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Heating: Housing

Asked by Ben GoldsboroughLabourDepartment for Energy Security and Net ZeroTabled Answered 8 September 2026UIN 24494

The question

To ask the Secretary of State for Energy Security and Net Zero, what consumer protections are in place for vulnerable and low-income households unable to afford electrical heating solutions where Building Regulations prevent the reinstallation of higher-carbon heating appliances.

Answered by Department for Energy Security and Net Zero

Tackling high energy costs is a central priority for the Government. We are removing VAT from domestic electricity bills from 1 October, building on the average £150 reduction in energy bills announced at the last Budget. Around 6 million families are benefiting from the expanded Warm Home Discount.

All Government-supported heat pump installations must be certified under the Microgeneration Certification Scheme (MCS), giving consumers access to additional redress routes. Consumers should first raise concerns with their installer, consumer code or certification body.

We are committed to reforming the consumer protection system for Government supported home upgrades and are consulting on proposals.

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