The Royal Institute of British Architects (RIBA) has responded to the Government’s Clean Growth Strategy, launched today (12 October 2017). The strategy sets out the Government’s proposals for decarbonising sectors of the UK economy through the 2020s.
RIBA President Ben Derbyshire said:
“We welcome the Government’s recognition that building energy efficiency is a key component in driving clean growth. However we are concerned that important detailed decisions are being kicked into the long grass yet again with more consultation exercises, the Clean Growth Strategy having been already delayed by two and a half years.
If it is to ensure that social and economic benefits for the UK are maximised, the Government cannot just focus on technological change. Market failures are preventing our sector from deploying energy efficiency upgrades to the built environment and must be urgently addressed.
As the UK grapples with a productivity crisis we know that investing in energy efficiency can help address the balance.
Zero carbon home standards with better consumer oriented labelling, proper tax breaks and incentives for consumers and suppliers of building materials, equipment and financial products are necessary. Allied to a significant programme for domestic energy efficiency upgrades such measures would provide the step change needed.
The RIBA and the Energy Efficiency Infrastructure Group recently set out how the UK could accelerate cost-effective energy efficiency improvements. We encourage the Government to adopt these measures.”
ENDS
Notes to editors:
1. For press information, contact melanie.mayfield@riba.org 020 7307 3662
2. The Clean Growth Strategy can be downloaded from: https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/clean-growth-strategy
3. The Energy Efficiency Infrastructure Group (EEIG), is a collaboration of over 20 organisations including leading industry and trade bodies and consumer groups, think tanks, environmental NGOs and major engineering, energy, construction and insulation businesses. The EEIG’s Action Plan for a comprehensive Buildings Energy Infrastructure Programme, can be downloaded from: https://www.theeeig.co.uk/news
4. The Royal Institute of British Architects (RIBA) is a global professional membership body that serves its members and society in order to deliver better buildings and places, stronger communities and a sustainable environment. Architecture.com
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