A recent report from the University of Sheffield warns that the UK government’s efforts to meet its net-zero targets by 2050 may be hindered by socioeconomic inequalities in the adoption of low-carbon technologies (LCTs). The study finds that while there has been an increase in the adoption of LCTs, such as solar panels and electric vehicles, those from more disadvantaged backgrounds are still being left behind.
The report argues that current financial subsidies for adopting LCTs may not be effective in reducing inequalities, as affluent and educated households are more likely to be able to afford these technologies. The authors suggest that more targeted financial incentives, information incentives, and community-level interventions are needed to help those from lower socioeconomic backgrounds adopt LCTs.
The report also highlights the need to address policy gaps in the private, rented, and social housing sectors, as well as to provide educational guidance and increase awareness of LCTs. The authors suggest that community installations of LCTs could help alleviate the cost burden of adoption and level the playing field for those who do not have individual control over their property or transport.
The findings of the report are concerning, as they suggest that the current approach to promoting LCTs may not be effective in achieving the UK’s net-zero targets. The report’s authors recommend that policymakers focus on targeting specific socioeconomic groups at individual and community level, which is crucial to mitigating the observed inequalities in LCT adoption and promoting energy efficiency and resilience to high energy prices. The report’s findings have important policy implications for the low-carbon transition and the achievement of the UK’s ambitious and legally binding environmental targets.