theodi/ndl-core-corpus huggingface dataset:
wrans/answers2025-10-20 conversation_1253
Source: hansard.parliament.uk (2025-10-20)

UK Parliament Hansard data: wrans/answers2025-10-20 conversation_1253

Ben Obese-Jecty:To ask the Secretary of State for Energy Security and Net Zero, with reference to the Number 10 press release entitled UK to deliver on 5% NATO pledge as Government drives greater security for working people, published on 23 June 2025, if he will list his Department's (a) projects and (b) programmes by directorate that will contribute to the resilience and security element of national security spending for each year between 2025-26 and 2034-35 inclusive; and if he will list the amount of spending for each item (a) in real terms (b) as a proportion of concurrent forecast GDP. \p Michael Shanks: The Departments primary spending on National Security is focused on resilience, critical infrastructure protection, and cross-cutting capabilities such as cyber security.

Maintaining secure energy supplies is a key priority for Government as this underpins our economy, national security, and way of life.

DESNZ works closely with industry, regulators and other stakeholders to continually improve and maintain the security and resilience of energy infrastructure and networks to reduce vulnerabilities.
wrans/answers2025-10-20 conversation_1254
Source: hansard.parliament.uk (2025-10-20)

UK Parliament Hansard data: wrans/answers2025-10-20 conversation_1254

Mr Lee Dillon:To ask the Secretary of State for Energy Security and Net Zero, what steps his Department is taking to support the large scale retrofitting of heating systems in social housing. \p Martin McCluskey: We have committed £13.2bn in the Warm Homes Plan up to 2030, in line with our Manifesto commitment. This will support investment in low carbon heating, solar, batteries and insulation to up to 5 million homes across England.

Within Wave 3 of the Warm Homes: Social Housing Fund, which launched earlier this year, in addition to targeted off-grid, low-carbon heating grant funding there is a new optional low-carbon heating funding incentive for homes on the gas grid.

Up to 10% of on-grid homes in an application can access a £20,000 grant per home to install low-carbon heating measures.
wrans/answers2025-10-20 conversation_1255
Source: hansard.parliament.uk (2025-10-20)

UK Parliament Hansard data: wrans/answers2025-10-20 conversation_1255

Alicia Kearns:To ask the Secretary of State for Energy Security and Net Zero, what his planned timetable is for publication of the solar roadmap. \p Michael Shanks: The Solar Roadmap was published on 30th June. It is available here: https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/solar-roadmap.
wrans/answers2025-10-20 conversation_1256
Source: hansard.parliament.uk (2025-10-20)

UK Parliament Hansard data: wrans/answers2025-10-20 conversation_1256

Dr Rosena Allin-Khan:To ask the Secretary of State for Energy Security and Net Zero, what recent discussions his Department has had with energy producers on energy prices. \p Martin McCluskey: Details of Ministers' and Permanent Secretaries' meetings with external individuals and organisations are published quarterly in arrears on GOV.UK
wrans/answers2025-10-20 conversation_1257
Source: hansard.parliament.uk (2025-10-20)

UK Parliament Hansard data: wrans/answers2025-10-20 conversation_1257

Ben Obese-Jecty:To ask the Secretary of State for Energy Security and Net Zero, how many staff GB Energy had on 5 July 2025. \p Michael Shanks: On 5 July 2025, there were 38 people employed with Great British Energy (GBE), 2 Secondees and 8 Contingent Workers.
wrans/answers2025-10-20 conversation_1258
Source: hansard.parliament.uk (2025-10-20)

UK Parliament Hansard data: wrans/answers2025-10-20 conversation_1258

Edward Morello:To ask the Secretary of State for Energy Security and Net Zero, whether he has had discussions with rooftop solar panel manufacturers on the minimum commercially-viable price for exports. \p Michael Shanks: Details of Ministers' and Permanent Secretaries' meetings with external individuals and organisations are published quarterly in arrears on GOV.UK.
wrans/answers2025-10-20 conversation_1259
Source: hansard.parliament.uk (2025-10-20)

UK Parliament Hansard data: wrans/answers2025-10-20 conversation_1259

Callum Anderson:To ask the Secretary of State for Energy Security and Net Zero, what criteria will be used to determine community access to Great British Energy (a) capacity-building and (b) financial support. \p Michael Shanks: Great British Energy is an operationally independent company and will make its own decisions on how it supports the community energy sector.

We expect initial plans to be published as part of the Local Power Plan, which will be published in due course.

