UNISON urges Ofgem to act on customer bills

Britain’s energy regulator Ofgem must act to lower customer bills and secure a just transition for energy workers, following record rises in energy company profits, UNISON said today.

The union is calling on the regulator to intervene and reduce high energy prices for consumers. It said that the scale of energy company profits is indicative of an imbalance in the market, and immediate action must be taken to rectify the situation.

UNISON national secretary for energy Donna Rowe-Merriman said: “In the cost of living crisis, there is an urgent need for Ofgem to intervene to ensure that consumers are not drowning in debt.”

UNISON is also calling for urgent collaboration from all energy companies in the UK to deliver major investment across the sector, to ensure a just transition for energy workers as the country moves to combat climate change.

Ms Rowe-Merriman noted: “As the energy sector continues to evolve, the union’s call for regulatory intervention and collaboration among energy companies marks a significant step towards a fairer and more sustainable future.

“By prioritising the fair pricing for consumers and a fair outcome for energy workers, the UK can pave the way for a just transition that benefits all.

“UNISON believes that a just transition plan is not only necessary for workers’ rights, but also for the long-term stability and success of the energy sector.”

The article UNISON urges Ofgem to act on customer bills first appeared on the UNISON National site.

UNISON urges Ofgem to act on customer bills

Britain’s energy regulator Ofgem must act to lower customer bills and secure a just transition for energy workers, following record rises in energy company profits, UNISON said today.

The union is calling on the regulator to intervene and reduce high energy prices for consumers. It said that the scale of energy company profits is indicative of an imbalance in the market, and immediate action must be taken to rectify the situation.

UNISON national secretary for energy Donna Rowe-Merriman said: “In the cost of living crisis, there is an urgent need for Ofgem to intervene to ensure that consumers are not drowning in debt.”

UNISON is also calling for urgent collaboration from all energy companies in the UK to deliver major investment across the sector, to ensure a just transition for energy workers as the country moves to combat climate change.

Ms Rowe-Merriman noted: “As the energy sector continues to evolve, the union’s call for regulatory intervention and collaboration among energy companies marks a significant step towards a fairer and more sustainable future.

“By prioritising the fair pricing for consumers and a fair outcome for energy workers, the UK can pave the way for a just transition that benefits all.

“UNISON believes that a just transition plan is not only necessary for workers’ rights, but also for the long-term stability and success of the energy sector.”

The article UNISON urges Ofgem to act on customer bills first appeared on the UNISON National site.

Blog: COP28 in Dubai

As a member of the ITUC delegation attending COP28 in Dubai, I have had the opportunity to witness both the achievements and concerns from a trade union perspective during the first week of the conference.

Just transition

One of the significant achievements during the first week of COP28 in Dubai, was the acknowledgment of the importance of a just transition to a low-carbon economy. Recognition of the rights and needs of workers and affected communities in the transition process is crucial. 

In daily negotiations I have advocated for the inclusion of just transition measures in the final agreement. This would ensure that workers are not left behind. We will know more on whether our attempts have been successful at the end of this year’s COP negotiations in a few days’ time.

Engagement with trade unions

COP28 has witnessed a notable level of engagement with trade unions in the decision-making process, though there is definitely room for improvement here in future. 

Trade unionist presence in various working groups and consultations has allowed us to contribute our expertise and ensure that labour issues are given due consideration, and the recognition of the role of trade unions in addressing climate change is a positive step towards a more inclusive and effective response.

Strengthened solidarity

The first week of COP28 saw trade unions from different countries and sectors coming together to share experiences and strategies. Solidarity among unions and their federations from across the globe has grown. This has led to fruitful collaborations and the exchange of best practices. This unity has amplified our voice and enhanced our ability to influence climate policies and actions.

Insufficient funding and ambition

In spite of the positives listed above, I am concerned about a lack of ambition for nationally determined contributions (NDCs), the measures that individual countries are prepared to take to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and achieve the goals of the Paris Agreement and limit global warming to 1.5 degrees Celsius. 

I’m also concerned that there are insufficient financial resources allocated to support workers and communities in the transition to a sustainable economy. Trade unions at the conference have called for increased funding and investment in reskilling, job creation, and social protection measures to ensure a fair and equitable transition for all workers.

Finally, there appears to be a lack of gendered perspectives and the recognition of the disproportionate impact of climate change on marginalised groups. There are also uncertainties around the position of countries that rely upon fossil fuels such as the COP28 host the UAE. 

As we move into the second week of COP28, trade unions have made significant strides in promoting just transition, securing increased engagement, and fostering collaboration. 

With a newly formed policy sub group focusing specifically on this area, UNISON remains fully committed to working towards a climate-resilient world that prioritises workers’ rights and the wellbeing of communities.

 

The article Blog: COP28 in Dubai first appeared on the UNISON National site.

