Last week I continued the campaign to address the problem in the House of Commons at DECC Questions. We are working on a pilot project to address the lack of off grid heating during spring cold snaps that have caught some of local residents out. I have to draft a paper for DECC on this issue, and have already discussed it with one local representative who was at the recent Off Grid meeting with the Minister, but the principle is clear. The Q and A went as follows:
Guy Opperman (Hexham, Conservative)
What steps his Department is taking to ensure that residents of Northumberland who are off the grid have sufficient support during cold weather this winter.
Michael Fallon (Sevenoaks, Conservative)
The Government want everybody to be able to access secure and affordable fuel supplies for heating their homes. This year’s “Buy oil early” campaign was launched on 11 September to encourage consumers to stock up early and join oil-buying groups, where cost savings can be found. I will continue to work through the all-party group and the ministerial roundtable on off-gas grid issues to see what further action is required.
Guy Opperman (Hexham, Conservative)
I thank the Minister for that answer. Our concern should particularly be for vulnerable residents caught out by sudden spring cold snaps. Does he agree that there is scope for a pilot project in Northumberland in which a consortium of oil-buying clubs, parish councils and credit unions could be funded to assist such residents?
Michael Fallon (Sevenoaks, Conservative)
Yes; we very much welcome the development of local initiatives that can help promote a more affordable supply of heating oil to consumers. I look forward to seeing my hon. Friend’s final proposals for a pilot project in Northumberland and will then ask my officials to consider what support might be made available to assist him in taking it forward.
Hansard source (Citation: HC Deb, 17 October 2013, c879) If anyone is interested in being party to such a pilot they should get in touch with the London office and we will give more details.
