Debate On The Introduction Of Energy Rebates For Highlands And Islands At UK Parliament 6 March

3rd March 2024

A Westminster Hall debate has been scheduled for 9.30am on 6 March on the introduction of energy rebates for Highlands and Islands. The debate will be opened by Drew Hendry MP.

Background
This debate relates to the Highland Energy Rebate campaign, which is advocating for a scheme that would offer financial rebates to Highland and Islands residents, offsetting the higher per-unit costs of electricity they currently face.

The campaign is led by Drew Hendry, Member of Parliament for Inverness, Nairn, Badenoch and Strathspey, and Brendan O'Hara, Member of Parliament for Argyll and Bute.

The Highland Energy Rebate campaign
The Highland Energy Rebate: In brief report (PDF) sets out the aims and objectives of the Highland Energy Rebate campaign.

The campaign is advocating for a scheme that would provide financial support for residents of the Highlands & Islands to help with their energy costs. It notes that the Highlands & Islands region contributes significantly to the UK's production of renewable energy but that its residents face relatively high energy costs due to transmission and distribution charges.

The proposed scheme would provide rebates to eligible consumers through either a percentage reduction in energy bills or through annual payments. Eligibility would be for areas where renewable power generation is significantly above local usage. The scheme could be administered by local councils or energy suppliers.

Potential benefits of the rebate scheme
Advocates of the Highland Energy Rebate scheme suggest a number of benefits:

At the national level, they say the proposal aligns with net zero targets, would reduce fuel poverty, address regional disparities and promote economic stability.

For the residents of the Highlands & Islands, they say it would improve quality of life, empower the community and boost the local economy.

For energy companies, the proposal could promote a positive public image, assist with local approval for infrastructure projects, and align with corporate sustainability and social responsibility goals.

Read the papers with links to more information

To view the debate on 6 March go to Parliament TV