Campaign asks UK government to boost renewable energy use in rural communities

A new campaign, titled “ready for renewable”, is calling for fair low carbon energy options for rural communities, highlighting that millions of off-grid households risk being left behind in the UK’s net-zero transition.

The initiative, which brought together rural stakeholders, national press and MPs from the Rural Parliamentary Labour Party (RPLP), asks for policymakers to ensure rural areas and their unique energy needs are recognised in the renewable energy transition.

Around 4.4 million households in the UK are off the gas grid and face complex challenges in decarbonising. According to Liquid Gas UK, the trade association for LPG and bio-LPG, shows 36% of UK homes are not suitable for a heat pump often due to structural and financial limitations. In addition, 76% of rural people say they would be supportive of a policy that allows them to continue using their existing boiler on renewable fuels beyond 2035.

“People need practical, affordable energy choices that reduce emissions while keeping homes warm,” said Francesca Kirtley-Paine, Public Affairs Manager at Liquid Gas UK. “The difference between what heating system works efficiently for a modern, urban home, versus older off-grid properties is stark.”

Nearly 200,000 UK homes currently use LPG with around 25 million litres of bio-LPG already being supplied – a figure which is anticipated to grow six times over by 2030. Moreover, the industry has the potential to create more than 12,500 jobs by 2045, supporting several important rural industries such as agriculture, distilling, leisure and hospitality.

“Rural people deserve to have a choice over how to heat their homes, while also reducing their emissions,” added Kirtley-Paine. “This campaign highlights the availability of alternative decarbonisation options for all, ensuring rural communities are fairly included in the transition and that no one is left behind.”

Source: Liquid Gas UK

Photo: Liquid Gas UK