The Local Power Plan is a joint DESNZ and GBE strategy which will drive the long-term growth of the UK’s local and community energy sector over this Parliament.
wrans/answers2025-10-20 conversation_1260
Source: hansard.parliament.uk (2025-10-20)

UK Parliament Hansard data: wrans/answers2025-10-20 conversation_1260

Charlotte Nichols:To ask the Secretary of State for Energy Security and Net Zero, what the expected end-of-life date is for each operational gas-fired power station in the UK. \p Michael Shanks: The retirement of individual unabated gas plants is a commercial decision for private operators, based on technical, operational and economic factors. NESO’s Resource Adequacy in the 2030s report notes that many of today’s gas plants were commissioned before 2000 and may be approaching retirement by the early 2030s. To mitigate risks to security of supply, we have made it easier for plants to access multi-year Capacity Market agreements. This will provide greater revenue certainty that enables the type of investment ageing plants will need if they are to extend their operating life.
wrans/answers2025-10-20 conversation_1261
Source: hansard.parliament.uk (2025-10-20)

UK Parliament Hansard data: wrans/answers2025-10-20 conversation_1261

Matt Vickers:To ask the Secretary of State for Energy Security and Net Zero, what plans his Department has to review the contractual and regulatory obligations of the Data Communications Company in relation to improving smart meter network connectivity in the North of England. \p Martin McCluskey: The DCC is required by licence conditions to seek to provide coverage to all premises where it is practicable and cost proportionate, and to assess opportunities to increase the overall level of coverage. Ofgem is responsible for regulating the DCC against its obligations.
wrans/answers2025-10-20 conversation_1262
Source: hansard.parliament.uk (2025-10-20)

UK Parliament Hansard data: wrans/answers2025-10-20 conversation_1262

Siân Berry:To ask the Secretary of State for Energy Security and Net Zero, what policies his Department is developing to ensure that (a) heavy-duty vehicle depots and (b) bus depots can access timely electricity grid connections. \p Michael Shanks: The National Energy System Operator (NESO) is implementing fundamental reforms to the connections process that will free up capacity and accelerate connections, including for heavy-duty vehicle and bus depots. Alongside this, we encourage transport stakeholders to engage with NESO to ensure that the regional energy strategic plans that will inform future investment in grid capacity reflect their future electricity requirements.

However, we recognise that further action is needed, which is why we announced plans in the Industrial Strategy to use new legal powers to accelerate grid connection timelines for the most strategically important demand customers.
wrans/answers2025-10-20 conversation_1263
Source: hansard.parliament.uk (2025-10-20)

UK Parliament Hansard data: wrans/answers2025-10-20 conversation_1263

Wendy Chamberlain:To ask the Secretary of State for Energy Security and Net Zero, what steps his Department is taking to expand consumer-led flexibility solutions in rural constituencies to (a) reduce household energy bills and (b) improve grid efficiency. \p Martin McCluskey: Consumer-led flexibility (CLF) will help households reduce bills and improve grid efficiency in both urban and rural areas. The Clean Flexibility Roadmap sets out actions to unlock CLF across all regions, including through improved consumer engagement, smart tariffs, and support for technologies such as EV smart charging.

Directly participating households can see immediate bill reductions. However all households will benefit from lower electricity system costs from a more flexible system that requires less generation and associated network infrastructure.
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Source: hansard.parliament.uk (2025-10-20)

UK Parliament Hansard data: wrans/answers2025-10-20 conversation_1264

Graham Leadbitter:To ask the Secretary of State for Energy Security and Net Zero, if he will make an assessment of the adequacy of the routes used to transport nuclear waste within the UK; and if he will make an assessment of the potential impact of his Department's policies on the number of routes used. \p Michael Shanks: Nuclear waste is transported in the UK via road, rail, and sea using specially designed, secure containers that meet stringent international safety standards.

The government takes the security of nuclear material very seriously. Nuclear waste transports operate within extremely stringent safety and security standards, which are continuously monitored to minimise the risk of any incident.
wrans/answers2025-10-20 conversation_1265
Source: hansard.parliament.uk (2025-10-20)

UK Parliament Hansard data: wrans/answers2025-10-20 conversation_1265

Dr Rosena Allin-Khan:To ask the Secretary of State for Energy Security and Net Zero, what steps his Department is taking to help support green energy businesses in Tooting. \p Michael Shanks: Net zero is the economic and industrial opportunity of the 21st century. The net zero economy has become a significant driver of growth and jobs in the UK where over 94% of employers are SMEs [1].

The Government is working in partnership with businesses to support their transition to net zero, including through the Net Zero Council. The Council’s work includes supporting sectors to develop transition plans and supporting SMEs to innovate, grow and decarbonise.

The Boiler Upgrade Scheme continues to provide grants of up to £7,500 for small non-domestic property owners, with the threshold for single heat pump installations set at 45kWh.

[1] Energy & Climate Intelligence Unit | The future is green: The…
wrans/answers2025-10-20 conversation_1266
Source: hansard.parliament.uk (2025-10-20)

UK Parliament Hansard data: wrans/answers2025-10-20 conversation_1266

Stuart Anderson:To ask the Secretary of State for Energy Security and Net Zero, what steps his Department is taking to help support households that are off the (a) gas and (b) electricity grid to improve their energy efficiency. \p Martin McCluskey: We expect transitioning to clean heat will involve installing a heat pump for most off-gas-grid properties as these are cost-effective, proven technologies. The government has announced measures to support consumers with heat pump installations.

