Thank you for contacting me about home insulation.
I am assured that good progress has been made in reducing energy bills and ensuring that homes are well-insulated. I understand that the number of homes that are well-insulated has increased from 14 per cent in 2010 to 50 per cent now.
I am aware that there are a number of schemes available to help with insulation measures. Under Energy Company Obligation, Great British Insulation Scheme, Social Housing Decarbonisation Fund, Green Homes Local Authority Delivery and Home Upgrade Grant, around 97,100 insulation measures were introduced in domestic properties between 1 December 2022 and 30 November 2023. In addition, I understand that the Government has estimated that over 300,000 homes will be supported through the Great British Insulation Scheme from April 2022 to March 2026, with £1 billion of funding available across that period.
Further, I understand that the new price cap announced by Ofgem will mean that from April, the average bill is set to drop by £238. I am aware that the Department for Energy Security and Net Zero has introduced new measures to help families save on energy costs and access cheaper deals. This includes examining how standard energy deals should work to pass on the cheapest electricity costs, as well as a new scheme to help customers repair or replace smart meter in-home displays after the one-year warranty. I understand that these displays provide an important service in helping families, including older and vulnerable people, keep track of their energy use. Extending support will help customers continue to make the most of the savings smart meters can offer as the price cap falls and competitive deals return to the market.
Finally, smart energy tariffs could see £900 taken off energy bills. I know that the Government is carrying out a call for evidence on standard energy tariffs. The call for evidence, which closes on 22 April 2024, is seeking views on making these tariffs more flexible, so families pay less if using electricity at a time of day when prices are lower while protecting those who are not suited to a flexible tariff.
Thank you again for taking the time to contact me.