Timetable of bills and consultations

EU Second Strategic Energy Review
In March 2007, the European Council committed to an integrated climate and energy policy with ambitious targets for 2020 and beyond. Europe has embarked on a transition to a high-efficiency, low-carbon energy system, initially in Europe but with a view to stimulating a global endeavour. The Commission has followed up on the political commitments of the European Council with concrete implementation proposals. The proposals will have a clear impact on greenhouse gas emissions. The Commission is launching a public consultation on the main topics to be covered by the Strategic Review.
Response deadline: 10 September 2008. Further information.

UK Renewable Energy Strategy Consultation
This consultation seeks views on how to drive up the use of renewable energy in the UK as part of the overall strategy for tackling climate change and in order to meet the UK's share of the EU target to source 20 per cent of the EU's energy from renewable sources by 2020.
Response deadline: 26 September 2008. Further information.

Northern Ireland's Green Rebates Consultation
A recommendation arising from the Executive's Review of the domestic rating system, was the implementation of a green rate rebate scheme to encourage investment in energy efficiency and zero carbon homes. This includes rate rebates for existing homes that make energy efficiency improvements such as cavity wall and loft insulation (approved insulation work) and an initial rates exemption, of up to five years, for the first residents of new homes that are zero carbon rated. The Minister for Finance and Personnel has published a consultation paper and is seeking views on the detail of the schemes.
Response deadline: 26 September 2008. Further information.

Reform of the renewables obligation: statutory consultation on the Renewables Obligation Order 2
This consultation takes forward proposals on banding as set out in the Energy White Paper 2007. This is intended to contribute to meeting the two long-term energy challenges. These are: Tackling climate change by reducing carbon dioxide emissions both within the UK and abroad; and ensuring secure, clear and affordable energy as we become increasingly dependent on imported fuel.
Response deadline: 30 September 2008. Further information.

Defra Energy Efficiency and Fuel Poverty Inquiry
Further to Defra's press notice of 28th February 2008 inviting interested parties to help devise the scope of its proposed inquiry into energy efficiency and fuel poverty, the Defra Committee has now decided to examine the UK Energy Efficiency Action Plan, with particular reference to Defra's efforts to improve households' energy efficiency and its statutory duty under the Warm Homes and Energy Conservation Act 2000 to ensure that, as far as reasonably practicable, people in England do not live in fuel poverty.
Response deadline: 2 October 2008. Further information.

Action on Climate Change: Proposals for Improving the Energy Performance of Existing Non-domestic Buildings - A Consultation by the Scottish Government
This consultation document sets out the Scottish Government's proposals for measures for possible inclusion in the Scottish Climate Change Bill to improve the energy performance of non-domestic buildings and reduce carbon dioxide emissions. The objective of the consultation is to ensure that all interested parties have the opportunity to contribute their opinions at an early stage. It asks important questions about the shape of the proposals and what issues should be taken into account.
Response deadline: 25 November 2008. Further information.