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Residential & Commercial Energy EfficiencyAuthor(s): ETI
Published: 2017
Publisher: ETI
Author(s): Lowes, R., Pidgeon, N., Barrett, J., Qadrdan, M., Gross, R. and Wu, J.
Published: 2020
Publisher: UKERC
Author(s): Warren, G. and Foulds, C.
Published: 2020
Publisher: UKERC
Part of the Energy-PIECES project, this report was developed during a secondment at the Energy Savings Trust.
Author(s): Nolden, C., Moya Mose, T., Sugar, K., Kommidi, A. and Fox, S.
Published: 2023
Publisher: UKERC
Author(s): The Energy Zone Consortium
Published: 2013
Publisher: ETI
Author(s): The Energy Zone Consortium
Published: 2013
Publisher: ETI
Author(s): The Energy Zone Consortium
Published: 2013
Publisher: ETI
Author(s): BRE Group
Published: 2013
Publisher: ETI
Author(s): The Energy Zone Consortium
Published: 2013
Publisher: ETI
Author(s): Ramos, M. and Burrows, K.
Published: 2013
Publisher: ETI
Author(s): Ramos, M.
Published: 2013
Publisher: ETI
Author(s): Ramos, M. and Burrows, K.
Published: 2013
Publisher: ETI
Author(s): Burrows, K. and Ramos, M.
Published: 2013
Publisher: ETI
Author(s): Cook, P., Smith, R., Davies, P. and Lake, D.
Published: 2013
Publisher: ETI
Author(s): Cook, P., Davies, P. and Lake, D.
Published: 2013
Publisher: ETI
Author(s): ETI
Published: 2013
Publisher: ETI
Author(s): The Energy Zone Consortium
Published: 2013
Publisher: ETI
Author(s): ETI
Published: 2013
Publisher: ETI
Author(s): Cook, P. and Hall T.
Published: 2013
Publisher: ETI
Author(s): Junemann, S.
Published: 2013
Publisher: ETI
Author(s): Junemann, S., Raslan, R., Burrows, K. and Davies, P.
Published: 2013
Publisher: ETI
Author(s): Junemann, S., Raslan, R., Burrows, K. and Davies, P.
Published: 2013
Publisher: ETI
Author(s): Junemann, S. and Raslan, R.
Published: 2013
Publisher: ETI
Author(s): Junemann, S.
Published: 2013
Publisher: ETI
Author(s): The Energy Zone Consortium
Published: 2013
Publisher: ETI
Author(s): Raslan, R.
Published: 2013
Publisher: ETI
Author(s): ETi
Published: 2013
Publisher: ETI
Author(s): ETI
Published: 2013
Publisher: ETI
Author(s): BRE Group
Published: 2013
Publisher: ETI
Author(s): The Energy Zone Consortium
Published: 2013
Publisher: ETI
Author(s): ETI
Published: 2013
Publisher: ETI
Author(s): Cook, P. and Lake, D.
Published: 2013
Publisher: ETI
Author(s): Cook, P. and Lake, D.
Published: 2013
Publisher: ETI
Author(s): Cook, P. and Lake, D.
Published: 2013
Publisher: ETI
Author(s): Cook, P. and Lake, D.
Published: 2013
Publisher: ETI
Author(s): Cook, P. and Lake, D.
Published: 2013
Publisher: ETI
Author(s): Cook, P. and Lake, D.
Published: 2013
Publisher: ETI
Author(s): Cook, P.
Published: 2013
Publisher: ETI
Author(s): Cook, P.
Published: 2013
Publisher: ETI
Author(s): Cook, P.
Published: 2013
Publisher: ETI
Author(s): Cook, P.
Published: 2013
Publisher: ETI
Author(s): Cook, P.
Published: 2013
Publisher: ETI
Author(s): ETI
Published: 2013
Publisher: ETI
Author(s): Ramos, M.
Published: 2013
Publisher: ETI
Author(s): The Energy Zone Consortium
Published: 2013
Publisher: ETI
Author(s): Ramos, M.
Published: 2013
Publisher: ETI
Author(s): Burrows, K. and Ramos, M.
Published: 2013
Publisher: ETI
Author(s): Bottone, D. and Pope, W.
Published: 2013
Publisher: ETI
Author(s): Bottone, D. and Pope, W.
Published: 2013
Publisher: ETI
Author(s): Bottone, D. and Gaze, C.
Published: 2013
Publisher: ETI
Author(s): Bottone, D. and Pope, W.
Published: 2013
Publisher: ETI
Author(s): Cook, P. and Lake, D.
Published: 2013
Publisher: ETI
Author(s): Cook, P. and Lake, D.
Published: 2013
Publisher: ETI
Author(s): Cook, P. and Lake, D.
Published: 2013
Publisher: ETI
Author(s): Cook, P. and Lake, D.
Published: 2013
Publisher: ETI
Author(s): Cook, P. and Lake, D.
Published: 2013
Publisher: ETI
Author(s): Cook, P. and Lake, D.
Published: 2013
Publisher: ETI
Author(s): Cook, P. and Lake, D.
Published: 2013
Publisher: ETI
Author(s): Cook, P. and Lake, D.
Published: 2013
Publisher: ETI
Author(s): Cook, P. and Lake, D.
Published: 2013
Publisher: ETI
Author(s): Cook, P. and Lake, D.
Published: 2013
Publisher: ETI
Author(s): Cook, P. and Lake, D.
Published: 2013
Publisher: ETI
Author(s): Cook, P. and Lake, D.
Published: 2013
Publisher: ETI
Author(s): Cook, P. and Lake, D.
Published: 2013
Publisher: ETI
Author(s): Cook, P. and Lake, D.
Published: 2013
Publisher: ETI
Author(s): Cook, P. and Lake, D.
Published: 2013
Publisher: ETI
Author(s): Cook, P. and Lake, D.
Published: 2013
Publisher: ETI
Author(s): Cook, P. and Lake, D.
Published: 2013
Publisher: ETI
Author(s): Cook, P. and Lake, D.
Published: 2013
Publisher: ETI
Author(s): Cook, P. and Lake, D.
Published: 2013
Publisher: ETI
Author(s): Cook, P. and Lake, D.
Published: 2013
Publisher: ETI
Author(s): Fawcett, T., Hampton, S. and Mallaburn, P.
Published: 2019
Publisher: UKERC
We welcome the idea of offering more policy support to SMEs to enable the uptake of energy efficiency opportunities, to the benefit of their enterprises, the economy as a whole and the environment. Researchers have previously argued that there is not enough policy focus on SMEs (Banks et al, 2012, Hampton and Fawcett, 2017) and this consultation was valuable as part of a wider process of policy development.
This response covers general issues about design of policy for energy efficiency improvement in SMEs, and offers specific evidence on Option 2: a business energy efficiency obligation.
Author(s): ETI
Published: 2012
Publisher: ETI
Author(s): Energy Endeavours Consortium
Published: 2014
Publisher: ETI
Author(s): Energy Endeavours Consortium
Published: 2013
Publisher: ETI
Author(s): Energy Endeavours Consortium
Published: 2013
Publisher: ETI
Author(s): Morrell, G., Raw, G. and Junemann, S.
Published: 2012
Publisher: ETI
Author(s): Morrell, G., Kahn, L., Junemann, S. and Oreszczyn, T.
Published: 2012
Publisher: ETI
Author(s): Energy Endeavours Consortium
Published: 2013
Publisher: ETI
Author(s): Raw, G., Junemann, S. and Anderson, T.
Published: 2012
Publisher: ETI
Author(s): Energy Endeavours Consortium
Published: 2014
Publisher: ETI
Author(s): ETI
Published: 2012
Publisher: ETI
Author(s): Energy Endeavours Consortium
Published: 2014
Publisher: ETI
Author(s): Energy Endeavours Consortium
Published: 2013
Publisher: ETI
Author(s): Energy Endeavours Consortium
Published: 2013
Publisher: ETI
Author(s): Energy Endeavours Consortium
Published: 2014
Publisher: ETI
Author(s): Watson, J. and Gross, R.
Published: 2017
Publisher: UKERC
This week, the government’s long awaited Clean Growth Strategy will be published. Like many, we will be looking for details of how UK emissions will continue to be reduced to meet the 4th and 5th carbon budgets. In particular, the Strategy will need to explain how a range of increasingly significant policy gaps will be addressed.
The Strategy is likely to be closely followed by the conclusions of the Review of Energy Costs, led by Professor Dieter Helm. Ahead of the Strategy’s publication, we are publishing a briefing paper that covers four key issues that are central to the terms of reference of the Review of Energy Costs – and to the Clean Growth Strategy itself.
Our starting point is that the primary issue is the cost of energy bills for consumers, rather than only the unit price of energy. It is therefore important to focus on measures that can reduce the quantity of energy required for a given level of service as well as trends that could help to reduce or moderate prices. In line with the terms of reference, our briefing paper focuses on electricity costs since UK electricity prices are higher up the European league table than those for gas.
