ECA asks: why are electricity prices four times more expensive than gas?

ECA asks: why are electricity prices four times more expensive than gas?

Leading electrotechnical and engineering services body ECA has called for the next leader of the Conservative Party to transform the way energy is taxed, to make sure Net Zero energy sources are incentivised, and consumers’ bills are reduced.

ECA, which represents 3,000 Member businesses in the electrical and engineering services sector, has made three immediate proposals for the next Prime Minister:

Clarity on the use of ‘green’ taxes from our fuel bills to show fair investment in Net Zero infrastructure
Bringing parity gas and electricity taxes in fuel bills
In the long-term, moving incentives for low carbon energy into general taxation.

“ECA has been championing the vital role of the electrical sector in the transition to Net Zero for many years now,” ECA Director of Workforce and Public Affairs Andrew Eldred said.

“In light of this week’s leadership debate, where energy bills and Net Zero were at the fore, we want to remind the candidates that now is the time to refresh outdated energy policies, incentivise renewable energy generation, and ultimately bring down the skyrocketing cost of energy for Britain’s homes and businesses.”

In 2021, 40% of the UK’s electricity was generated from renewable energy sources. However, fuel taxes on domestic electricity bills are 20% higher than on gas, meaning renewable energy is more heavily taxed.

Research shows that rebalancing ‘green’ taxes, called levies, on electricity and gas will help to drive down the cost of electricity and reduce customers’ bills. E.on says this policy could see £100 saved per year for up to 70% of households.

“This is the big-ticket issue for the next Prime Minister, and the opportunity to create a fairer, greener energy infrastructure in Britain cannot be squandered,” added Andrew Eldred.

“This week’s devastating heatwave should give ample warning to the next Prime Minister that climate change cannot be ignored. The quickest way to enact real, lasting change is to make it easier for British households to access cheap, clean energy and to know how their taxes are being used to make Net Zero happen.”