Avoiding the same errors

This may not come as a major revelation, but the world is made up of various countries all addressing many of the same issues, whether its how to organise a public transport system, provide healthcare services or fund education. Yet, despite this simple fact, it seems that so many government policies over the years have been formulated as if we’re facing challenges unique to people in the UK, with little reference to the experiences of those who live beyond our borders. Surely there are things to be learned by the failures and successes of those who have looked to address similar problems, because when it comes to running a country there are no penalties for copying nor extra marks awarded for originality.

It is therefore hoped that a future UK government might be willing to take note of current events in Germany where the coalition administration is looking to accelerate the country’s transition to a carbon-neutral economy by imposing a ban on fossil fuel boilers. A government bill is set to come into force from 1st January next year which means that newly installed heating systems will have to be at least 65% powered by renewables and will effectively prevent new gas boilers from being installed from that date onwards.

The German popular press has dubbed the policy the ‘heat hammer’ and, perhaps not too surprisingly, it has sparked a sharp rise in demand for gas boilers as many Germans seek to beat the ban by having one fitted before the deadline. It is estimated that there has been a 100% increase in sales compared to the previous year which, it can only be assumed, will also result in a subsequent increase in carbon emissions. Polls suggest that the proposed legislation has also led to a big drop in support for the government, with 72% of voters against the initiative.

While few would suggest that we should go on using fossil fuels forever, the German experience would suggest that any measures to introduce a similar blanket ban in the UK will need further thought and careful planning if similar unintended consequences are to be avoided.