OFTEC has announced its 2025 conference agenda which will see industry leaders from across the liquid fuel heating sector unite in calling for Labour to set out a fair and pragmatic rural decarbonisation plan.
It comes ahead of the expected publication of the government’s Warm Homes Plan which will outline Labour’s policy programme to deliver on the UK’s net zero targets.
To date, the government has yet to provide clarity on how the rural off-gas grid heating sector will decarbonise in an increasingly uncertain economic environment, OFTEC stated.
The trade association is holding the conference in Tewkesbury on 4th June and will focus on the industry’s work to ensure rural homes and businesses have realistic and affordable decarbonisation options, and the role of renewable liquid fuels in achieving this.
OFTEC will host a Members’ dinner reception the evening before for guests and will open the conference the following morning with a range of speakers from across the industry.
Paul Rose, CEO of OFTEC, said: “It’s been a positive year for OFTEC. We’ve continued to proactively engage with the Labour government and newly elected MPs across the political spectrum throughout the UK.
“It’s clear the UK is facing an increasingly challenging economic environment which is impacting both policy makers and consumers. If we are to deliver on our net zero targets, an ambition we share with the government, we must be pragmatic and explore all the options available to deliver realistic and affordable choices for consumers to drive adoption.
“As the government prepares to set out more details of its decarbonisation policy, it’s vital that rural communities are not overlooked. We’ve long spoken about the unique challenges and the need for a more bespoke approach which encompasses both electrification but also renewable liquid fuels, a technology we have proven is an ideal solution.
“We have been making our case to the government, which seems to be increasingly recognising the challenges they face. However, we must not rest on our laurels. I look forward to welcoming guests from across the industry to our conference so we can continue to work together to advocate a fair, low carbon future for the rural sector.”