Blog: Reflecting on a week at COP28 in Dubai

Tony Wright (pictured) is a member of the ITUC delegation attending COP28 in Dubai, and had the opportunity to witness both the achievements and concerns from a trade union perspective during the first week of the conference. Here he reflects on the first week at the conference.

Just transition

One of the significant achievements during the first week of COP28 in Dubai, was the acknowledgment of the importance of a just transition to a low-carbon economy. Recognition of the rights and needs of workers and affected communities in the transition process is crucial. 

In daily negotiations I have advocated for the inclusion of just transition measures in the final agreement. This would ensure that workers are not left behind. We will know more on whether our attempts have been successful at the end of this year’s COP negotiations in a few days’ time.

Engagement with trade unions

COP28 has witnessed a notable level of engagement with trade unions in the decision-making process, though there is definitely room for improvement here in future. 

Trade unionist presence in various working groups and consultations has allowed us to contribute our expertise and ensure that labour issues are given due consideration, and the recognition of the role of trade unions in addressing climate change is a positive step towards a more inclusive and effective response.

Strengthened solidarity

The first week of COP28 saw trade unions from different countries and sectors coming together to share experiences and strategies. Solidarity among unions and their federations from across the globe has grown. This has led to fruitful collaborations and the exchange of best practices. This unity has amplified our voice and enhanced our ability to influence climate policies and actions.

Insufficient funding and ambition

In spite of the positives listed above, I am concerned about a lack of ambition for nationally determined contributions, the measures that individual countries are prepared to take to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and achieve the goals of the Paris Agreement and limit global warming to 1.5 degrees celsius. 

I’m also concerned that there are insufficient financial resources allocated to support workers and communities in the transition to a sustainable economy. Trade unions at the conference have called for increased funding and investment in reskilling, job creation, and social protection measures to ensure a fair and equitable transition for all workers.

Finally, there appears to be a lack of gendered perspectives and the recognition of the disproportionate impact of climate change on marginalised groups. There are also uncertainties around the position of countries that rely upon fossil fuels such as the COP28 host the UAE. 

As we move into the second week of COP28, trade unions have made significant strides in promoting just transition, securing increased engagement, and fostering collaboration. 

With a newly formed policy sub group focusing specifically on this area, UNISON remains fully committed to working towards a climate-resilient world that prioritises workers’ rights and the wellbeing of communities.

 

The article Blog: Reflecting on a week at COP28 in Dubai first appeared on the UNISON National site.

UNISON takes the call for a just transition to COP28

UNISON is taking the call for a just transition to this year’s UN climate change conference – better known as COP28, which opens on Thursday in Dubai, and continues until 12 December.

Tony Wright, NEC member and chair of the policy development and campaign committee, will be attending the first week of the conference. He will be acting as one of the two designated UK observers, as part of the International Trades Union Congress (ITUC) delegation.

As an official observer, his duties will include daily morning meetings to liaise with fellow trade union delegates from around the world and lobby the UK representatives – including MPs from all parties and government civil servants.

The role aims “to ensure the aims put forward by the ITUC and supported by UNISON are considered and adopted,” explains Mr Wright.

“I will also be providing regular updates to the TUC and UNISON back home so they can advise of any further action needed and lobby for change via domestic routes.”

Portrait of Tony Wright, NEC member and chair of the UNISON policy development and campaign committee

Tony Wright

For several years, UNISON has been building a focus on green issues and the climate. This has been done via the development of the green reps role, regular communications with the wider membership and focused activities across all four nations.

“In UNISON, we have a job to do – building on the work we have already done around greening public services. And, to do the best job we can, we need to be fully aware of the discussions which will shape future global policy,” says Mr Wright.

“I’m fully aware of what an honour it is to be attending COP28 on behalf of my union, UNISON, as part of the ITUC delegation. The ITUC represents over 200 million workers in 167 countries, so to be part of its delegation is a fantastic opportunity to learn and, hopefully, influence.

“The issues we will be discussing at COP28 are critical and if the people with the power to act don’t start doing something soon, it really will be too late to avoid major catastrophes. We could face even worse extreme weather than we have already experienced as well as mass migration,” he adds.

“As the largest union in the UK, it is vital that UNISON has a voice and a set of ears at the COP28 table.

“UNISON fights to protect our members terms and conditions but, while it doesn’t bear thinking about, there is no getting away from the fact that there are no jobs on a dead planet. That means we also need to fight for the future of everyone.”

At COP28, the trade unions will be demanding a labour-inclusive, just transition work programme. The priorities include guarantees on human and labour rights, inclusive participation, and providing the urgently needed climate finance to invest in a just transition.

Wider themes for the first week of COP28 include: health, recovery and peace, finance, trade, gender equality, urbanisation, transport, youth, children, education, nature, land use, oceans, food agriculture, and water.

Find out more about Green UNISON

The article UNISON takes the call for a just transition to COP28 first appeared on the UNISON National site.