The role that energy efficiency can play in reducing electricity bills needs to be fully addressed. Significant progress in this area remains to be made; savings of up to 10% can be achieved through well designed standards and investment programmes, and a recent UKERC report highlighted that a 25% reduction in household energy demand is possible through cost effective measures. There is a clear rationale for government intervention, to drive energy efficiency and address the policy gap left behind by the failure of the Green Deal. The case is even clearer when considering the additional economic and social benefits that energy efficiency brings.
The creation of new markets help drive technology cost reductions, as does patient government support. Offshore wind is a case in point - achieving much lower than expected prices in the recent Contracts for Difference auctions. If these projects are delivered, this will place offshore wind amongst the cheapest new sources of electricity generation in the UK.
Policy change is required to drive further innovation, yet with investor confidence low, this needs to build on existing policy instruments. A case has been made for moving low carbon technologies into a single competitive auction. However this technology neutral approach favours technologies close to market, failing those which are less developed. Complex technologies such as carbon capture and storage, which have significant potential but high capital expenditure and associated risk, could require a state-led approach to investment, allowing for competition to drive prices down.
The review’s terms of reference clearly state that a systems approach is required. The consideration of technologies within this perspective is imperative, as is developing energy policy within this context. This is particularly relevant for electricity, where a range of mechanisms and markets are used to balance supply and demand in real time.
System flexibility is key to keeping costs down. The cost of integrating renewables into the grid vary widely, with future cost of integrating intermittent power sources, depending upon the availability of cost effective system flexibility. Incentivising flexibility and reforms to the capacity market will be required to facilitate this, and as the proportion of renewables increases, government will need to decide how to account for system costs including those surrounding intermittency.
Innovation is an important driver for reducing costs and bringing technologies to market. However this non-linear process exists with multiple feedbacks between development, demonstration and deployment. Effectiveness is further dependent on incentives for demonstration and market creation, and UKERC research has shown that innovation in the energy sector tends to take three to four decades from early stage R&D to significant commercial deployment.
Analysis has been undertaken by government to establish this evidence base, yet too often this has focused on discrete technologies, with less attention paid to system innovation. It is this system innovation which will be key to the low carbon transition, alongside effective evaluation, to learn and disseminate lessons.
Eye catching initiatives such as the Faraday Challenge for storage are welcome, as is the UK pledge - as part of Mission Innovation - to double clean energy R&D spending between 2015-2020. Whilst a step in the right direction, when considering the scale of the challenge posed by climate change, many argue that government support for innovation at a greater scale is required.
Download the briefing note to read the full submission to Dieter Helm.
Author(s): DNV KEMA Energy & Sustainability
Published: 2013
Publisher: ETI
Author(s): Hitachi Europe Ltd
Published: 2013
Publisher: ETI
Author(s): ETI
Published: 2012
Publisher: ETI
Author(s): DNV KEMA Energy & Sustainability
Published: 2013
Publisher: ETI
Author(s): Hitachi Europe Ltd
Published: 2013
Publisher: ETI
Author(s): The Energy Zone Consortium
Published: 2012
Publisher: ETI
Author(s): ETI
Published: 2017
Publisher: ETI
The ETI Approach was subsequently subjected to testing, evaluation and improvement via the ETI’s “Domestic Retrofit Demonstration Project”.
Author(s): ETI
Published: 2013
Publisher: ETI
Author(s): PRP Architects, Peabody Trust
Published: 2016
Publisher: ETI
Author(s): PRP Architects
Published: 2016
Publisher: ETI
Author(s): PRP Architects Limited
Published: 2016
Publisher: ETI
Author(s): Lipson. M.
Published: 2015
Publisher: ETI
Author(s): Batterbee, J.
Published: 2018
Publisher: ETI
Author(s): Haslett, A.
Published: 2016
Publisher: ETI
Author(s): Lipson, M.
Published: 2018
Publisher: ETI
Author(s): Douglas, J.
Published: 2015
Publisher: ETI
Author(s): Lidstone, L.
Published: 2016
Publisher: ETI
Author(s): Bell, K., Blyth, W., Bradshaw, M., Green, R., Gross, R., Jansem, M., Ostrovnaya, A. and Webb, J.
Published: 2022
Publisher: UKERC
Author(s): Eyre, N. and Wilson, C.
Published: 2013
Publisher: UKERC
This document sets out a response of the UK Energy Research Centre (UKERC) to the Department of Energy and Climate Changes (DECC) consultation Electricity Demand Reduction.
In our response to the consultation on electricity market reform (EMR) we noted the potential importance of demand reduction and demand side response in achieving the Governments goals for the electricity sector of security, emissions reduction and reasonable cost.
All our responses are based on evidence from research by UK academic researchers independent of commercial or other vested interest. One particular focus of the response is on the option of premium payments (otherwise known as energy saving feed-in tariffs). UKERC supported research (Eyre, 2013) is the first peer reviewed academic literature on this topic in the world. We believe that an approach along these linesis consistent with addressing a market bias against energy saving that would otherwise be introduced by EMR proposals in their current form. We begin the response with four key concerns about the evidence base used in the consultation document and its supporting literature. We then respond to some specific questions identified in the consultation document itself.
Author(s): Hitachi, EDF Energy, Imperial College London, Element Energy
Published: 2013
Publisher: ETI
Author(s): Batterbee, J.
Published: 2013
Publisher: ETI
Author(s): Hitachi, EDF Energy, Imperial College London, Element Energy
Published: 2013
Publisher: ETI
Author(s): Anable, J., Brand, C., Eyre, N., Layberry, R., Bergman, N., Strachan, N., Fawcett, T., and Tran, M.
Published: 2011
Publisher: UKERC
This report is one of a series of working papers in the UKERC Energy 2050 project series. It investigated the role of pro-environmental lifestyle change for the UK energy system to 2050. We make two assumptions, both of which seem obvious when stated, but are frequently forgotten or ignored in energy futures work. The first is that the behaviour of energy users is not fixed, but rather the outcome of developments in society, and that these are uncertain with the level of uncertainty increasing over time. The second is that any policy framework that seeks to deliver major changes in the energy system, such as an 80% reduction in CO2 emissions, will be the outcome of a political process in which civil society, i.e. energy users in other roles, will play a key role.
We have used an innovative methodology to combine the strengths of detailed end use models (UK Domestic Carbon Model and UK Transport Carbon Model, both developed at the ECI) and a cost-optimisation model of the whole UK energy system (MARKAL Elastic Demand, developed at UCL).
Author(s): Wade. J. and Eyre. N.
Published: 2015
Publisher: UKERC
Research for the UK Energy Research Centre’s Technology and Policy Assessment (TPA) function shows the importance of increased policy support for energy efficiency programmes, after a strategic review found savings in the region of 10% for well designed and implemented programmes. While multiple policies and programmes have been implemented in the past to encourage improvements in household efficiency, both in the UK and globally, the robustness and accuracy of programme evaluations have been called into question.
The authors carried out a systematic review of the evidence base of peer-reviewed evaluation programmes, drawn from conference papers and 20 different journals, in order to find out what works and where the gaps are, and to inform future programme design.
Author(s): Subtheme Group
Published: 2019
Publisher: Department of Business, Energy and Industrial Strategy
Author(s): Subtheme Group
Published: 2019
Publisher: Department of Business, Energy and Industrial Strategy
Author(s): Fawcett, T.
Published: 2005
Publisher: UKERC
This working paper pulls together and summarises the key information available about energy use and carbon emissions within the UK higher education (HE) sector. In addition it undertakes new analysis based on existing data (some of it unpublished) to provide a better understanding of the sector’s carbon emissions.
Author(s): Heaton, C and Milne, S.
Published: 2016
Publisher: ETI
Author(s): Jones Lang LaSalle Ltd (JLL)
Published: 2018
Publisher: ETI
Author(s): Energy Systems Catapult
Published: 2018
Publisher: ETI
Author(s): Bates, C.
Published: 2018
Publisher: ETI
Author(s): Energy Systems Catapult
Published: 2018
Publisher: ETI
Author(s): Cook, S. and Morgan, J.
Published: 2016
Publisher: ETI
Author(s): Jones Lang LaSalle Ltd (JLL)
Published: 2018
Publisher: ETI
Author(s): Bell, D., Hopkins, M. and Winter, S.
Published: 2018
Publisher: ETI
Author(s): ETI
Published: 2013
Publisher: ETI
Author(s): Baringa Partners LLP
Published: 2014
Publisher: ETI
Author(s): Energy Systems Catapult
Published: 2018
Publisher: ETI
Author(s): Mee, D
Published: 2018
Publisher: ETI
Author(s): Okoli, J.
Published: 2018
Publisher: ETI
Author(s): Lorenzoni, I., ONeill, S., Whitmarsh, L., Otoadese, J., Keay-Bright, S. and John, K.
