People-focused budget supports hard-pressed households, apprentices and industrial communities through the energy transition

Reacting to the Chancellor’s 2025 Autumn Budget, Executive Director of the Aldersgate Group, Rachel Solomon Williams, said: “The Chancellor’s Autumn Budget took positive steps to cut household electricity costs by moving levies from bills into general taxation. This will help to ensure a just transition and support the electrification of heating and transport. However, the planned closure of the Energy Company Obligation scheme will need to be balanced through a strong Warm Homes Plan, and delivery of the government’s commitment to upgrade 5 million homes by 2030.

“For many businesses, high electricity costs continue to be a major barrier to further electrification. Industry represents 12% of the UK’s total greenhouse gas emissions, but only around 3% of industrial process heat is currently electrified. Targeted support for the manufacturing and industrial sectors is essential if they are to play their part in the transition and retain crucial industries within the UK.

“We also strongly welcome the support for North Sea workers, including investment in industrial projects in Grangemouth alongside the forthcoming publication of a Call for Evidence on the fuel sector. With jobs in the oil and gas sector declining, the government should build on this positive announcement, working with industry and local communities to ensure the transition enables regional renewal and not deindustrialisation. Changes to the apprenticeship system will help more young people access opportunities in the green economy.

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