Over three quarters of Brits would support the UK generating and distributing alternative, low-carbon gas through the existing grid to replace the imports of natural gas from countries such as Qatar and Russia, a survey by the Energy and Utilities Alliance (EUA) has found.
Research among 2,000 UK consumers found two thirds also said they would choose a low carbon boiler if replacing their heating system.
Amid increasing cost-of-living concerns, 82% of respondents also believed the government should prioritise affordability in the development of renewable technologies for heating homes in the UK.
However only 6.2% of those asked would be willing to pay £8,500 for a new heating system, the average additional expense of retrofitting a heat pump.
Mike Foster, CEO of the EUA, said: “It is clear that Brits back action on climate change however, with the cost-of-living crisis causing concern for pretty much everyone, the government have got to commit to a more affordable route. The vast majority of UK residents cannot afford the price tag for a heat pump, nor do they want to switch away from some kind of low carbon gas.
“The gas grid is gearing up for hydrogen, and boiler manufacturers have already made promises around price for consumers. Now it is up to the government to pull their finger out and prioritise UK people and their finances by progressing hydrogen as part of the UK’s energy mix.
“Mr Kwarteng and the Prime Minister have a decision to make with this Energy Crisis. Either they continue with an electrification of heat, imposing large bills on the public and pushing more people into fuel poverty. Or they can start prioritising the financial wellbeing of the British public and listen to their demands when they say they want an alternative to natural gas, which can be found in hydrogen.
“We have to make progress to Net Zero but this cannot be at the cost of the British people. We have all seen energy bills rise, hurting people in their pockets. The government must get this call right or risk making a huge political blunder which will see them out of office at the next election.”