Published: 2008
Publisher: UKERC
The aim of the workshop was to bring together academics and practitioners from different disciplines and backgrounds in order to ultimately inform more effective approaches to public communication of, and engagement with, climate change and energy reduction. The overarching question to be addressed by the workshop was, What can empirical and theoretical studies of communication and behaviour change tell us about how we might move towards a more climate-friendly (low-carbon, climate resilient) society?. More specifically the workshop objectives were to: share cutting-edge research and practice; foster learning across disciplines and contexts; identify gaps in understanding; form new interdisciplinary contacts and networks; consider and generate new insights; stimulate novel collaborations; provide the contents for a book and a workshop report that would beuseful for academics, practit
Author(s): Lorenzoni, I, ONeill, S, Whitmarsh, L, Otoadese, J, Keay-Bright, S. and John, K
Published: 2008
Publisher: UKERC
The aim of the workshop was to bring together academics and practitioners from different disciplines and backgrounds in order to ultimately inform more effective approaches to public communication of, and engagement with, climate change and energy reduction. The overarching question to be addressed by the workshop was, “What can empirical and theoretical studies of communication and behaviour change tell us about how we might move towards a more ‘climate-friendly’ (low-carbon, climate resilient) society?”. More specifically the workshop objectives were to: share cutting-edge research and practice; foster learning across disciplines and contexts; identify gaps in understanding; form new interdisciplinary contacts and networks; consider and generate new insights; stimulate novel collaborations; provide the contents for a book and a workshop report that would be useful for academics, practitioners and policy-makers. Central to the workshop were three sessions relating to the overarching question: models, messages and media. These sessions involved 10 minute presentations from each of three presenters and a 10 minute response from an invited discussant.
Author(s): Buckman, A.
Published: 2017
Publisher: ETI
Author(s): Cairns, I., Hannon, M., Braunholtz-Speight, T., Hardy, J., McLachan, C., Mander, S., Manderson, E. and Sharmina, M.
Published: 2020
Publisher: UKERC
Commencing in 2016, the Financing Community Energy project provides a comprehensive quantitative and qualitative analysis of the role of finance in the evolution of the UK community energy sector. This report presents the final of our four case studies of UK community energy organisations, exploring how these organisations have sought to finance their projects against a backdrop of diminishing government support for grassroots sustainable development.
Established in 2013, Brighton and Hove Energy Services (BHESCo) primary focus was to develop both renewable energy and energy efficiency projects, whilst also ensuring people have equal access to energy. BHESCo is rather unlike our other community energy case studies in that it operates very much like an Energy Services Company (ESCo), where they accept some degree of responsibility to provide the energy service that its customers ultimately desire (e.g. lighting, ambient temperature), rather than the straightforward supply of heat or electricity.
Author(s): Cairns, I., Hannon, M., Braunholtz-Speight, T., Hardy, J., McLachan, C., Mander, S., Manderson, E. and Sharmina, M.
Published: 2020
Publisher: UKERC
This report presents a case study of Edinburgh Community Solar Cooperative, exploring how it financed the project against a backdrop of diminishing government support for grassroots sustainable development.
This report presents the first of four case studies of UK community energy organisations, exploring how these organisations have sought to finance their projects against a backdrop of diminishing government support for grassroots sustainable development.
Edinburgh Community Solar Cooperative (ECSC) is a Community Benefit Society (BenCom). Its objectives are a combination of environmental and social, with an explicit focus on reducing emissions, alleviating fuel poverty, improving energy security and promoting sustainable development education.
ECSC quickly settled on renewable power generation as a means of delivering this combination of environmental andsocial value. Today it operates 1.4 MW of solar PV panels on the roofs of 24 council-owned properties in Edinburgh, including schools, leisure centres and community halls.
Author(s): Cairns, I., Hannon, M., Braunholtz-Speight, T., Hardy, J., McLachan, C., Mander, S., Manderson, E., Sharmina, M.
Published: 2020
Publisher: UKERC
Commencing in 2016, the Financing Community Energy project provides a comprehensive quantitative and qualitative analysis of the role of finance in the evolution of the UK community energy sector. This report presents the second of four case studies of UK community energy organisations, exploring how these organisations have sought to finance their projects against a backdrop of diminishing government support for grassroots sustainable development.
Green Energy Mull (GEM) is a Community Benefit Company (BenCom) that owns and operates Garmony Hydro; a 400 kW run-of-the-river hydro scheme on the island of Mull, off the west coast of Scotland.
Author(s): Energy Systems Catapult
Published: 2016
Publisher: ETI
Author(s): Energy Systems Catapult
Published: 2016
Publisher: ETI
Author(s): Watkins, J. and Farrington, J.
Published: 2016
Publisher: ETI
Author(s): Watkins, J. and Farrington, J.
Published: 2016
Publisher: ETI
Author(s): Energy Systems Catapult
Published: 2017
Publisher: ETI
Author(s): Stabler, L. and Foulds, C.
Published: 2020
Publisher: UKERC
At present, Governments commitment stands in sharp contrast with its inaction on heat decarbonisation to date. Under pressure to progress this agenda, Government has charged the Clean Heat Directorate with the task of outlining the process for determining the UK’s long-term heat policy framework, to be published in the Roadmap for policy on heat decarbonisation in the summer of 2020 (BEIS, 2017). This report, resulting from one of six EPSRC-funded secondments, is designed to support early thinking on the roadmap by answering the research question: How can Transitions research informs the roadmap for governing the UKs heating transition?
Delivered as part of the Energy-PIECES project, this report was developed during a secondment with BEIS.
Author(s): AECOM Ltd
Published: 2017
Publisher: ETI
Author(s): Ross, D.
Published: 2017
Publisher: ETI
Author(s): AECOM Ltd
Published: 2017
Publisher: ETI
Author(s): AECOM Ltd
Published: 2017
Publisher: ETI
Author(s): Clarke, D.
Published: 2016
Publisher: ETI
Author(s): ETI
Published: 2014
Publisher: ETI
Author(s): ETI
Published: 2014
Publisher: ETI
Author(s): DNV GL
Published: 2014
Publisher: ETI
Author(s): DNV GL
Published: 2014
Publisher: ETI
Author(s): ETI
Published: 2015
Publisher: ETI
Author(s): Haf, S. and Robison, R.
Published: 2020
Publisher: UKERC
Local Authorities role in the energy transition and working with their citizens in doing so, has been recognised as crucial to paving transition paths. Material collated within this report is intended to better inform Energy Cities and its partners, Local Authorities and Municipalities, civil society groups and others interested in how citizens can be supported and encouraged to participate in energy system developments as a part of the energy transition. The findings in this report are therefore intended to directly help Local Authorities across Europe in implementing more participative approaches to their governance practices in energy systems.
Delivered as part of the Energy-PIECES project, this report was developed during a secondment with Energy Cities.
Author(s): Crawley, J., Ogunrin, S., Taneja, S., Vorushlyo, I. and Wang, X.
Published: 2020
Publisher: UKERC
Author(s): Banks, N.
Published: 2008
Publisher: UKERC
Energy Performance Certificates (EPCs) have been a requirement on sale of all domestic property since December 2007 as part of the introduction of Home Information Packs (HIPs). This report examines how this requirement has been implemented by those on the receiving end of the legislation – the software designers, the domestic energy assessors, the estate agents, the conveyancing solicitors and the householder. Bearing in mind the stated objectives of the EPC, the report then makes a number of recommendations for improving the operation of the scheme.
Author(s): Novikova, A., Keay-Bright, S. and Palmer, J.
Published: 2006
Publisher: UKERC
The workshop aimed to explore how the flexible mechanisms of the Kyoto Protocol could better capture the large energy efficiency potential in the CEE region. While implementation of the mechanisms in the region is desired, in practice it is likely to be a challenging task. The workshop has made it possible for two interested groups to meet and learn from each other: one group being participants from the CEE region seeking knowledge transfer and capacity building, and the other group being carbon trading specialists.
Author(s): Lowes, R. and Woodman, B.
Published: 2018
Publisher: UKERC
This briefing paper summarises the key policy implications from the last of three working papers published by the Heat Incumbency Transitions Team. This research has investigated the role and behaviour of heat market incumbents in relation to the decarbonisation of heat.
Key messages
Author(s): Lowes, R., Woodman, B. and Clark, M.
Published: 2018
Publisher: UKERC
The project investigated issues surrounding the decarbonisation of heating, which is increasingly seen as a priority by energy policy makers. It considers the move towards low carbon heating from the perspective of incumbency, a topic which has received only limited focus.
Prior research has suggested that incumbent businesses can have both positive and negative influences on decarbonisation. There are examples of large companies investing in low carbon energy and driving change but there are also examples of incumbents trying to resist change therefore slowing or blocking decarbonisation.
This paper focuses on what the policy implications of incumbency in the UK heat sector are for the decarbonisation of UK heat. The paper reports on a large number of interviews with experts working across the UK heat sector. This evidence is further built on using grey sources of literature and data.
Author(s): Snell, C. and Bevan, M.
Published: 2018
Publisher: UKERC
Despite disabled people and low-income families with children being defined in policy as vulnerable to fuel poverty, there is very little evidence about how the needs of these groups are recognised or incorporated into policy decisions. There is alsono clear evidence on how energy efficiency policies actually affect these groups, and whether policy outcomes are consistent across the UK.
This policy briefingauthored by University of Yorks Department of Social Policy and Social Work (SPSW) and ACE Research, explores some of the key gaps in knowledge regarding justice in energy efficiency policy in the UK. The focus was on the impact of energy efficiency policies on disabled people, those with long-term illnesses and low-income households with children.