The government recognises heat pumps may not be a feasible option for all properties and we are committed to ensuring that there is the right solution for every household. Other low carbon heating technologies are available and the governments offers grants of £5,000 for biomass boilers under the Boiler Upgrade Scheme. Research is underway to collect data on the costs of different approaches to decarbonising the most complex housing archetypes.
wrans/answers2025-10-20 conversation_1267
Source: hansard.parliament.uk (2025-10-20)

UK Parliament Hansard data: wrans/answers2025-10-20 conversation_1267

Lee Anderson:To ask the Secretary of State for Energy Security and Net Zero, if he is taking steps to prevent job losses at the Lindsey Oil Refinery. \p Michael Shanks: The insolvency process at Prax Lindsey is led by the court-appointed Official Receiver, who must act in accordance with his statutory duties and independently of government.

On 30 September, the Official Receiver made the independent decision to issue 125 redundancy notices effective from 31 October in order to provide employees with as much notice as possible, while concluding the sales process in the coming weeks. The majority of the workforce will be retained beyond the end of October.

The Official Receiver is independently assessing potential bids for the future of the refinery and its assets and has made clear he will continue to work with all bidders with credible and deliverable proposals. The Government remains hopeful that a solution will be found that supports jobs on the site long-term.

The Government’s first priority is supporting the workforce. Employees will be able to access support from the Department for Work and Pensions and the National Careers Service. We are also funding a Training Guarantee for refinery workers, to ensure they have the skills they need and are supported to find long-term jobs, including in the growing clean energy workforce. Those affected are able to enrol onto the scheme now with over 60 workers already registered to complete Training Need Assessments.
wrans/answers2025-10-20 conversation_1268
Source: hansard.parliament.uk (2025-10-20)

UK Parliament Hansard data: wrans/answers2025-10-20 conversation_1268

Dr Al Pinkerton:To ask the Secretary of State for Energy Security and Net Zero, what steps his Department is taking to help ensure that compensation arrangements for prolonged power outages are (a) fair, (b) transparent and (c) reflect the impact on affected households in Surrey Heath constituency. \p Michael Shanks: All customers are entitled to compensation if distribution companies fail to meet Ofgem’s Quality-of-Service Guaranteed Standards. Ofgem clearly outlines the eligibility criteria for compensation on its website and will take action if companies do not meet their obligations in regard to delivering compensation.

Ofgem regularly review and update their compensation arrangements. The most recent changes were made following the Storm Arwen Review which came into effect on 1 September 2023 and enable higher levels of compensation at more regular intervals.
wrans/answers2025-10-20 conversation_1269
Source: hansard.parliament.uk (2025-10-20)

UK Parliament Hansard data: wrans/answers2025-10-20 conversation_1269

Patrick Hurley:To ask the Secretary of State for Energy Security and Net Zero, whether his Department has had recent discussions with utility companies on the exclusion of people in (a) flats and (b) houses in multiple occupation from off-peak reduced tariffs due to quiet time conditions in leases. \p Martin McCluskey: The Department has regular discussions with energy suppliers on a range of issues.

The Government is unable to comment on individual tariffs offered by energy suppliers, and we recommend that consumers contact their energy supplier directly to discuss their tariff.
wrans/answers2025-10-20 conversation_1270
Source: hansard.parliament.uk (2025-10-20)

UK Parliament Hansard data: wrans/answers2025-10-20 conversation_1270

Pippa Heylings:To ask the Secretary of State for Energy Security and Net Zero, what assessment he has made of the potential impact of the Atlantic Partnership for Advanced Nuclear Energy on the Office for Nuclear Regulation’s (a) safety standards and (b) independence and impartiality. \p Michael Shanks: The Atlantic Partnership for Advanced Nuclear Energy builds on existing collaboration and will accelerate licensing and reactor design checks, provide certainty to industry and uphold safety standards, while making both the UK and US an attractive place to invest.

The Office for Nuclear Regulation (ONR), the UKs independent regulator, will need to be satisfied that any design to be deployed in the UK meets UK safety standards and complies with UK law.

By working with the US the ONR will streamline processes, while continuing to maintain rigorous UK regulatory standards and its independent decision making.
wrans/answers2025-10-20 conversation_1271
Source: hansard.parliament.uk (2025-10-20)

UK Parliament Hansard data: wrans/answers2025-10-20 conversation_1271

Dr Scott Arthur:To ask the Secretary of State for Energy Security and Net Zero, when his Department plans to (a) publish a revised timeline for the track-2 cluster sequencing process and (b) provide funding for non-pipeline carbon capture projects. \p Michael Shanks: The Government announced its support for the Acorn and Viking clusters in the Spending Review and is providing the development funding to advance their delivery. We've been working with clusters to understand what they need to keep them progressing to a final investment decision (FID) this Parliament, subject to project readiness and affordability.

Non-pipeline methods of CO2 transportation (for example, road, rail and ship) will play an integral role in achieving decarbonisation across multiple regions and sectors of the economy, to meet our carbon budget targets and net zero carbon emissions by 2050.

