THE Plumbing and Heating Federation (SNIPEF) has backed the UK Government’s announcement of a UK-wide clean energy jobs plan.
The organisation described it as an ‘important and positive move’ that recognises the essential role of plumbing and heating engineers who will install, maintain, and decommission the low-carbon systems that make clean energy possible.
However, the federation cautioned that affordability must remain central to the green transition.
The call comes after the Tony Blair Institute for Global Change urged the government to reconsider its target to decarbonise the electricity system by 2030, warning that the rush to build new renewable capacity could push up energy costs and strain supply chains. The Institute argued that clean power must be affordable power if it is to deliver economic growth and public support.
Fiona Hodgson, chief executive of SNIPEF, said, “We fully support the government’s ambition to build a cleaner, more secure energy future and we are pleased that this announcement recognises the vital contribution of plumbers and heating engineers. Too often, the focus is on infrastructure and large projects, when in fact it is our skilled tradespeople who bring these technologies to life in people’s homes and communities.
“Our recent letter to the secretary of state for energy security and net zero, Rt Hon Ed Miliband MP, raised the same concern now being discussed by the Tony Blair Institute. Electricity prices remain disproportionately high compared with gas, which discourages households from switching to low-carbon heating. The green transition is essential, but it must not add to cost-of-living pressures or undermine consumer confidence.
“This is a moment to bring policy ambition and practical delivery together. Our members are the professionals who will make clean heating work on the ground. With the right support and a fair approach to costs, the UK can deliver both a green transition and a just one.”