The delivery of energy efciency policy is variable and patchy, with vulnerable groups ingreatest need not always eligible for support, or receiving support which fails to reflect their additional needs. To improve access for vulnerable groups and to meet their needs more effectively, the authors recommenda greater recognition of the needs of vulnerable groups, more consistent approaches across the UK and better cooperation with non-energy sectors.
The researchidentifies five key barriers to accessing vital fuel poverty support mechanisms and suggests ways in which access and outcomes can be improved for all.
Author(s): Turton, A. and Woods,P.
Published: 2012
Publisher: ETI
Author(s): Neeson, C.
Published: 2011
Publisher: ETI
Author(s): Mooney Kelly NIRAS Ltd
Published: 2012
Publisher: ETI
Author(s): Meidl, P., Sipowicz, M., Murshed, S.M., Jumel, S., Jobson, M., Oluleye, G., OHanlon, I., McKeon, K., Griessbaum, N., Nichersu, A.
Published: 2012
Publisher: ETI
Author(s): ETI
Published: 2013
Publisher: ETI
Author(s): ETI
Published: 2013
Publisher: ETI
Author(s): ETI
Published: 2013
Publisher: ETI
Author(s): ETI
Published: 2013
Publisher: ETI
Author(s): Turton, A. and Woods,P.
Published: 2012
Publisher: ETI
Author(s): Caterpillar
Published: 2013
Publisher: ETI
Author(s): Woods, P.
Published: 2012
Publisher: ETI
Author(s): Barton, M., Kirton, A., Silletti, B., Smith, R., Gautier, L., Neeson, S., McKoen, K., McWilliam, L. and Jobson, M
Published: 2010
Publisher: ETI
Author(s): Darby, S. and Rowlands, I.
Published: 2008
Publisher: UKERC
This workshop brought together 36 experts including policy makers and advisors, scientists and residential electricity management stakeholders to provide a neutral forum, under Chatham House rules, for full and frank dialogue relating to sharing lessons learned and developing strategies and policy recommendations emerging from managing residential electricity demand in the UK and Ontario, Canada. This was an opportunity to reflect upon our various roles within the broader context of residential electricity demand management. The aim of the workshop was to draw out recommendations and actions for demand reduction, load management and carbon reduction. The workshop outputs will provide a base for continued collaboration and identification of new research initiatives.
The workshop explored three objectives: 1. Share lessons learned from the UK and Ontario, Canada regarding demand response and demand reduction initiatives
2. Examine possible strategies; and
3. Develop policy recommendations and actions for demand reduction, load management and carbon reduction.
Author(s): Sorrell, S.
Published: 2010
Publisher: SPRU, University of Sussex
Author(s): Smith, W., Pidgeon, N., Demski, C. and Becker, S.
Published: 2024
Publisher: UKERC
Author(s): Sharick, A. and Webb, J.
Published: 2016
Publisher: UKERC
UKERC co-hosted a meeting last month with DECC and ETI to seek input and feedback on plans for the 300 million in heat network capital expenditures announced in the government's Spending Review.Amber Sharick, UKERC Business Engagement Manager, andJan Webb, UKERC Researcher & Professor of Sociology of Organisations, University of Edinburgh, report on the discussions.
Author(s): Lander, D., Patterson, M., Preston-Barnes, H. and Iles, P.
Published: 2011
Publisher: ETI
Author(s): Preston-Barnes, H.
Published: 2010
Publisher: ETI
Author(s): ETI
Published: 2011
Publisher: ETI
Author(s): ETI
Published: 2011
Publisher: ETI
Author(s): Gemmell, A.
Published: 2011
Publisher: ETI
Author(s): Carter, E.
Published: 2011
Publisher: ETI
Author(s): Bontemps, N., Esteve, A., McKoen, K. and Mermond, Y.
Published: 2011
Publisher: ETI
Author(s): Raslan, R., Strachan, N. and Oreszczyn, T.
Published: 2010
Publisher: ETI
Author(s): Oreszczyn, T., Hamilton, I., Mavrogianni, A., Oikonomou, E., Raslan, R., Smith, A., Spataru.C. and Stone, A
Published: 2011
Publisher: ETI
Author(s): Preston-Barnes, H. and Patterson, M.
Published: 2011
Publisher: ETI
Author(s): Patterson, M., Preston-Barnes, H. and Oreszczyn. T,
Published: 2011
Publisher: ETI
Author(s): Oikonomou, E., Oreszczyn, T., Shipworth, D. and Stone, A.
Published: 2010
Publisher: ETI
Author(s): Pride, R.D., Patterson, M. and Preston-Barnes, H.
Published: 2010
Publisher: ETI
Author(s): Lowes, R. and Woodman, B.
Published: 2020
Publisher: UKERC
The paper investigates the importance of governance for energy system change and specifically investigates some of the areas where the UKs net zero target implies significant infrastructure change or expansion, namely in industry and associated with buildings and transport.
Author(s): Rafa, N. and Khalid, R.
Published: 2024
Publisher: UKERC
Despite these benefits, barriers such as regulatory gaps, cultural inertia within the construction sector, and lack of consumer awareness hinder MMCs widespread adoption. In light of current challenges, the study underscores the imp
Author(s): Beaumont, N., Bell, K., Flower, J., Gross, R., Hanna, R., Qadrdan, M., Rhodes, A., Speirs, J., Taylor, P., Webb, J. and Wu. J.
Published: 2022
Publisher: UKERC
Author(s): The Energy Zone Consortium
Published: 2012
Publisher: ETI
Author(s): Parag, Y. and Strickland, D.
Published: 2009
Publisher: UKERC
This working paper explores what people may need to know, learn and have if aPersonal Carbon Allowances (PCA) scheme was implemented, and suggests ideas forpolicies, programmes and initiatives that could support them. A PCA scheme impliesthat individuals would have a personal budget of carbon credits, which they wouldneed to manage, to some extent, in order to stay within its limits, and in the bestcase scenario earn some money by selling not-needed carbon credits. Thus, thispaper looks at the budgeting process from the carbon account holders view pointand applies insights from how people budget under monetary and non-monetaryconstrains to the study of PCA. It also highlights related policy design issues.
The paper is composed of two sections. The first sets PCA in the policy contextalongside other existing and proposed emissions reduction policies. Next it explainsthe mechanisms through which PCA supposes to change energy demand behaviourand then describes the current discourse surrounding PCA in the UK. The secondsection lays out the rational for examining PCA through the lense of budgeting andpoints at questions arising from the concept of living within a carbon budget. It then discusses in detail the prerequisites for carbon budgeting, which include: setting the budgetary limits; knowing personalised carbon income and expenditure; having low carbon alternatives; having the opportunity to perform low carbon choices; receiving advice and support; and learning how to trade. This is followed by a short concluding section.
Author(s): Bottrill, C.
Published: 2006
Publisher: UKERC
Personal carbon trading (PCT) is a proposed quantity-based policy instrument for reducing the carbon emissions emitted by individuals. The aim of the scheme would be to deliver guaranteed levels of carbon savings in successive years in an equitable way. A PCT scheme would set a total cap on all carbon emissions generated from the fossil fuel energy used by individuals within the home and for personal transport, including those emissions from air travel. In the UK these personal emissions account for approximately half of all carbon emissions. A PCT scheme would be part of an economy-wide emissions trading scheme.
Author(s): Keay-Bright, S., Fawcett, T. and Howell, R.
Published: 2008
Publisher: UKERC
A recent Government study into personal carbon trading1 (PCT) concluded that as a policy instrument PCT has potential to engage individuals in taking action to combat climate change, but is essentially ahead of its time and expected costs for implementation are high.2 . Yet, at the same time Defra has recognised that further research is being taken forward by academics and research institutions outside of Government, and Defra will keep a watching brief on their progress3 . PCT related research studies being undertaken in different universities and institutions across the UK, or overseas, have not yet been brought together in a coherent way and interaction between researchers has been limited. In addition, the Defra studies have highlighted some areas for further research. Thus, the key aims of the workshop were to:
These key aims have largely been met. In the Appendix of the main report is a document setting out the research interests of the workshop participants, giving a flavour of who is doing what where. The Climate Policy journal has expressed interest in publishing a special issue on PCT in early 2010. Papers for this special issue are now being coordinated by the Environmental Change Institute of the University of Oxford.
Author(s): Keay-Bright, S, Fawcett, T. and Howell, R.
Published: 2008
Publisher: UKERC
A recent Government study into personal carbon trading1 (PCT) concluded that as a policy instrument PCT has potential to engage individuals in taking action to combat climate change, but is essentially ahead of its time and expected costs for implementation are high.2 . Yet, at the same time Defra has recognised that further research is being taken forward by academics and research institutions outside of Government, and Defra will keep a watching brief on their progress3 . PCT related research studies being undertaken in different universities and institutions across the UK, or overseas, have not yet been brought together in a coherent way and interaction between researchers has been limited. In addition, the Defra studies have highlighted some areas for further research. Thus, the key aims of the workshop were to:
These key aims have largely been met. In the Appendix of the main report is a document setting out the research interests of the workshop participants, giving a flavour of who is doing what where. The Climate Policy journal has expressed interest in publishing a special issue on PCT in early 2010. Papers for this special issue are now being coordinated by the Environmental Change Institute of the University of Oxford.
