The CRC Energy Efficiency Scheme (CRC) is a new mandatory UK-wide scheme that was brought into law via the CRC Energy Efficiency Scheme Order 2010 (SI 2010/768) (the ‘CRC Order'). The scheme is designed to incentivise large public and private sector organisations to take up cost-effective energy efficiency opportunities through the application of reputational and financial drivers.
Objectives of the consultation
This consultation was undertaken by DECC as a result of stakeholder feedback and Government's stated intention to review the operation and design of the scheme. The proposed amendments detailed within this document primarily focused on extending the introductory phase and postponing the first allowance sale of phase two. This will facilitate future amendments to be made as a result of the broader simplification review. It will also provide participants with an additional year's experience managing compliance and performance within the introductory phase. Other amendments include information disclosures, the treatment of Northern Ireland departments and the updating of a number of references in the original CRC Order.
Supporting papers
To download the consultation document, please follow the link below.
CIBSE Response
CIBSE agrees with the Government’s proposal to extend the introductory phase and the associated amendments. However, many participants who have spent a great deal of time and effort already to prepare for the CRC may feel that this effort has been wasted, whilst those who have not prepared are being rewarded for their behaviour.
CIBSE understands the Government’s wish to reduce burdens on smaller registrants. However, the removal of the disclosure requirement must be linked to a clear commitment to analysis of the data received to date.
CIBSE does not agree with the Government’s proposal to amend the landlord/ tenant rule in respect of Northern Ireland departments. Officials have previously taken a very tough stance on the treatment of landlords and it seems exceptional, inconsistent and unfair that relief should be applied to the public sector now.
To read the full CIBSE response, please follow the link below.
CIBSE also submitted supplementary information regarding paragraph 27 of the consultation document:
"Government reiterates that landlords have the greatest ability to influence a building's energy consumption".
CIBSE is deeply concerned that this is being presented as, effectively, government policy. Not only is this view technically flawed, it also contradicts current legislative requirements imposed by government. To read the full supplement that was submitted, please follow the link below.
Results of the consultation and next steps
The Government published the summary of responses to this consultation in February 2011. To download the document, please follow the link below.
- Government response to the consultation on amendments to the CRC Energy Efficiency Scheme Order 2010
In light of stakeholders’ broad support for the proposed amendments, the Government will make and lay an Amendment Order before Parliament, the Scottish Parliament, National Assembly for Wales and the Northern Ireland Assembly via the negative resolution process - with the Order coming into force on 1 April 2011.