking to help (a) households and (b) businesses improve their energy efficiency.

The Government is determined to improve the energy efficiency of homes and businesses.

We need a long-term, coherent and affordable policy framework for households which ensures that Government support is targeted at those who need it most. The Department is already working closely with consumer groups and industry alike to test and develop ideas, based on evidence of what works and I look forward to setting out our approach in due course

We also recognise the significant potential for businesses to improve energy efficiency. Policies such as the Energy Savings Opportunity Scheme (ESOS) encourage energy efficiency in business. This is in addition to a range of offers including the Enhanced Capital Allowance tax scheme for businesses and the voluntary Climate Change Agreements for the energy intensive sectors which allow up to 90% reduction from the Climate Change Levy in return for signing up to stretching energy efficiency improvement targets agreed with Government.