Social Action Plan and Household Energy Efficiency Ofgem Report

This NAO report examines the role of the Office of Gas and Electricity Markets (Ofgem) in relation to the Government's policy aims of eliminating fuel poverty and reducing carbon emissions through improving household energy efficiency. Through its Social Action Plan, Ofgem has developed a range of initiatives to help vulnerable customers, including the elderly, those on benefits or in debt. On this social objective, the report finds that, although numbers in fuel poverty have fallen since the year 2000, it is difficult to measure its overall effect. Concern is raised over research that indicates many low income consumers who use pre-payment meters may not realise this is the most expensive method of payment. NAO recommends Ofgem review their scheme to help pre-payment meter customers in debt switch supplier and enjoy cheaper bills, with the aim of expanding it to include consumers with debts over £100, where appropriate. In relation to the environmental objective, the report's findings include that suppliers appear to have met their energy savings targets, although there is scope for targeting energy efficiency schemes at disadvantaged customers.Great Britain, Comptroller and Auditor General Staff is the author of 'Social Action Plan and Household Energy Efficiency Ofgem Report', published 0000 under ISBN 9780102929188 and ISBN 0102929181.