RIBA President Simon Allford has backed the House of Commons Environmental Audit Committee's (EAC) Report, published on Thursday 5 January.
Focusing on accelerating the transition from fossil fuels and securing energy supplies, its recommendations could help the Government to achieve its net zero ambition by 2050, Allford said:
"This report echoes our concerns that the Government’s British Energy Security Strategy was a missed opportunity to reduce energy demand – which is vital to decreasing our reliance on fossil fuels.
To get to net zero, the Government will need ambitious measures. The EAC’s call for a clearer fuel poverty target and the upgrading of homes’ energy efficiency should be a national priority - and is one we have long been calling for as a National Retrofit Strategy.
The recommendation to explore greener taxation strategies is also welcome. Measures including variations to the rate of stamp duty, which we have also called for as a tool to incentivise energy efficiency, are a key piece of the puzzle. We will continue to engage with Government by sharing our members’ expertise, as we push towards net zero."
ENDS
Notes to editors:
- Media contact: Sarah.Robertson@riba.org
- The Royal Institute of British Architects (RIBA) is a global professional membership body that serves its members and society to deliver better buildings and places, stronger communities and a sustainable environment. Follow @RIBA on Twitter for regular updates.