Funding for NPT projects will be subject to future project selection processes and associated deliverability and value for money considerations.
wrans/answers2025-10-20 conversation_1272
Source: hansard.parliament.uk (2025-10-20)

UK Parliament Hansard data: wrans/answers2025-10-20 conversation_1272

Dan Norris:To ask the Secretary of State for Energy Security and Net Zero, what assessment he has made of the potential merits of using geothermal heat from former, flooded coal mines to help reach his Department's clean energy targets. \p Martin McCluskey: To achieve net zero at lowest cost, we must look at how to accelerate all low carbon technologies including geothermal. The Government recognises that the mine water from coal mines shows good potential as a renewable source for heat networks. The government is therefore supporting such mine water schemes as Gateshead and Seaham Garden Village through the Heat Network Investment Project and the Green Heat Network Fund. The Mining Remediation Authority has also released opportunity maps for 10 Cities in England Mine Water Heat Opportunity Mapping for 10 Cities in England - data.gov.uk
wrans/answers2025-10-20 conversation_1273
Source: hansard.parliament.uk (2025-10-20)

UK Parliament Hansard data: wrans/answers2025-10-20 conversation_1273

Mr Angus MacDonald:To ask the Secretary of State for Energy Security and Net Zero, what steps his Department is taking to ensure that electricity pricing structures support private sector investment in zero-emission transport infrastructure. \p Michael Shanks: Our announcement on Reformed National Pricing in the summer set out a package of reforms that will deliver a more strategic and coordinated approach to the energy system, provide stronger signals for efficient siting of new assets and improve overall operation efficiency. This will support increased investment by industry in the coming years by encouraging market stability, reducing transitional burdens on industry and transport, and providing certainty for investors.

We will continue to work with stakeholders across industry through the development and delivery of these reforms, ensuring that any associated costs with changes to processes are kept to a minimum.
wrans/answers2025-10-20 conversation_1274
Source: hansard.parliament.uk (2025-10-20)

UK Parliament Hansard data: wrans/answers2025-10-20 conversation_1274

Mr Lee Dillon:To ask the Secretary of State for Energy Security and Net Zero, what assessment he has made of the effectiveness of the Microgeneration Certification Scheme regulations for heat pumps operating at flow temperatures between 65°C and 75°C. \p Martin McCluskey: The Microgeneration Certification Scheme (MCS) stipulates that all heat pumps operating at flow temperatures above 35°C are required to be tested and meet a Seasonal Coefficient of Performance (SCOP) of 2.8. Therefore, MCS holds heat pumps operating between 65 and 75°C to the same standards as other heat pumps.

DESNZ consulted in December 2024 on “Raising product standards for space heating” which would introduce a definition and standards for high temperature heat pumps. This would be defined as any heat pump operating at 65°C. A Government Response will be issued in due course.
wrans/answers2025-10-20 conversation_1275
Source: hansard.parliament.uk (2025-10-20)

UK Parliament Hansard data: wrans/answers2025-10-20 conversation_1275

Graham Leadbitter:To ask the Secretary of State for Energy Security and Net Zero, what routes of travel are undertaken to transport nuclear waste within the UK. \p Michael Shanks: There are a number of proven routes to transport nuclear waste.

On the grounds of national security, the Government does not publish information on specific routes taken.
wrans/answers2025-10-20 conversation_1276
Source: hansard.parliament.uk (2025-10-20)

UK Parliament Hansard data: wrans/answers2025-10-20 conversation_1276

Lizzi Collinge:To ask the Secretary of State for Energy Security and Net Zero, when he plans to publish guidance on the (a) timeline and (b) requirements for private rented homes to achieve an EPC rating of C; and what support will be made available for landlords with older properties. \p Martin McCluskey: Government recently consulted on increasing minimum energy efficiency standards in the domestic private rented sector. We received a significant number of responses and we will use this feedback to inform the government response, which will be published in due course.

Support is currently available to landlords improve their properties. An eligibility tool is available at the Government webpage ‘Find Ways to Save Energy in your Home’ (www.gov.uk/improve-energy-efficiency), which provides tailored recommendations for home improvements to increase energy efficiency and clean heat.
wrans/answers2025-10-20 conversation_1277
Source: hansard.parliament.uk (2025-10-20)

UK Parliament Hansard data: wrans/answers2025-10-20 conversation_1277

Matt Vickers:To ask the Secretary of State for Energy Security and Net Zero, what recent assessment he has made of (a) the adequacy of the technology selected by the Data Communications Company for the North of England smart meter rollout and (b) the potential impact on meeting installation targets. \p Martin McCluskey: The DCC is obligated to provide WAN coverage to 99.5% of premises across its ‘North’ region, which includes the North of England. After consultation with industry, energy suppliers can now install 4G cellular smart meter communication hubs across the whole of GB. 4G will operate in the North alongside long-range radio communications for smart meters, offering suppliers an additional option for connectivity. Additionally, a new solution using consumers’ broadband connections, with consumer consent, in areas still with no WAN coverage will be piloted early next year, with a wider rollout expected later in 2026.
wrans/answers2025-10-20 conversation_1278
Source: hansard.parliament.uk (2025-10-20)

UK Parliament Hansard data: wrans/answers2025-10-20 conversation_1278

Edward Morello:To ask the Secretary of State for Energy Security and Net Zero, what funding he has allocated to support innovation in greenhouse gas removals in each year of this Parliament. \p Michael Shanks: The Greenhouse Gas Removals Innovation programme, delivered under the Net Zero Innovation Portfolio, developed 14 First-of-a-Kind Demonstrator plants nationwide.

