The Government's Warm Homes Plan is a serious attempt to kickstart a long-term plan to address the growing challenge of cold, damp homes while reducing our reliance on fossil fuels. It's been a long time coming but has lots to commend it. Three elements in particular are good to see: the additional support and incentives for people on low incomes, the priority given to area-based delivery and the measures being put in place to stimulate the creation of good green jobs.
Upgrading homes – and ensuring new houses are built to the right standards – are critical both to reducing emissions and to ensuring our communities are protected from the increasingly severe impacts of extreme weather caused by climate change. Delivered effectively, the Plan will also demonstrate how increasing energy efficiency can contribute to keeping bills down, improving health and stimulating local economies.
