Writing for PoliticsHome, co-chair of the APPG on Off-Gas Grid Therese Coffey discusses the importance of the group’s two inquiry sessions this week.
As co-chair of the APPG on Off-Gas Grid, I will be chairing two evidence sessions this week as part of our inquiry into issues affecting off-grid constituents.
Following the wide range of written responses to the call for evidence, we will hear from various stakeholders including the OFT, LPG and oil trade associations, consumer bodies, and the Minister for Climate Change, Rt Hon Greg Barker MP.
The recent drop in temperatures across the country has warned everyone of the chance of another cold winter this year. The four million households across the UK who are off the gas network will be the most concerned – they have to use much more expensive heating sources to heat homes which are often much less energy efficient.
They want the assurance that competition and regulation are good enough to ensure no one is profiting from their distress. These evidence sessions will allow us to discuss these points and to identify some solutions to help the most vulnerable.
The evidence sessions will be held on Wednesday 7th, 2-4pm, in Committee Room 13, and Thursday 8th, 3-5pm, in Room 18, and are open to the public. Following the sessions we will publish the inquiry’s findings and make representations to Government if policy changes are recommended.