The cheapest, safest and most secure form of energy is the energy we do not use. That is why energy efficiency must be allowed to compete on equal terms with new supply capacity. Energy efficiency means the construction of fewer new generating plants and reduced network infrastructure investment combined with greater resilience and lower carbon emissions.
DECC estimated in 2012 that investment in socially cost-effective energy efficiency to 2020 would save energy equivalent to the output of 22 power stations.
In the past, UK energy policy has focussed heavily on the supply side as opposed to reducing demand for energy.
We take an integrated view and see domestic and industrial demand reduction as a key part of our transition to a decentralised energy future.