NICEIC Head of Standards, Dani Putney, examines political party manifestos to assess their plans for the building services industry before the general election.
Dani commented: “The outcome of the UK election (scheduled for 4 July 2024) will significantly affect policies, funding, and regulations related to energy, climate, and the electrotechnical industry as a whole.”
“To create a more sustainable future, achieve net zero targets, and overcome challenges presented by the sector’s green skills gap, NICEIC is calling for the upcoming government to prioritise investing in apprenticeships and domestic energy efficiency upgrades. There also needs to be clear information regarding the 2025 fossil boiler ban.”
The main political parties have now published their manifestos. Dani says: “While all parties have touched upon various aspects of the wider construction industry – from affordable housebuilding to the inevitable planning reform – commitment is somewhat unclear. There’s some promising consistency emerging, even though some messages are mixed. For example, there appears to be a focus across the board on addressing the skills gap and formulating energy strategies.”
Manifestos: here’s what you need to know
Conservatives
Conservatives’ plan aims to cut the cost of tackling climate change, while sticking with its 2050 net zero target. It also pledges to treble offshore wind, scale up nuclear, partly through using new small modular reactors, and promises no new green levies or charges.
Labour
Labour aims to achieve clean power by 2030 by doubling onshore wind, tripling solar power, and quadrupling offshore wind. Additionally, Labour will establish Great British Energy, a state-owned company backed by £8.3 billion, and will not issue new licenses for North Sea oil and gas fields.
Liberal Democrats
Liberal Democrats aim to develop an industrial strategy that prioritises renewable energy and other key sectors. They have pledged to achieve net-zero greenhouse gas emissions by 2045 at the latest.
Green Party
Green Party proposes to halt all new fossil fuel extraction in Britain, phase out nuclear power, and rely more on wind and solar energy.
Reform
Reform intends to overhaul the planning system to accelerate house building and infrastructure projects. Additionally, they plan to abandon the net-zero targets and associated subsidies while fast-tracking licences for North Sea gas and oil extraction. They also promise to prioritise the rapid development of clean nuclear energy.
“We’ll keep an eye on outcomes and keep our certified businesses posted on how any changes will impact the industry,” says Dani.