2011 viewpoint paper for JRF by Helen Stockton and Ron Campbell, National Energy Action

While the transition to a low carbon society will have obvious environmental benefits, concerns remain over whether it can co-exist with a socially just approach that seeks to protect low-income consumers from higher energy bills.

Contributing to the debate, this paper:

• sets out the key energy policies aimed at carbon reduction and fuel poverty that have direct cost implications for consumers;
• explains the nature of an energy-saving programme which is targeted at households in fuel poverty;
• discusses the potential conflicts that must be averted to ensure a socially just transition to a low carbon society.