Following the result of the general election and the subsequent cabinet reshuffle BSRIA and NIBE have both issued comments.
BSRIA’s chief executive Julia Evans, said: 'During the election campaign housing emerged as a key topic for all the parties, at BSRIA we agree with the need to increase the housing supply. The previous coalition had implemented changes to the planning regulations enabling housing permissions to be brought forward, this combined with the Help to Buy scheme has seen much needed support for the housing market. The new Government also has a stated aim to provide 200,000 starter homes by 2020'.
'All of which will stimulate the market, however to deliver on this we need to invest in the practical skills needed and take this as an opportunity to positively promote our industry as a good long term career choice.'
She added: 'With Housing and Carbon Reduction at the forefront of Government policies the next Parliament has the potential to provide opportunities for the construction industry to continue to grow, therefore we need to invest now to attract and retain talent into the industry, and provide the on-going skills development required to construct the energy efficient buildings required now and in the future'
'With the UN summit for Climate Change taking place in November it is important that all parties re-affirm their commitment to the pledges and to working together addressing this crucial issue'
Meanwhile renewables manufacturer NIBE is urging the industry to work together with the new government to build a robust policy framework – one that will ensure a secure future for renewable heat in the UK.
Managing director Phil Hurley said: 'Now that we know the result of the election – and the make-up of the UK’s political landscape for the next five years – it’s time for the industry to pull together and look to the future. After a coalition government, the move to a single party majority is likely to streamline the policy development process – and from installers and specifiers right through to manufacturers and merchants, we will all have an important role to play in helping to shape this as we move forward.
'The next year in particular will be a crucial one for the RHI. In the short term, the priority should be putting a firm budget in place to extend the scheme past April 2016 (and to address other immediate issues, such as third-party financing). Whilst the outcome of this consultation is yet to be announced, as further developments are made, it’s vital that the renewable heating sector continues to make itself heard. The same is true for the long term, as the focus moves to establishing a clear regulatory plan to take the RHI through to 2020 and beyond,' he added.
'Here at NIBE, we also welcome the appointment of Amber Rudd as Energy & Climate Change Secretary. With her experience and understanding of the area, she is well placed to work together with industry to build a cohesive and effective renewable heat strategy – helping the UK meet its ambitious 2020 targets, whilst realising its potential as an international leader in the field,' Mr Hurley concluded.