News and Events

CAG’s fuel poverty research nearing completion

[Posted: 27 October 2009]

Fuel poverty is a significant issue in the UK. A household is considered to be in fuel poverty if they need to spend more than 10% of their income on all fuel use whilst maintaining an adequate standard of warmth.  The numbers fell to an estimated 4 million households by 2000, but are now rising significantly due to increases in energy costs.

CAG were commissioned by Consumer Focus Scotland to look at the way fuel poverty is addressed in the four UK countries. The research, which we are undertaking with Energy Action Scotland, is looking at two key issues:

• What are the reasons for the differences in fuel poverty rates between the four countries, and how much of this difference is due to differences in the way it is measured? (Within the UK, rates vary from 34.2% in Northern Ireland to 11.1% in Wales); and
• How well does the Scottish Government response compare to that of the other three countries?

The final report is currently being completed, and it will shortly be available.  For further information please contact Gerard Couper on 01364 653003 or at gc@cagconsult.co.uk