Derek Lickorish appointed new Chair of Fuel Poverty Advisory Group » Housing » 24dash.com

Environment Minister Phil Woolas and Energy Minister Malcolm Wicks announced today that Derek Lickorish will be the new Chair of the Fuel Poverty Advisory Group.

As Chair, Mr Lickorish will play a leading role in advising Government on the effectiveness of current policies in delivering reductions in fuel poverty, and identifying the barriers and solutions to achieving these reductions.

Phil Woolas said: "Tackling fuel poverty is a priority for this Government and I am pleased to welcome Derek as the new chair for the Fuel Poverty Advisory Group.

"I know he is as determined as I am to address this issue and do everything possible to help people struggling to pay their fuel bills.

"We are already supporting those most vulnerable to fuel poverty with Warm Front grants and Winter Fuel Payments, and have doubled the annual carbon savings through the Carbon Emissions Reduction Target - a programme which will see energy suppliers investing £2.8 billion over three years in household energy efficiency to cut carbon footprints and energy bills."

Malcolm Wicks said: "I am sure that Derek's experience in the energy industry will provide valuable insight into how vulnerable people can take advantage of the different offers in the market, further strengthen our work with the industry and ensure we help households across England to take up the help that is available to them."

Commenting on his appointment, Mr Lickorish said: "The challenge for the vulnerable consumer this winter to stay warm and well has never been greater.

"Record gas and electricity prices at present that are set to go even higher this winter demand immediate action to help those in society who are less able to help themselves.

"I welcome this opportunity to work with the dedicated team of professionals that freely give their time to FPAG and take on a challenge that is so urgent."

Derek Lickorish has had an extensive career over some 38 years in the energy business.

Prior to his recent decision to focus on smart metering and energy strategy he was the Chief Operating Officer for EDF Energy's Customers Branch for nearly five years and previously the Customer Service and External Affairs Director for SWEB since 1996.