Written questions by Kaur.

What discussions he has had with Ofgem on (a) improving its accountability to consumers and (b) reducing its costs.

The Government acknowledges that households have paid the price for the country’s broken energy market, with sky-high bills, suppliers collapsing, and poor customer service during a cost-of-living crisis. To address this, in December the Government launched its first comprehensive review of the energy regulator, Ofgem. The review will establish Ofgem as a strong consumer champion, driving up standards for household and business consumers both now, and as energy use evolves with smarter and greener technology. It will ensure that consumers have confidence that Ofgem is equipped to address unacceptable outcomes for consumers. A Call for Evidence to support the review closed on 28 February 2025 and the Department is considering the responses. Ofgem is committed to driving efficiencies through the use of technology and the introduction of improved processes and systems. These efforts are aimed at delivering better value for money while safeguarding the integrity and impact of the schemes it administers.

What steps his Department is taking to help support the development of the geothermal energy industry (a) nationally and (b) in Southampton Test constituency.

The Government is making support available to the industry through existing schemes such as Green Heat Network Fund, Contracts for Difference and Public Sector Decarbonisation Scheme. Potential projects in the Southampton Test constituency can apply if they meet the scheme eligibility criteria. The Government also continues to commission publicly available research to support the development of the industry. Research into the costs of geothermal energy is due to be published this summer and an open-access UK Geothermal Platform to support project feasibility work is in the final stages of development. Any future support is subject to spending review outcomes.

What assessment his department has made of the potential merits of (a) promoting and (b) mandating the installation of solar panels on new large industrial developments.

Accelerating the deployment of solar on commercial rooftops is at the heart of our clean energy mission. The Government promotes commercial solar by various means, including permitted development rights and fiscal incentives. Future Buildings Standards will be introduced later this year to ensure that all newly built commercial buildings are fit for a net zero future. We expect these standards to encourage the installation of solar panels.

What assessment his Department has made of the potential merits of installing solar panels in the unused space between train tracks.

Installing solar between train tracks could be a feasible solution, particularly in urban areas where the track is electrified, as there will likely already be an adequately sized grid connection. However, there are some obstacles that may inhibit the deployment of this technology, such as the challenge of grid connections in rural areas, obstruction of track maintenance, and the cost of additional transformers required to convert electricity from solar to useable high voltage DC or AC electricity for trains. Decisions on specific locations of solar deployment ultimately rest with developers.

Whether he has considered extending the funding of the Community Energy Fund.

The Government recognises the role community groups play in our efforts to tackle climate change. On 21 March, Government announced the Great British Energy Community Fund, which will continue the work of the Community Energy Fund to provide funding and support, from planning to strategic advice, to community energy stakeholders, helping to increase the roll-out of renewable energy projects.

Whether he is taking steps to (a) increase the number of and (b) expand existing community energy schemes.

The Government recognises the role community groups play in our efforts to tackle climate change. Great British Energy’s Local Power Plan will support Local and Combined Authorities and Community Energy Groups to develop up to 8GW of cleaner power by 2030. The Government also supports the community energy sector through the £10 million Community Energy Fund, which enables communities across England to access grant funding to develop local renewable energy projects for investment.

What steps he is taking to help increase access to electric car charging infrastructure for people living in (a) flats and (b) houses without driveways.

Electric Vehicle Chargepoint Grants are available for people living in homes without driveways, flat owners, renters, and landlords. These offer up to £350 towards the purchase and installation of a chargepoint. The Government will shortly publish guidance for local authorities on installing cross-pavement solutions for residents without off-street parking. In addition, the Local Electric Vehicle Infrastructure Fund supports local authorities in England to work with industry to transform the availability of EV charging for drivers without off-street parking, and will support the installation of tens of thousands of local chargers.