Fifth Report - Local government and the path to net zero

The government agrees with the importance of local authorities for a just net zero transition and commits to establishing a Local Net Zero Forum, chaired by BEIS, to clarify delivery roles for local government and provide a coordinated engagement route into central government.

The government commits to establishing a Local Net Zero Forum, chaired by BEIS, to clarify central and local government roles, support the delivery of a just transition, and discuss additional powers local authorities may need to meet climate targets.

The government commits to establishing a Local Net Zero Forum, chaired by BEIS, to clarify central and local government roles, support the delivery of a just transition, and discuss additional powers local authorities may need to meet climate targets.

The government clarifies that BEIS is responsible for overall net zero coordination with local authorities, while DLUHC acts as a steward for the local government finance and planning systems, advising BEIS on local engagement and policy design.

The government explains that supply chain analysis projects heat pump installations could reach over 320,000 annually by 2025, supported by significant growth in domestic manufacturing. It details targeted funding for training and tax relief to foster a thriving UK supply chain, citing examples of manufacturers investing in UK production.

The government accepts the recommendation by detailing an existing 35-action plan to improve EPC accuracy, with 11 actions completed and further work underway including SAP methodology reviews. It also commits to consider the performance gap as part of a forthcoming Statement of Intent.

The government commits to enhancing its Simple Energy Advice service for homeowners, publishing a UK Hydrogen Strategy in due course, and conducting a large-scale hydrogen trial in 2026. For local authority support, the response refers to further information in the response to recommendation 9.

The government details over £6.4 million in funding already provided to local authorities for MEES enforcement, including pilot studies and an enforcement competition. It also committed in the Net Zero and Heat and Buildings Strategies to introduce a compliance and exemptions database to support local authority enforcement.

The government reiterates its National Bus Strategy, outlining how local authorities are developing Bus Service Improvement Plans and detailing existing funding streams for bus services. It also highlights significant investment for Light Rail schemes through the £5.7 billion City Region Sustainable Transport Settlements fund.

The government reiterates its National Bus Strategy, outlining how local authorities are developing Bus Service Improvement Plans. It details existing funding for bus services and highlights significant investment for Light Rail schemes through the £5.7 billion City Region Sustainable Transport Settlements fund, demonstrating how it is making good on its promises.

The government acknowledges the crucial role of local authorities and describes existing initiatives, such as the £100 million Prospering from the Energy Revolution programme and the Local Net Zero Programme, which aim to support local capability and access to funding for decarbonisation.