BCIA response to Autumn Statement

The BCIA has responded to the Government’s Autumn Statement issued by the Chancellor of the Exchequer, Jeremy Hunt MP, on 22nd November 2023.

BCIA President Graeme Rees has expressed his disappointed at the “minimal support for heat decarbonisation and energy efficiency” in Wednesday’s Autumn Statement.

He said: “This year’s Autumn Statement missed a significant opportunity to incentivise investment from sustainable businesses and drive the decarbonisation of buildings. Overall, there was very minimal support for heat decarbonisation and energy efficiency aside from the decision to expand the VAT relief on energy saving materials to additional measures.

“Looking ahead, it is essential for the Government to recognise Building Controls as a practical and cost-effective solution to enhance the energy efficiency of buildings, with added health and safety benefits. They also offer an effective approach for implementing and developing policy to achieve decarbonisation and energy efficiency objectives. By recognising these benefits and promoting a diverse array of solutions for decarbonising buildings, the Government can facilitate a just transition to Net Zero. This recognition would both instil confidence in the BEMS sector and set the stage for future investments.”

He concluded: “BCIA welcomes the commitment in the Statement to reducing barriers to installing and investing in low carbon technology, with the aim of accelerating the energy transition and we are confident that Building Controls can play a significant role.”