This Government has a clear focus on commercial deployment. The HyNet Track-1 expansion Project Negotiation List, which includes two Greenhouse Gas Removal projects, was published on 5 August 2025. These projects will now proceed to the negotiations phase of the selection process. Government has also made a significant funding commitment of up to £21.7billion, over 25 years, to kickstart the Carbon Capture Usage and Storage industry.

Allocation of funding to UKRI for research and innovation is ongoing so forecasts on future innovation spend are not currently available.
wrans/answers2025-10-20 conversation_1279
Source: hansard.parliament.uk (2025-10-20)

UK Parliament Hansard data: wrans/answers2025-10-20 conversation_1279

Ben Obese-Jecty:To ask the Secretary of State for Energy Security and Net Zero, how many vacancies are there at GB Energy. \p Michael Shanks: Great British Energy (GBE) is currently in its initial start-up phase, with a strong focus on building staff capability to deliver against the Statement of Strategic Priorities. At present, there are 15 roles in recruitment, with numerous additional roles in development that are planned for recruitment in the coming months.
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Source: hansard.parliament.uk (2025-10-20)

UK Parliament Hansard data: wrans/answers2025-10-20 conversation_1280

Dr Al Pinkerton:To ask the Secretary of State for Energy Security and Net Zero, what assessment his Department has made of the potential merits of providing support to solar cooperatives in Surrey Heath constituency. \p Michael Shanks: Local communities must be at the centre of local project development and directly benefit from clean energy projects.

GBE, in support of the Local Power Plan, will enhance support for local and community energy by providing funding, capacity and capability support at all stages of project development, driving the growth of the local and community energy sector.
wrans/answers2025-10-20 conversation_1281
Source: hansard.parliament.uk (2025-10-20)

UK Parliament Hansard data: wrans/answers2025-10-20 conversation_1281

Pippa Heylings:To ask the Secretary of State for Energy Security and Net Zero, with reference to United States' Department of the Interior's letter to Orsted North America Inc, dated 22 August 2025, whether he has made an assessment of the potential impact of that letter on international investor confidence in UK offshore wind projects. \p Michael Shanks: The Government is aware of the US Department of the Interior’s 22 August 2025 letter to Ørsted North America. Overseas regulatory decisions are for those authorities; the UK is a separate market with our own regulatory framework.

The Government remains confident in the UK’s ability to attract international investment in the clean energy mission. We will achieve this by driving investment certainty, delivering targeted catalytic public investment, investing alongside industry where necessary, and breaking down barriers to investment.
wrans/answers2025-10-20 conversation_1282
Source: hansard.parliament.uk (2025-10-20)

UK Parliament Hansard data: wrans/answers2025-10-20 conversation_1282

Graham Leadbitter:To ask the Secretary of State for Energy Security and Net Zero, what the annual security costs are of nuclear waste transport within the UK; and if he will make an assessment of the potential impact of his Department's policies on those costs. \p Michael Shanks: The Government does not publish the specific security costs of nuclear waste transport on the grounds of national security.

The transportation of nuclear waste materials is long-established and has an excellent safety and security record.

Nuclear waste transports operate within extremely stringent safety and security standards, which are continuously monitored to minimise the risk of any incident.
wrans/answers2025-10-20 conversation_1283
Source: hansard.parliament.uk (2025-10-20)

UK Parliament Hansard data: wrans/answers2025-10-20 conversation_1283

Charlotte Cane:To ask the Secretary of State for Energy Security and Net Zero, what economic analysis his Department has conducted on the potential impact of non-price factors in decisions on whether sub-100MW bioenergy power stations currently supported by Renewable Obligation Certificates will receive transitional support from 2027. \p Michael Shanks: Small scale biomass generators have received many years of subsidy support under the Renewables Obligation scheme. These assets begin to roll off the scheme from 2027. Any assessment of further support must fully take into account value for money (including consumer bill impacts), electricity system and broader considerations – such as environmental impacts, which are a matter for Defra.

Biomass electricity generation is often more expensive than alternatives and reducing energy bills is a priority for this Government.
wrans/answers2025-10-20 conversation_1284
Source: hansard.parliament.uk (2025-10-20)

UK Parliament Hansard data: wrans/answers2025-10-20 conversation_1284

Dr Scott Arthur:To ask the Secretary of State for Energy Security and Net Zero, what steps his Department plans to take to help prevent waste leakage offshore following the inclusion of Energy from Waste in the UK Emissions Trading Scheme; and whether his Department plans to take steps to help support local authorities with the financial implications of this decision. \p Chris McDonald: The UK Emissions Trading Scheme (ETS) Authority consulted on expanding the UK ETS to the waste sector in 2024, including asking for views on managing the risk of increased diversion of waste to export abroad. The interim Authority Response published in July 2025 stated that policy positions are being developed to ensure that waste export is not used to avoid ETS costs and details will be set out in due course.