Author(s): Snell, C., Bevan, M., Gillard, R., Wade, J. and Greer, K.
Published: 2018
Publisher: UKERC
The Policy Pathways to Justice in Energy Efficiency working paper addresses two key gaps in knowledge regarding justice in energy efficiency policy in the UK. Despite disabled people and low-income families with children being defined in policy as vulnerable to fuel poverty, there is very little evidence about how the needs of these groups are recognised or incorporated into policy decisions. There is alsono clear evidence on how energy efficiency policies actually affect these groups, and whether policy outcomes are consistent across the UK.
The research was undertaken by researchers at the University of York andACE Researchand was supported byDisability Rights UKandThe Childrens Society. One hundred and twenty-five households and practitioners were interviewed as part of the research. In addition to this working paper, acondensed policy guide is also available, as well as separate guides for practitioners who focus on theneeds of disabled people, andfamilies on low incomes.
The research team found that disabled people and low-income families with children often had higher energy demands within the home compared to other households. These increased demands are often associated with keeping warm, additional laundry needs, and in some cases using energy intensive equipment such as dehumidifiers and nebulisers. These circumstances lead to both increased household energy costs and higher risks associated with disconnection and a drop in household temperature.
Despite these needs, and the intention of policy to support households in this position, interviewees described accessing information and advice about energy and energy efficiency as a minefield, high levels of mistrust in the energy sector, and finding it difficult to know where to go and which sources to trust.
The report reveals the delivery of energy efciency policy is variable and patchy, with vulnerable groups in greatest need not always eligible for support or receiving support which fails to reflect their additional needs. To improve access for vulnerable groups and to meet their needs more effectively, the report recommends there be a greater recognition of the needs of vulnerable groups, more consistent approaches across the UK and better cooperation with non-energy sectors.
The report identifies five key barriers to accessing vital fuel poverty support mechanisms and suggests ways in which access and outcomes can be improved for all.
Author(s): Hirmer, S.A. and Robison, R.
Published: 2020
Publisher: UKERC
Energy is a crucial element for development in almost every aspect of community life such as education, health, food, and security, and it can contribute to farming productivity, income generation, and the creation of networks that enable youth to work from their villages. Despite this, around 1 billion people globally do not have access to sustainable energy sources, and 80% of those people live in rural areas across 20 countries in Asia and sub-Saharan Africa. To decrease this energy access gap, and to improve rural livelihoods and increase economic opportunities in rural areas, Productive Uses of Energy (PUE) offer an untapped opportunity: examples of PUE include irrigation and post-harvest processing.
Despite the benefits of PUE, they are often not considered in the planning off-grid rural electrification developments. This may be partially attributed to a lack of capital; riskyframework conditions; and a lack of clear policy guidelines available on the subject. The latter of which was the focus of this research project.
Delivered as part of the Energy-PIECES project, this report was developed during a secondment with Practical Action.
Author(s): Watson, J., Ekins, P., Gross, R., Froggatt, A., Barrett, J., Bell, K., Darby, S., Webb, J., Bradshaw, M., Anable, J., Brand, C., Pidgeon, N., Demski, C. and Evensen, D.,
Published: 2017
Publisher: UKERC
UKERCs 2017 Review of Energy Policy, appraises energy policy change over the last 12 months, and makes a series of recommendations to help meet the objectives of the governments Clean Growth Plan.
Our main recommendations are:
Author(s): Watson, J., Bradshaw, M., Froggat, A., Kuzemko, C., Webb, J., Beaumont, N., Armstrong, A., Agnolucci, P., Hastings, A., Holland, R., Day, B., Delafield, G., Eigenbrod, F., Taylor, G., Lovett, A., Shepard, A., Hooper, T., Wu, J., Lowes, R., Qadrdan, M., Anable, J., Brand, C., Mullen, C., Bell, K., Taylor, P. and Allen, S.
Published: 2019
Publisher: UKERC
Author(s): Gross, R., Bell, K., Brand, C., Wade, F., Hanna, R., Heptonstall, P., Kuzemko, C., Froggatt, A., Bradshaw, M., Lowes, R., Webb, J., Dodds, P., Chilvers, J. and Hargreaves, T.
Published: 2020
Publisher: UKERC
In this issue of UKERCs annual Review of Energy Policy, we discuss some of the effects of COVID-19 on the energy system and how the unprecedented events of 2020 might impact energy use and climate policy in the future.
Focusing on electricity demand, transport, green jobs and skills, Brexit, heat, and societal engagement, the Review reflects on the past year and looks forward, highlighting key priorities for the Government.
Key recommendations
Electricity
The scale of investment in the power system required over the coming decade is huge. A big challenge is market design. We need a market that can incentivise investment in low carbon power and networks at least cost whilst also providing incentives for flexibility. Output from wind and solar farms will sometimes exceed demand and other timesfallto low levels. The right mix of flexible resources must be established to deal with variable output from renewables, with the right market signals and interventions in place to do this at least cost.
Mobility
The end of the sale of fossil fuel cars and vans by 2030 must be greeted with enthusiasm. Yet if this is to play its part in a Paris-compliant pathway to zero emissions, it must be one of many policy changes to decarbonise UK transport. Earlier action is paramount, and we recommend a market transformation approach targeting the highest emitting vehicles now, not just from 2030. Phasing-in of the phase-out will save millions of tons of CO2 thus reducing the need for radical action later on. The forthcoming Transport Decarbonisation Plan has a lot to deliver.
Green jobs and skills
COVID-19 recoverypackages offer the potential to combine job creation with emissions reduction. A national housing retrofit programme would be a triple win, creating jobs, reducing carbon emissions and make our homes more comfortable and affordable to heat. However, UKERC research finds that there are significant skills gaps associated with energy efficient buildings and low carbon heat. UKERC calls for a national programme of retraining and reskilling that takes advantage of the COVID downturn to re-equip building service professions with the skills needed for net zero.
Brexit
As the UK leaves the EU on the 1st January it will lose many of the advantages of integration. With new regimes for carbon pricing, trading, and interconnection yet to be agreed, there will be a high degree of uncertainty in the near to medium term. Given upward pressure on energy costs,delays to policy, and this uncertainty surrounding new rules, the overall effects of Brexit are not positive for UK energy decarbonisation.
Heat
UKERC research calls for action on heat to deliver the net zero technologies that we know work - insulating buildings and rolling out proven options. We need to end delay or speculation about less-proven options. Analysis is consistent with recent advice from the CCC that heat policy should focus on electrification whilst exploring options for hydrogen. We need to break the pattern of ad hoc and disjointed policy measures for heat and buildings, and develop a coherent, long-term strategy. This would be best achieved as an integral part of local and regional energy plans, involving local governments as coordinating agents. The aspirations for heat cant be realised unless we also take actionon the skills gap.
Societal engagement with energy
Achieving net zero in 2050 will entail significant changes to the way we live, what we eat and how we heat our homes. The COVID-19 pandemic has shown that when faced with a threat, society can change rapidly. Engaging society with the net zero transition also needs to change, it needs to be to be more ambitious, diverse, joined-up and system-wide, and recognise the many different ways that citizens engage with these issues on an ongoing basis.
Author(s): Watson, J., Ekins, P., Bradshaw, M., Wilson, G., Webb, J., Lowes, R., Bell, K., Demski, C., Snell, C., Bevan, M., Waddams, C., Anable, J. and Brand, C.
Published: 2018
Publisher: UKERC
As we reach the end of 2018, the scorecard for UK energy policy is mixed. Optimists can point to rapid emissions reductions, cost falls in renewables and the centrality of clean energy within the Industrial Strategy. Ten years after the Climate Change Act was passed, UK greenhouse gas emissions have fallen by 43% from the level in 1990. The UK is on the way to meeting the first three carbon budgets, and a transformation of the power sector is well underway.
However, if we turn our attention from the rear view mirror, the outlook is more pessimistic. As the Committee on Climate Change pointed out in June, there are an increasing number of policy gaps and uncertainties. If not addressed promptly, meeting future carbon budgets will be much more challenging. For some of these gaps, there is a particularly clear and immediate economic case for action.
The government needs to take urgent action to ensure that the UK continues to meet statutory emissions reduction targets, and goes further to achieve net zero emissions. This not only requires new policies to fill looming gaps in the portfolio, it also requires much greater emphasis on sharing the benefits and costs of the low carbon transition more equitably. Our main recommendations are:
Author(s): Watson, J., Ekins, P., Wright, L., Eyre, N., Bell, K., Darby, S., Bradshaw, M., Webb, J., Gross, R., Anable, J., Brand, C., Chilvers, J., and Pidgeon, N.
Published: 2016
Publisher: UKERC
This review takes stock of UK energy policy ahead of the Autumn Statement, Industrial Strategy and new Emissions Reduction Plan. Its main recommendations are:
Author(s): Flett, G., Kelly, N. and McGhee, R.
Published: 2018
Publisher: UKERC
Energy System Demonstrators are physical demonstrations testing new technologies for low-carbon energy infrastructure.
