WWF said that the spike in emissions from the residential sector showed in particular the urgent need to step up the pace on improving residential energy efficiency, both to reduce emissions and to tackle fuel poverty. The NGO said that as it currently stands, the Government’s Green Deal looks likely to reduce the number of energy efficiency installations. at a time when the UK needs to see an increase.

Commenting on the latest statistics published by the Department for Energy and Climate Change this morning, Keith Allott, head of climate change at WWF-UK, said:

“If the government ever needed a wake up call on greenhouse gas emissions here it is. Whilst there were specific factors contributing to this increase, it’s clear that a step change is needed if the UK is to remain on track on tackling climate change.

“In particular it is alarming to see emissions from homes rising when people are struggling to pay their energy bills. The government must ensure that its policies on energy efficiency deliver at scale to reduce emissions and protect consumers.

“The UK's over-reliance on gas has pushed up emissions along with people’s energy bills. It’s a clear sign that the government needs to back investors in renewable energy and get us off the fossil fuel hook once and for all.”