The Government recognises the challenges that the expansion of the scheme will place on local authorities and will confirm proposals to help them manage the impacts of the scheme in due course.
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Source: hansard.parliament.uk (2025-10-20)

UK Parliament Hansard data: wrans/answers2025-10-20 conversation_1285

Callum Anderson:To ask the Secretary of State for Energy Security and Net Zero, what financial targets his Department has set to ensure that Great British Energy is self-sustaining by 2030. \p Michael Shanks: The government has set a target for Great British Energy to start generating a portfolio-level return from its commercial activities by 2030, in support of its longer-term goal to be profitable and its wider policy objectives. The government has also tasked GBE with having a plan for becoming self-financing in place by 2030.
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Source: hansard.parliament.uk (2025-10-20)

UK Parliament Hansard data: wrans/answers2025-10-20 conversation_1286

Callum Anderson:To ask the Secretary of State for Energy Security and Net Zero, what estimate his Department has made of the potential share of Great British Energy’s portfolio to be allocated to early-stage clean energy technologies by 2030. \p Michael Shanks: Great British Energy will begin investing in projects this year – kickstarting its work in the development of nascent, clean energy technologies and helping to deliver a secure, clean homegrown energy supply for the UK that will support skilled jobs and supply chains across the country.

The Statement of Strategic Priorities requires Great British Energy to look across the clean energy technology spectrum, including in established technologies and nascent technologies (Technology Readiness Levels 6-9). The government expects GBE to work towards building a portfolio that balances the UK’s short- and long-term clean energy needs, which also provides social value and generates a return.
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Source: hansard.parliament.uk (2025-10-20)

UK Parliament Hansard data: wrans/answers2025-10-20 conversation_1287

Sally Jameson:To ask the Secretary of State for Energy Security and Net Zero, what steps he is taking through (a) regulatory reform and (b) market incentives to support the growth of the hydrogen technology manufacturing sector. \p Michael Shanks: The UK is optimally positioned to develop a thriving hydrogen economy, with many UK companies at the forefront of hydrogen technology advancement.

The Government has announced a public finance offer for clean energy industries, to crowd private investment into sustainable UK supply chains, including in the hydrogen sector. This includes a new £1 billion Clean Energy Supply chain fund aligned with the Clean Energy Industries Sector Plan; £5.8 billion for the National Wealth Fund to invest in industries including low carbon hydrogen across this Parliament; and a £4 billion British Business Bank Industrial Strategy Growth Capital scale up and start up financing package.
wrans/answers2025-10-20 conversation_1288
Source: hansard.parliament.uk (2025-10-20)

UK Parliament Hansard data: wrans/answers2025-10-20 conversation_1288

Ben Obese-Jecty:To ask the Secretary of State for Energy Security and Net Zero, what type of projects the the Great British Energy Community Fund is permitted to be spent on. \p Michael Shanks: Great British Energy announced that £5 million will be allocated to the Great British Energy Community Fund (GBECF) in 2025/26, a grant funding scheme to support community energy groups to generate their own clean power projects.

GBECF can support projects under two broad headings:

Type A – Community energy asset project (such as renewable or low carbon energy, electric vehicles)

Type B – Community energy efficiency or advice project

Further information on project eligibility can be found in the scheme guidance document, which is available on the Local Net Zero Hubs websites.

It provides funding for feasibility studies (stage 1 - up to £40k) and business case development (stage 2 - up to 100k).
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Source: hansard.parliament.uk (2025-10-20)

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Greg Smith:To ask the Secretary of State for Energy Security and Net Zero, what steps he is taking to meet the future energy demand placed on the grid by electrifying heavy goods vehicles. \p Michael Shanks: The government is delivering a major expansion of electricity networks to ensure there is sufficient grid capacity to meet future electricity demand, including from the electrification of heavy goods vehicles.

We are working with Ofgem and the National Energy System Operator to speed up delivery of new network infrastructure through reforms to planning and regulation, support for communities and strategic network design. We are radically reforming the grid connections process to ensure that both generation and demand can connect in a timely manner.
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Source: hansard.parliament.uk (2025-10-20)

UK Parliament Hansard data: wrans/answers2025-10-20 conversation_1290

Jim McMahon:To ask the Secretary of State for Energy Security and Net Zero, what role he expects local authorities to have in implementing community energy schemes. \p Michael Shanks: Together with local and community energy groups and other key stakeholders from devolved governments to mayoral strategic authorities, Great British Energy and the UK government will turbocharge support for local and community energy projects across the UK.

Great British Energy will work closely with Local Authorities to provide commercial, technical and project-planning assistance to increase their capability and capacity to build a pipeline of successful projects in their local areas.

