The cost of keeping warm and the price of inadequate policy

Abstract

We are in the middle of an energy price crisis, 1 with energy insecurity, fuel poverty, and their deleterious effects firmly fixed on the policy agenda, in media discourse, and in the public's awareness. Since October 2021, the annual cost of energy for the average household (without government intervention) has risen from roughly £1300 to more than £3500. These rises are expected to continue into 2023 and beyond. 2 Responding to the situation and pressure from charities, campaign groups, and researchers, the UK government has set out drastic fiscal policy. 3