A review of energy systems demonstrator projects in the UK was undertaken for UKERC by the Energy Systems Research Unit (ESRU) at the University of Strathclyde. The review encompassed 119 demonstrators and consisted of two phases: 1) the identification of demonstrator projects and 2) an analysis of projects and their outcomes.
The review defined an energy system demonstrator as “the deployment and testing of more than one technology type that could underpin the operation of a low-carbon energy infrastructure in the future”. Only demonstrators that post-date the 2008 Climate Change Act were included and that included a physical demonstration at one or more UK sites. 119 projects were identified that met the search criteria.
There were two phases of review activity. Phase 1 involved identification and documentation of demonstration projects, involving a systematic search to identify and record the details of projects. Phase 2 was a review of project outcomes and outputs, particularly end-of-project evaluations, covering technical, economic and social outcomes where available.
The review outputs (available here) are a final report summarising the findings, 119 demonstrator project summaries (the Phase 1 reports), 119 demonstrator output analyses (the Phase 2 reports) and a GIS (Geographic Information System) map and database showing the locations and project details of the demonstrators.
The final report, attendant project summaries and GIS data are intended to provide policy makers and funding bodies with an overview of the existing demonstrator “landscape”, enabling decisions on future demonstrator calls and the focus of those calls to be made with a clearer knowledge of what has already been done.
Author(s): Slowe, J.
Published: 2013
Publisher: ETI
Author(s): Batterbee, J.
Published: 2016
Publisher: ETI
Author(s): Haines, V., Lawton, C. and Spencer, J.
Published: 2014
Publisher: ETI
Author(s): ETI
Published: 2016
Publisher: ETI
Author(s): ETI
Published: 2017
Publisher: ETI
Author(s): Jones Lang LaSalle Ltd (JLL)
Published: 2014
Publisher: ETI
Author(s): Jones Lang LaSalle Ltd (JLL)
Published: 2014
Publisher: ETI
Author(s): ETI
Published: 2013
Publisher: ETI
Author(s): Snell, C. and Bevan, M.
Published: 2018
Publisher: UKERC
Too often fuel poverty is thought of as an issue that only impacts older disabled people, but the reality is that fuel poverty blights the lives of disabled people of any age: from children, to adults of working age, to older people.
The evidence gathered through the Policy Pathways to Justice in Energy Efficiency project is based on in-depth research conducted with national policy makers, with stakeholders who implement energy efficiency policy and with households on low incomes. It provides a clear picture of the energy needs of families on low incomes and of what needs to happen to make a real difference in their lives.
This guide for practitioners takes these findings and turns them into practical steps for people working in the fuel poverty and energy efficiency sectors supporting disabled people.
Author(s): Snell, C. and Bevan, M.
Published: 2018
Publisher: UKERC
Fuel poverty remains a pressing issue for over 4 million households in the UK today. Families with children living on low incomes are at particular risk of experiencing fuel poverty, and its effects can penetrate deep into everyday life and into the practical, social and emotional worlds of those who encounter it.
The evidence gathered through the Policy Pathways to Justice in Energy Efficiency project is based on in-depth research conducted with national policy makers, with stakeholders who implement energy efficiency policy and with households on low incomes. It provides a clear picture of the energy needs of families on low incomes and of what needs to happen to make a real difference in their lives.
This guide for practitioners takes these findings and turns them into practical steps for people working in the fuel poverty and energy efficiency sectors.
Author(s): IEA
Published: 2011
Publisher: International Energy Authority
Author(s): Barker, T. and Jenkins K.
Published: 2007
Publisher: UKERC
One of the objectives of the research under the UKERC’s quantitative modelling effort is the review and development of models of energy use by the domestic sector. The aim of this paper is to describe version 3 of the Domestic Energy Sub-model, which models household energy use in the UK as a sub-model within the UK multisectoral dynamic model of the UK energy-environment-economy (E3) system maintained by Cambridge Econometrics MDM-E3. The paper does so by describing the structure of the model and development of different versions of the sub-model, with an outline of the appliances and thermal characteristics of domestic buildings included.
The paper then goes on to explain how households use thermal energy services and describes the characteristics of the buildings and appliances which are included in the model. Finally the paper describes the data collection methodology used to update the model’s dataset from 1995 to 2004 for version 3. Such a description allows the reader to see how the model is structured and how the results of the model are generated, based on the historical data.
Author(s): Qadrdan, M., Woodman, B. and Wu, J.
Published: 2023
Publisher: UKERC
Author(s): Sorrell, S.
Published: 2007
Publisher: UKERC
This report analyses the nature, operation and importance of rebound effects and provides a comprehensive review of the available evidence on this topic, together with closely related issues, such as the link between energy consumption and economic growth. It assesses the strengths and weaknesses of the evidence base, clarifies the underlying disputes and highlights the implications for energy and climate policy. The key message is that promoting energy efficiency remains an effective way of reducing energy consumption and carbon emissions. But more explicit treatment of rebound effects is needed to assess the contribution that energy efficiency can realistically make.
Author(s): Dimitriopolous, J. and Sorrell, S.
Published: 2006
Publisher: UKERC
The rebound effect results in part from an increased consumption of energy services following an improvement in the technical efficiency of delivering those services. This increased consumption offsets the energy savings that may otherwise be achieved and potentially undermines the rationale for policy measures to encourage energy efficiency.
The nature, definition and magnitude of the rebound effect are the focus of longrunning disputes with energy economics. This paper brings together previous theoretical work to provide a rigorous definition of the rebound effect, clarify key conceptual issues and highlight the consequences of various assumptions for empirical estimates of the effect. The focus is on the direct rebound effect for a single energy service - indirect and economy-wide rebound effects are not discussed.
Beginning with Khazzoom’s original definition of the rebound effect, we expose the limitations of three simplifying assumptions on which this definition is based.
First, we argue that capital costs form an important part of the total cost of providing energy services and that the higher cost of energy efficient conversion devices will reduce the magnitude of the rebound effect in many instances.
Second, we argue that energy efficiency should be treated as an endogenous variable and that empirical estimates of the rebound effect may need to apply a simultaneous equation model to capture the joint determination of key variables.
Third, we explore the implications of the opportunity costs of time in the production of energy services and highlight the consequences for energy use of improved ‘time efficiency’, the influence of time costs on the rebound effect and the existence of a parallel rebound effect with respect to time.
Each of these considerations serves to highlight the difficulties in obtaining reliable estimates of the rebound effect and the different factors that need to be controlled for. We discuss the implications of these findings for econometric studies and argue that several existing studies may overestimate the magnitude of the effect.
Author(s): Watson, J., Ketsopoulou, I., Dodds, P., Chaudry, M., Tindemans, S., Woolf, M. and Strbac, G.
Published: 2018
Publisher: UKERC
Energy security is a central goal of energy policy in most countries and with rapid changes occurring throughout the UK energy sector, it remains high on the policy agenda. Recent concerns about UK gas supplies - highlighted by National Grid's gas deficit warning demonstrated just how fundamentally important it is to have a reliable energy system.
Using a number of indicators, ‘The Security of UK Energy Futures’ assesses aspects of security such as energy availability, reliability, sustainability and affordability to examine how energy security risks will change over time
The report draws three main conclusions:
Author(s): Howell, R.
Published: 2009
Publisher: UKERC
The overall objective of this research was to determine whether the operation of the CRAGs movement, and the experiences of individuals involved, can offer any useful information about the process of individual/household level carbon footprint reductions, the psychological effects of having a carbon allowance and trading system, and therefore any issues for consideration in the design of a Personal Carbon Trading policy. The specific aims were therefore:
Author(s): Rosenow, J., Lowes, R., Broad, O., Hawker, G., Wu, J,. Qadrdan, M. and Gross, R.
Published: 2020
Publisher: UKERC
Author(s): Katris, A., Turner, K., McEwen, N., Munro, F., Cairney, P. and McHarg, A.
Published: 2020
Publisher: UKERC
Energy Efficient Scotland (EES) is a large scale energy efficiency improvement programme to be implemented in Scotland. Over a 20-year period, currently scheduled to start in 2020, an amount in excess of 10billion is planned to be directed to the improvement of the energy efficiency in domestic and non-domestic buildings.
Funding for energy efficiency projects will come not only from the Scottish Government but also private interest-free and low interest loans as well as the successor(s) to the Energy Company Obligation (ECO). Aside from directing investment funds to the Scottish economy, promotion and support of energy efficiency through programmes such as EES, is one of the few instruments at the Scottish Governments disposal to conduct energy policy, especially on the energy demand side.
EES was officially announced in May 2018 with the publication of the EES Route Map. At that time the UK was already in the process of leaving the European Union: commonly referred to as Brexit.
Brexit, regardless of its final shape (which is currently unknown), is expected to affect policies in multiple ways including limitations to EU funds, skilled labour movement restrictions and increased import prices to name a few examples (among the potential impacts highlighted by different studies, reported in a 2018 Institute for Government report ). The magnitude and the exact nature of any impacts will be affected by the exact form that Brexit will have. In this shifting socio-economic landscape, EES will undoubtedly be affected in a range of ways.