Mayoral Strategic Authorities also have a vital role in offering local expertise with their communities and in July, Great British Energy awarded all 14 mayoral strategic authorities in England a share of £10 million in grant funding to roll out clean energy projects at the heart of their communities.
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Source: hansard.parliament.uk (2025-10-20)

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Jess Brown-Fuller:To ask the Secretary of State for Energy Security and Net Zero, what steps he is taking to ensure increased access to electric vehicle transition for residents without off-street parking. \p Michael Shanks: The Government is driving forward the expansion of public charging infrastructure so that everyone, no matter where they live or work, can confidently make the switch to an electric vehicle.

The £381 million Local EV Infrastructure (LEVI) Fund is supporting public EV charging for drivers without off-street parking.

The funding, alongside substantial private investment, will support at least 100,000 local chargers, ensuring the rollout continues at pace to support drivers in every part of the country.

In addition, the Government also announced a £25m fund to support the rollout of cross-pavement solutions in July, enabling thousands more drivers to charge from home.
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Source: hansard.parliament.uk (2025-10-20)

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Fred Thomas:To ask the Secretary of State for Energy Security and Net Zero, what steps he is taking to (a) encourage homeowners to make sustainable upgrades to properties and (b) make those improvements more affordable. \p Martin McCluskey: The government is committed to making the consumer journey easier for homeowners. The government's home retrofit tool on GOV.UK (www.gov.uk/improve-energy-efficiency), provides tailored recommendations for home improvements. A phoneline service is available on xx-xxxx-xxxx.

As part of the Warm Homes Plan, the government has committed an initial £3.4 billion over the next 3 years towards heat decarbonisation and household energy efficiency.

The Boiler Upgrade Scheme (BUS) offers an up-front grant to help replace existing fossil-fuel heating with more efficient, low-carbon heating systems. The department has also launched the Warm Homes: Local Grant (WH:LG) to support low-income homeowners in England. Officials are exploring the role of incentives and private finance for households to support homeowners with the upfront costs.
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Source: hansard.parliament.uk (2025-10-20)

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Chris Hinchliff:To ask the Secretary of State for Energy Security and Net Zero, what steps his Department plans to take to support research and development into hydrogen and fuel cell technologies. \p Michael Shanks: The Department has allocated around £170 million from the £1bn Net Zero Innovation Portfolio to hydrogen R&D, including £60m for Low Carbon Hydrogen Supply 2 and £31m for Hydrogen BECCS, advancing production, storage, transport, and negative-emission technologies.

The UK is engaging internationally to accelerate hydrogen research and innovation, for example, co-chairing the Clean Hydrogen Mission and participating in the International Energy Agency Hydrogen Technology Collaboration Programme.

This Government has a clear focus on commercial deployment, including hydrogen technologies and infrastructure.
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Source: hansard.parliament.uk (2025-10-20)

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Carla Denyer:To ask the Secretary of State for Energy Security and Net Zero, whether he has made an assessment of the potential impact of ending the Public Sector Decarbonisation Scheme after 2028 on (a) commitments to reach 100% reduction of greenhouse gas emissions by 2050 and (b) public sector (i) emissions and (ii) climate resilience. \p Martin McCluskey: By the time the Public Sector Decarbonisation Scheme concludes in 2028, it will have delivered approximately £3.5 billion in capital funding to over 1,400 projects across England. These investments have supported heat decarbonisation and energy efficiency upgrades in public sector buildings, contributing to emissions reductions and progress toward net zero as well as climate resilience.

The Government will shortly publish its Carbon Budgets and Growth Delivery Plan, which will outline plans for non-domestic buildings, including the public sector. The Warm Homes Plan will also set out plans to support the decarbonisation of buildings.

No estimate has been made of the impacts on public sector climate resilience resulting from not decarbonising the public sector.
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Source: hansard.parliament.uk (2025-10-20)

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Mr Angus MacDonald:To ask the Secretary of State for Energy Security and Net Zero, what the (a) dates and (b) locations are of each of the radio teleswitch service switch-off phases. \p Martin McCluskey: The Radio Teleswitch (RTS) signal has been switched off in some carefully targeted localised areas, where suppliers have the capacity to respond quickly in case of any issues.

Industry’s phase out plan is flexible and subject to change, as suppliers must demonstrate to Ofgem and Government that they are sufficiently prepared before they can proceed further.

Suppliers are continuing to contact households with RTS meters to arrange appointments to have them replaced in advance of any switch offs, but are also encouraging consumers to not wait, with over a quarter of a million meters having already been replaced across GB this year. Ofgem has also been contacting local authorities and members of parliament to inform them of planned activity in their area ahead of any switch offs.
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Source: hansard.parliament.uk (2025-10-20)

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Liz Jarvis:To ask the Secretary of State for Energy Security and Net Zero, what estimate he has made of the number of households currently in fuel debt. \p Martin McCluskey: The Government does not have its own estimate of the number of households in fuel debt, but more needs to be done between regulators, suppliers and Government to tackle the problem of energy debt. In December, Ofgem published an updated debt strategy which included the publications of two consultations. The first proposed an energy debt relief scheme for consumers who accrued debt during the energy crisis. The second consulted on ways to improve debt standards. Both of these consultations have now closed and Ofgem will carefully consider the feedback received, and we will stand ready to work closely with them on their findings.
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Source: hansard.parliament.uk (2025-10-20)

