Industry NewsThe Conservative-Liberal Democrat coalition aims to develop a new Energy Bill, less than a year after the last one was enacted. The details of the new legislation are minimal at this point, and it is not clear how it may alter or build on that developed by the previous Labour Government. The main aims of the new Energy Bill appear to be similar to the priorities that had been seen previously, namely energy efficiency, a low carbon economy, and energy security. However, the announcement of the new legislation, made in the Queen's Speech which opened Parliament, also highlighted a shift in planning priorities which could impact on new nuclear and wind developments.
Twenty-two Bills were announced in the Queen's Speech, indicating a busy legislative session for the new Government. The coalition's energy policy had been outlined previously, and the new Energy Bill is designed to bring this to fruition. Plans include the development of a 'green' investment bank to help provide funds for energy efficiency projects and renewable power schemes, the development of a smart grid, a more transparent retail market, and a simpler regime for access to North Sea assets. The principles of many of these schemes had already been part of plans indicated by the Government before the election.
However, aims to enhance the use of low-carbon technologies may be impacted by additional legislation to scrap the barely formed Infrastructure Planning Commission (IPC). The Decentralisation and Localism Bill will give more power to local councils on planning issues. The IPC went live in March 2010 as an independent body which could provide the final planning decisions on 'significant infrastructure projects' which were of benefit to the economy of the UK in general. Such schemes were thought to include new wind farms, power lines, and nuclear facilities. The end of the IPC could make it more difficult to develop these projects going forward.
Commenting on the planned Energy Bill, Energy and Climate Change Secretary, Chris Huhne said, "The Queen's Speech and last week's programme of Government make clear that energy security and taking real action to tackle climate change aren't add on extras for this new Government, but are vital to our national interest." He added, "The Energy Bill is designed to help consumers put a stop to wasting energy in their homes through a green deal while making sure our energy system is fit for the 21st century."