In this working paper,we explore the funding limitations that Brexit could introduce to EES. Specifically, we identify two EES funding mechanisms that are likely to be affected; government-issued grants and privately-provided loans. For different reasons, these mechanisms are of paramount importance in order to achieve the EES goals as specified in the EES Route Map.
Author(s): Khalid, R. and Foulds, C.
Published: 2020
Publisher: UKERC
Author(s): Lowe, R. and Halliday, J.A.
Published: 2014
Publisher: UKERC
UKERC ENERGY RESEARCH LANDSCAPE: ENERGY EFFICIENCY RESIDENTIAL & COMMERCIAL
Author(s): Eyre. N. and Buruah. P.
Published: 2014
Publisher: UKERC
This Working Paper explores the uncertainties in energy demand in the residential heating sector in the UK. This paper presents new quantified scenarios for residential energy use in the UK to 2050. These address both factors that are exogenous to the energy system, such as population, but also some systemically different approaches to delivering residential heat.
This work was undertaken as part of the UK Energy Strategies Under Uncertainty project.
Author(s): UKERC
Published: 2020
Publisher: UKERC
The UK Energy Research Centre (UKERC) is in its fourth five-year phase of research and engagement activities, which will run until April 2024. In addition to the core programme of research, a number of mechanisms have been put in place to ensure that participation in UKERC is broad, flexible and addresses the needs of the wider UK research community.
A Flexible Fund of around £3m (valued at 80% FEC) has been set up in order to commission new research and facilitate the integration of the existing programme. The Fund is overseen by UKERC’s independent Research Committee. The key aims of the Fund are:
This report presents the outputs of two key consultation activities on potential Flexible Fund topics :
Author(s): Bell, K., Eyre, N., Hawker, G., Castagneto Gissey, G., Dodds, P., Darby, S., Irvine, J., Paul, G. and Watson J
Published: 2017
Publisher: UKERC
Scope of the Call for Evidence and objectives in respect of flexibility
We welcome the attention being paid by Ofgem and BEIS to the need for flexibility in Britain’s electricity system. In our view the main reason to support electricity system flexibility is that it can help minimise the costs of meeting the UK’s statutory climate targets whilst ensuring that system security is not compromised. The electricity system’s ability to adapt to changing demand in timescales of years down to minutes and varying availability of power from different resources will be extremely important to meeting these policy goals. Furthermore, action is needed so that those consumers that are best able to adapt their patterns of use of electricity have sufficient incentives and rewards for doing so. One manifestation of the main goal in accommodating future generation and demand is an objective to maximise the utilisation (across each year of operation) of electricity system assets, i.e. generators, network components and storage facilities.
Whilst the title of the call for evidence focuses on ‘a smart, flexible energy system’, most of the raised relate to the electricity system. We have therefore focused most of our responses on electricity rather than the energy system as a whole. Our responses are selective. We have only answered those questions where we can offer relevant evidence, based on our research and expertise.
Author(s): Darby, S
Published: 2017
Publisher: UKERC
Scope of the Call for Evidence and objectives in respect of flexibility
We welcome the attention being paid by Ofgem and BEIS to the need for flexibility in Britain’s electricity system. In our view the main reason to support electricity system flexibility is that it can help minimise the costs of meeting the UK’s statutory climate targets whilst ensuring that system security is not compromised. The electricity system’s ability to adapt to changing demand in timescales of years down to minutes and varying availability of power from different resources will be extremely important to meeting these policy goals. Furthermore, action is needed so that those consumers that are best able to adapt their patterns of use of electricity have sufficient incentives and rewards for doing so. One manifestation of the main goal in accommodating future generation and demandis an objective to maximise the utilisation (across each year of operation) of electricity system assets, i.e. generators, network components and storage facilities.
Whilst the title of the call for evidence focuses on ‘a smart, flexible energy system’, most of the raised relate to the electricity system. We have therefore focused most of our responses on electricity rather than the energy system as a whole. Our responses are selective. We have only answered those questions where we can offer relevant evidence, based on our research and expertise.
This document only answers questions 28 -32 inclusive. Another document is available http://ukerc.rl.ac.uk/UCAT/PUBLICATIONS/Response_to_Ofgem-BEIS_call_for_evidence-smart_flexible_energy_system.pdf which gives answers to other questions in the consultation.
Author(s): Sorrell, S. and Dimitropoulos, J.
Published: 2007
Publisher: UKERC
One interpretation of the so-called Khazzoom-Brookes postulate is that all costeffective energy efficiency improvements will increase energy consumption above where it would be without those improvements. This is a counterintuitive claim for many people and requires strong supporting evidence if it is to gain widespread acceptance. The main conclusion from this review is that such evidence does not exist.
Author(s): Sorrell, S.
Published: 2007
Publisher: UKERC
The aim of this Supplementary Note is to provide a graphical analysis of rebound effects and in particular to clarify the distinction between income and substitution effects for consumers and output and substitution effects for producers. This permits a clearer understanding of how rebound effects operate. The analysis draws upon standard neoclassical theory and is informed in particular by the insightful discussions of the rebound effect by Berkhout et al (2000) and Binswanger (2001).
Author(s): Sorrell, S. and Dimitropoulos, J.
Published: 2007
Publisher: UKERC
This report examines the evidence for direct rebound effects that is available from studies that use econometric techniques to analyse secondary data. The focus throughout is on consumer energy services, since this is where the bulk of the evidence lies. The evidence relevant to direct rebound effects for producers is discussed separately in Technical Reports 3, 4 and 5.
This report clarifies the theoretical and methodological issues associated with such estimates, highlights the strengths and limitations of different approaches and summarises the available evidence for direct rebound effects for consumer energy services, paying particular attention to personal automotive transportation.
Author(s): Broadstock, D., Hunt, L. and Sorrell, S.
Published: 2007
Publisher: UKERC
The elasticity of substitution between energy and other inputs is also a crucial variable for Computable General Equilibrium (CGE) models of the macro-economy. The assumptions made for this variable can have a major influence on model results in general and estimates of the rebound effect in particular.
These observations suggest that a closer examination of the nature, determinants and typical values of elasticities of substitution between energy and other inputs could provide some useful insights into the likely magnitude of rebound effects in different sectors. This was the motivation for this report, which includes an in-depth examination of empirical estimates of the elasticity of substitution between energy and capital. However, the empirical literature on this subject is confusing and contradictory and more than three decades of empirical research has failed to reach ac
Author(s): Allan, G, Gilmartin, M, Turner, K, McGregor, P and Swales K.
Published: 2007
Publisher: UKERC
Author(s): Eyre, N., Boardman, B., Bagdanavicius, A., Skea, J. and Hardy, J.
Published: 2010
Publisher: UKERC
The UK Energy Research Centre welcomes this opportunity to provide input to the to the DECC Consultation on the proposed RHI financial support scheme. The UKERC response addresses a number of the questions posed in the consultation document.
Author(s): Hardy, J.
Published: 2009
Publisher: UKERC
The analysis in the UKERC Energy 2050 report broadly agrees with that presented in the Heat and Energy Saving Strategy. There is no correct way to achieve the carbon emission reductions from buildings but it is clear that both demand reduction and the electrification of heat technologies are key elements.
There is evidence that appropriate feedback of energy information to consumers does lead to better control of, and therefore, lower energy use this indicates a need for a rapid roll out of smart meters and a rapid end to estimated billing.
UKERC suggests that the potential for the economy in terms of long-term, sustainable job creation is seriously underplayed in this consultation exercise. The current economic crisis presents an opportunity for helping to shape the economic recovery through investment in improving the sustainability of heat supply, especially in buildings.
Author(s): Eyre, N., Rosenow, J., Wade, J., Wilson, C. and Lowe, R.
Published: 2012
Publisher: UKERC
This document sets out the response of the UK Energy Research Centre (UKERC) to DECCs consultation document on the Green Deal and the Energy Company Obligation. It is based on the research and experience of the contributing UKERC authors. In line with UKERCs goals, the objective is to bring evidence to bear on the proposals, rather than to support or oppose any specific policy.
Our working assumption is that the proposals form a key part of the Governments plans to deliver significant carbon savings from the UK building stock, to improve affordable warmth, to promote sustainable jobs in the UK and to do so at a reasonable cost to Government and consumers. Our comments attempt to analyse the effectiveness with which the proposals might do this. This introduction is followed by a summary of the key points, drawing together our analysis of the key strengths and weaknesses of the proposals. This followed by more detailed sections on:
Author(s): Sansom, R., Jenkins, N., Chaudry, M., Eyre, N., Watson, J.
Published: 2013
Publisher: UKERC
This document sets out the response of the UK Energy Research Centre (UKERC) to the Energy and Climate Change Committee’s Inquiry on Heat.
We would always encourage a “whole systems approach” to energy, certainly including heat with electricity, and ideally transport as well. Such an approach is more likely to encourage consistency between sectors, avoiding perverse incentives but also it is more likely to lead to the discovery of optimal solutions.
In the call for evidence, the Committee makes the comment that there is disagreement concerning the un-used heat from thermal electricity generation with some arguing that this should be used through combined heat and power (CHP) systems, while others suggest optimal energy efficiency occurs through centralised electricity generation plus heat pumps at the local level.
