Electricity demand reduction is left to consultation

The Energy Bill has failed to make reference to electricity demand reduction measures, instead publishing a consultation on options alongside it.

However, the energy and climate department (DECC) says it will outline its preferred approach early next year; this could lead to an amendment to the bill.

The consultation looks at opportunities for greater electricity use efficiency and barriers to demand reduction. But it points to a wide range of existing policies such as the Green Deal, sectoral climate change agreements (CCAs), the CRC Energy Efficiency Scheme and building regulations. It also refers to the emerging energy efficiency strategy.