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Richard Burgon:To ask the Secretary of State for Energy Security and Net Zero, whether his Department plans to send a delegation to the Third Session of the Intergovernmental Negotiating Committee on the UN Framework Convention on International Tax Cooperation, to be held from 10-19 November 2025 in Nairobi. \p Katie White: The Department for Energy Security and Net Zero, will not be attending the Third Session of the Intergovernmental Negotiating Committee on the UN Framework Convention on International Tax Cooperation, to be held from 10-19 November 2025 in Nairobi.
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Source: hansard.parliament.uk (2025-10-20)

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Mr Alistair Carmichael:To ask the Secretary of State for Energy Security and Net Zero, whether his Department will consider setting a £7m wave energy ringfence in Allocation Round 7 of the Contracts for Difference mechanism. \p Michael Shanks: Allocation Round 7 (AR7) budget details will be published shortly, before the bidding window opens.

Any decisions regarding the AR7 budget, including any minima, maxima or ringfences, are based on a wide range of factors, including an assessment of the pipeline of projects that could participate in the auction. The budget is set to help support effective competition in the CfD auction with the aim of delivering low carbon electricity deployment at low-cost to the consumer and supporting investment in emerging technologies.
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Source: hansard.parliament.uk (2025-10-20)

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Ben Obese-Jecty:To ask the Chancellor of the Exchequer, whether (a) projects and (b) programmes have been added to the Government Major Projects Portfolio since 5 July 2024. \p James Murray: Projects and programmes joining after 5th July 2024 and before end of March 2025 are included in the annual report 24/25. Any projects and programmes joining after March 2025 will be published in Summer 2026 in the annual report 25/26.
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Source: hansard.parliament.uk (2025-10-20)

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Liz Jarvis:To ask the Chancellor of the Exchequer, what progress the Covid Counter Fraud Commissioner has made in recovering public money lost through pandemic-related (a) fraud and (b) non-delivered contracts. \p James Murray: The government is leaving no stone unturned to investigate and recover public funds lost to fraud and error during the pandemic. The Covid Counter Fraud Commissioner will report to Parliament by the end of his term in December 2025.

In his first phase, the Commissioner focused on £1.4 billion of disputed personal protective equipment (PPE) contracts. This revealed that that c.16% of pandemic era PPE contracts failed. Recovery action has resulted in some PPE suppliers being referred to the National Crime Agency for suspected fraud.

The second phase of the Commissioner’s work focused on government-wide recovery activities. In response to his recommendation, Government launched a Voluntary Repayment Scheme and Covid fraud reporting website in September 2025. Claimants who have yet to respond to the voluntary repayment scheme risk court. New powers for the government will make detection easier and allow the government to levy civil penalties, which will ensure that those who have defrauded the taxpayer face the consequences.

The Commissioner is currently preparing his final report, which will include his assessment of further opportunities for action and recommendations to strengthen government procurement, fraud prevention, and recovery in future crises.
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Source: hansard.parliament.uk (2025-10-20)

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Ben Obese-Jecty:To ask the Chancellor of the Exchequer, with reference to the National Infrastructure and Service Transformation Authority Annual Report 2024-25, published on 11 August 2025, what the projects are that have been added to the Government Major Products Portfolio since the 2023-24 financial year. \p James Murray: The projects which have joined the Government Major Projects Portfolio since the 2023-24 financial year are included in the 2023-24 IPA Annual Report, and the 2024-25 NISTA Annual Report.
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Source: hansard.parliament.uk (2025-10-20)

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Matt Vickers:To ask the Chancellor of the Exchequer, what assessment she has made of the potential impact of corporation tax rises on small and medium-sized hospitality businesses. \p Dan Tomlinson: Businesses in our retail, hospitality and leisure sectors are foundational to our economy and our high streets, and we are supporting them to succeed.

The Government published its Corporate Tax Roadmap at Autumn Budget 2024, which commits to maintaining a competitive and sustainable main rate by capping corporation tax at 25 per cent for the duration of this Parliament. The Roadmap also confirms that the small profits rate will be maintained, so companies with profits of £50,000 or less will continue to pay 19 per cent.

The marginal relief for companies with profits of between £50,000 and £250,000 means only around 6 per cent of actively trading companies pay the full main rate. This structure means that most small and medium-sized businesses, including those in the hospitality sector, do not pay the full rate.

In addition, the Government is creating a fairer business rates system that protects the high street, supports investment, and is fit for the 21st century.

As set out at Autumn Budget 2024, the Government will introduce permanently lower tax rates for retail, hospitality, and leisure properties with ratable values below £500,000 from 2026-27. This permanent tax cut will ensure they benefit from much-needed certainty and support.

Ahead of these new multipliers being introduced, the Government prevented the current RHL relief from ending in April 2025, extending it for one year at 40 per cent up to a cash cap of £110,000 per business. We have also frozen the small business multiplier.