Heat exhausted from large thermal generators has very little use as most of the useful energy has been extracted to produce electricity. A typical temperature of the “exhausted heat” is around 30°C which is too low for district heating systems. This requires heat to be extracted at a higher temperature, circa 90°C, but this does result in lower electricity output from the thermal generators. Typically, 7 units of heat generated by a CHP unit will result in the reduction of 1 unit of electricity output. This contrasts with air source heat pumps where the ratio is 1 unit of electricity to 3 units of heat (typically).
Hence CHP is much more energy efficient but of course district heating system infrastructure is required. Opponents of CHP systems cite this as the major stumbling block but they ignore the electricity infrastructure cost, mainly distribution but also transmission and generation that would be required for heat pumps. They also ignore the customer based cost of the heat pumps, upgrades to home heating systems, etc. Once these costs are all included the economics for CHP are much improved.
A further point to make is that heat provided by CHP will have the lowest carbon emissions compared to other fossil fuel-based heat generation. For example, using typical values, a condensing gas boiler emits circa 210 g/kWht 1 and an electric heat pump circa 120g/kWht 2 . However, for a CHP it is circa 60g/kWht 3
Thus our overall opinion is that CHP (electricity and heat production) and district heating (which encompasses all forms of heat production as well as heat network and other associated infrastructure) do not receive the attention they deserve.
Author(s): Eyre, N. and Baruah, P.
Published: 2014
Publisher: UKERC
Direct use of fossil fuels is the main source of space heating in the UK and this drives a major part of national greenhouse gas emissions. Climate stabilisation therefore implies a systemic change in approaches to space heating, involving some combination of radical efficiency improvement and low carbon fuels. The challenge in this area for the UK is made particularly difficult because of the combination of the legal commitment to an 80% reduction in emissions by 2050, an old building stock and a very high penetration of natural gas as a heating fuel.
This paper presents new quantified scenarios for residential energy use in the UK to 2050. These address both factors that are exogenous to the energy system, such as population, but also some systemically different approaches to delivering residential heat.
Author(s): Wilson, C. and Chrysochoidis, G.
Published: 2013
Publisher: UKERC
Author(s): Rosenow, J., Guertler, P., Sorrell, S. and Eyre, N.
Published: 2017
Publisher: UKERC
Author(s): Turner, K., Katris, A., Calvillo., Stewart, J. and Zhou, L.
Published: 2023
Publisher: UKERC
Author(s): Frontier Economics
Published: 2017
Publisher: ETI
Author(s): Frontier Economics
Published: 2014
Publisher: ETI
Author(s): Frontier Economics
Published: 2015
Publisher: ETI
Author(s): Frontier Economics
Published: 2015
Publisher: ETI
Author(s): Frontier Economics
Published: 2015
Publisher: ETI
Overall, we find that HEMS and cavity wall insulation are the only interventions which are likely to have payback periods within such a window given BMET default assumptions.
This document was prepared at the time to contribute to ETI internal thinking and planning only.
Author(s): Frontier Economics
Published: 2015
Publisher: ETI
Author(s): Frontier Economics
Published: 2015
Publisher: ETI
Author(s): Frontier Economics
Published: 2015
Publisher: ETI
Author(s): Frontier Economics
Published: 2015
Publisher: ETI
Author(s): Frontier Economics
Published: 2015
Publisher: ETI
Author(s): Frontier Economics
Published: 2015
Publisher: ETI
Author(s): Frontier Economics
Published: 2015
Publisher: ETI
Author(s): Frontier Economics
Published: 2015
Publisher: ETI
Policies such as these will succeed or fail based on their ability to overcome barriers to the take up of low-carbon heating interventions. As many of these barriers are intrinsically difficult to model, many of the most useful insights from this exercise are qualitative in nature, and these are summarised.
In the remainder of this document, we set out the framework used for the quantitative analysis, and present results for each policy in turn.
This document was prepared at the time to contribute to ETI internal thinking and planning only.
Author(s): ETI
Published: 2012
Publisher: ETI
Author(s): Mohamad, S. Mansourim C. and Bouchachia, H.
Published: 2018
Publisher: ETI
Author(s): Favaro, A. and Zhihan Xu
Published: 2017
Publisher: ETI
Author(s): Mohamad, S. and Bouchachia, H.
Published: 2018
Publisher: ETI
Author(s): Ngoc Canh Duong, Jamil, W. and Bouchachia , H.
Published: 2018
Publisher: ETI
Author(s): Favaro, A., Lowery, C. and Zhihan Xu
Published: 2018
Publisher: ETI
Author(s): Favaro, A., Zhihan Xu and Lowery, C.
Published: 2018
Publisher: ETI
Author(s): Jamil, W. and Bouchachia, H.
Published: 2018
Publisher: ETI
Author(s): Mohamad, S. and Bouchachia, H.
Published: 2018
Publisher: ETI
Author(s): Mohamad, S. Mansourim C. and Bouchachia, H.
Published: 2018
Publisher: ETI
Author(s): Beckhelling, J.
Published: 2017
Publisher: ETI
Author(s): Mindframe Consulting
Published: 2015
Publisher: ETI
Author(s): Energy Systems Catapult
Published: 2017
Publisher: ETI
Author(s): Beckhelling, J.
Published: 2015
Publisher: ETI
Author(s): Beckhelling, J.
Published: 2015
Publisher: ETI
Author(s): Mindframe Consulting
Published: 2015
Publisher: ETI
Author(s): Energy Systems Catapult
Published: 2018
Publisher: ETI
Author(s): Energy Systems Catapult
Published: 2018
Publisher: ETI
Author(s): De la Cruz, M.
Published: 2017
Publisher: ETI
Author(s): Korais, E.
Published: 2017
Publisher: ETI
Author(s): Ove Arup and Partners Ltd
Published: 2017
Publisher: ETI
Author(s): Ove Arup and Partners Ltd
Published: 2017
Publisher: ETI
Author(s): Ove Arup and Partners Ltd
Published: 2017
Publisher: ETI
Author(s): Energy Systems Catapult
Published: 2018
Publisher: ETI
Author(s): Energy Systems Catapult
Published: 2018
Publisher: ETI
Author(s): De la Cruz, M.
Published: 2017
Publisher: ETI
Author(s): Energy Systems Catapult
Published: 2016
Publisher: ETI
Author(s): Energy Systems Catapult
Published: 2016
Publisher: ETI
Author(s): Energy Systems Catapult
Published: 2018
Publisher: ETI
This document sets out the evidence base in support of a local energy strategy for Bury.
Key conclusions
Author(s): Korais, E.
Published: 2017
Publisher: ETI
Author(s): Korais, E.
Published: 2017
Publisher: ETI
Author(s): Jones Lang LaSalle Ltd (JLL)
Published: 2016
Publisher: ETI
Author(s): Jones Lang LaSalle Ltd (JLL)
Published: 2016
Publisher: ETI
Author(s): Jones Lang LaSalle Ltd (JLL)
Published: 2016
Publisher: ETI
Author(s): Jones Lang LaSalle Ltd (JLL)
Published: 2016
Publisher: ETI
Author(s): Energy Systems Catapult
Published: 2018
Publisher: ETI
Author(s): Korais, E.
Published: 2018
Publisher: ETI
Author(s): Energy Systems Catapult
Published: 2016
Publisher: ETI
Author(s): Energy Systems Catapult
Published: 2018
Publisher: ETI
Author(s): Energy Systems Catapult
Published: 2017
Publisher: ETI
Author(s): Brookes, P. and Mee, D.
Published: 2018
Publisher: ETI
Author(s): Tingey, M., Braunholtz-Speight, T., Hawkey, D., McLachlan, C. and Webb, J.
Published: 2018
Publisher: UKERC
We welcome the Welsh Government’s interest in locally owned renewable energy. Our response draws on a range of research undertaken by the Heat and the City research group at the University of Edinburgh, including a UK-wide study of local authorities and energy; and on the Financing Community Energy research project being led by Tyndall Manchester.
In our response we made the following general comments, before responding to individual points raised in the call:
Author(s): Webb, J., Tingey, M. and Hawkey, D.
Published: 2017
Publisher: UKERC
Social Scientists at the University of Edinburgh reveal that energy activities of UK local authorities focus on heat and energy efficiency for a low carbon, low energy building stock.
This research maps energy initiatives across all UK Local Authorities for the first time, revealing considerable regional and national variation in activity. The research also examines a sample of energy projects in depth from 40 local authorities and compares local authority engagement in Britain and Europe.
Local authority energy initiatives were found to be innovative and enterprising, with multiple objectives from income generation and carbon saving, to reducing fuel poverty. Developments are however hampered by austerity in public finances, lack of local powers over energy and policy uncertainty.
Author(s): Vorushylo, I., Ogunrin, S., Ghosh, R., Brandoni, C. and Hewitt, N.J.
Published: 2020
Publisher: UKERC
Steering Committee consisting of female representatives from key organisations in the NI heat sector, including the Department for the Economy, the Utility Regulator, a local renewable industry group (NIRIG), the transmission and distribution system operators (NI Electricity Networks and SONI), an energy charity (NEA Northern Ireland), the Consumer Council and a public affairs consultancy (Stratagem).
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