The question “Can the UK deliver its true energy saving potential?” was posed at the recent ESTA Energy Efficiency Summit held on 22 October 2015 at the Ricoh Arena in Coventry.
The conference was attended by several hundred energy professionals as an opportunity to question industry experts and voice opinions on the energy developments in the United Kingdom.
The afternoon session was given over to the question covering the current UK energy policy, such as ESOS, SMIP and EDR, and whether they provide the drivers for national energy efficiency.
In a simple “show of hands” poll, it was evident that a significant proportion of the audience were obligated under the ESOS (Energy Savings Opportunity Scheme) Regulation shows that only a small proportion, less than 10% thought that they would follow-through on the energy savings.
Energy costs and rental returns for commercial buildings are converging promoting a greater dialogue on the energy performance between the Landlord and Tenant. Although, much of the energy performance needs to be specified and agreed with both parties to ensure that there is a shared benefit of implemented energy savings.
Rates of return, individual organisation’s appetite for risk and returns, implementation cycles, distribution of cost savings and other factors will play heavily on whether organisations engage in energy saving opportunities in the short- to medium-term.
Within this mix of responsibilities and energy saving opportunities, it will be interesting to see how the UK Government can design a coherent energy and carbon framework that will provide a clear way forward from the confusion of constantly changing policies, such as CRC, for a more consistent low-carbon future.
If you want to catch-up on the conference presentations, please follow the link