UNISON takes the call for a just transition to COP28

UNISON is taking the call for a just transition to this year’s UN climate change conference – better known as COP28, which opens on Thursday in Dubai, and continues until 12 December.

Tony Wright, NEC member and chair of the policy development and campaign committee, will be attending the first week of the conference. He will be acting as one of the two designated UK observers, as part of the International Trades Union Congress (ITUC) delegation.

As an official observer, his duties will include daily morning meetings to liaise with fellow trade union delegates from around the world and lobby the UK representatives – including MPs from all parties and government civil servants.

The role aims “to ensure the aims put forward by the ITUC and supported by UNISON are considered and adopted,” explains Mr Wright.

“I will also be providing regular updates to the TUC and UNISON back home so they can advise of any further action needed and lobby for change via domestic routes.”

Portrait of Tony Wright, NEC member and chair of the UNISON policy development and campaign committee

Tony Wright

For several years, UNISON has been building a focus on green issues and the climate. This has been done via the development of the green reps role, regular communications with the wider membership and focused activities across all four nations.

“In UNISON, we have a job to do – building on the work we have already done around greening public services. And, to do the best job we can, we need to be fully aware of the discussions which will shape future global policy,” says Mr Wright.

“I’m fully aware of what an honour it is to be attending COP28 on behalf of my union, UNISON, as part of the ITUC delegation. The ITUC represents over 200 million workers in 167 countries, so to be part of its delegation is a fantastic opportunity to learn and, hopefully, influence.

“The issues we will be discussing at COP28 are critical and if the people with the power to act don’t start doing something soon, it really will be too late to avoid major catastrophes. We could face even worse extreme weather than we have already experienced as well as mass migration,” he adds.

“As the largest union in the UK, it is vital that UNISON has a voice and a set of ears at the COP28 table.

“UNISON fights to protect our members terms and conditions but, while it doesn’t bear thinking about, there is no getting away from the fact that there are no jobs on a dead planet. That means we also need to fight for the future of everyone.”

At COP28, the trade unions will be demanding a labour-inclusive, just transition work programme. The priorities include guarantees on human and labour rights, inclusive participation, and providing the urgently needed climate finance to invest in a just transition.

Wider themes for the first week of COP28 include: health, recovery and peace, finance, trade, gender equality, urbanisation, transport, youth, children, education, nature, land use, oceans, food agriculture, and water.

Find out more about Green UNISON

The article UNISON takes the call for a just transition to COP28 first appeared on the UNISON National site.

No winners from government rowing back on net-zero policies

Responding to Rishi Sunak’s announcement today (Wednesday) that the government is delaying some important climate targets, UNISON general secretary Christina McAnea said:

“There’ll be no winners from this. Rowing back on net-zero goals could cost jobs, put up energy bills and damage the UK’s international reputation.

“The government should be helping everyone to meet existing climate targets and secure the country’s long-term future. Not abandoning them for short-term political gain to please some members of the Conservative Party.

“Reaching climate goals has to be a key priority, not a nice add-on when times are good. Investing in a green future creates jobs, grows the economy and brings longer-term savings.

“The prime minister should focus on more support for households least able to afford to make changes, without watering down commitments.

“There is, of course, a cost attached to this work, but the price of doing nothing is far greater.”

Notes to editors:
– UNISON is the UK’s largest union with more than 1.3 million members providing public services – in education, local government, the NHS, police service and energy. They are employed in the public, voluntary and private sectors.

Media contact:
Dan Ashley M: 07789 518992 E: d.ashley@unison.co.uk
Anthony Barnes M: 07834 864794 E: a.barnes@unison.co.uk

The article No winners from government rowing back on net-zero policies first appeared on the UNISON National site.

No winners from government rowing back on net-zero policies

Responding to Rishi Sunak’s announcement today (Wednesday) that the government is delaying some important climate targets, UNISON general secretary Christina McAnea said:

“There’ll be no winners from this. Rowing back on net-zero goals could cost jobs, put up energy bills and damage the UK’s international reputation.

“The government should be helping everyone to meet existing climate targets and secure the country’s long-term future. Not abandoning them for short-term political gain to please some members of the Conservative Party.

“Reaching climate goals has to be a key priority, not a nice add-on when times are good. Investing in a green future creates jobs, grows the economy and brings longer-term savings.

“The prime minister should focus on more support for households least able to afford to make changes, without watering down commitments.

“There is, of course, a cost attached to this work, but the price of doing nothing is far greater.”

Notes to editors:
– UNISON is the UK’s largest union with more than 1.3 million members providing public services – in education, local government, the NHS, police service and energy. They are employed in the public, voluntary and private sectors.

Media contact:
Dan Ashley M: 07789 518992 E: d.ashley@unison.co.uk
Anthony Barnes M: 07834 864794 E: a.barnes@unison.co.uk

The article No winners from government rowing back on net-zero policies first appeared on the UNISON National site.