Liberal Democrat Climate and Energy Spokesperson and MP for Bath,
, has backed a slew of
amendments to the Energy Bill, many with a focus on local
community energy generation and protecting consumers.
The amendments currently backed by Mrs Hobhouse focus strongly on
local energy generation and protecting vulnerable consumers and
communities. She has called on the government to enhance
financial rewards for those who own solar panels and to support
community energy projects across the country.
To protect consumers, she is also urging the government to
introduce a social tariff for vulnerable energy customers and to
ensure legacy prepayment meters are replaced with smart meters by
the end of 2025.
Bath’s MP also introduced an amendment to create a National
Warmer Homes and Businesses Action Plan and backed another which
would ban new coal mines.
, Liberal Democrat Climate and
Energy Spokesperson and MP for Bath, commented:
“The Energy Bill could signify the start of us moving into our
ambitious and positive green future. Yet, as is typical with this
government, their proposals fall short of what is required.
“In its current form, the Bill ignores major opportunities.
Giving communities a way to power their own areas is something
that has huge potential to tackle the climate emergency and bring
great, local economic benefits. The government’s ignorance of
this cannot be excused.
“The amendments I have tabled and supported would fill these
large voids in the Bill and turn it into a piece of legislation
that can accelerate our cleaner, greener and more prosperous
future.
“I hope that the government rethinks, accepts our amendments and
ensures that the Energy Bill does not become another missed
opportunity on the route to net zero.”
ENDS
Notes to Editors
A list of the amendments currently tabled to the Energy Bill can
be found here.
