Ceramics industry challenges exclusion from energy support schemes
Ceramics UK says this is increasing pressure on the industry.
Following the announcement of a new British Industrial Competitiveness Scheme, the national trade body warned that further support on energy costs – either through BICS or the British Industry Supercharger scheme – is urgently needed to protect the UK ceramic industry.
While both schemes offer support on electricity costs, they are reportedly currently unavailable to the majority of ceramic manufacturers.
Ceramics UK feels its members should qualify for the electricity-based schemes and that the sector’s gas-intensive nature also exposes it to broader energy volatility, particularly in light of ongoing global events.
Ceramics UK CEO Robert Flello notes, 'We have heard warm words from government on multiple occasions about the heritage, skill, innovation and critical position of ceramics within UK manufacturing only to be, once again, excluded from vital energy support.
'The ceramics sector is critical to the UK economy, contributing over £2bln each year and producing items and components that are used in homes and businesses across the country and the world. 'We don’t yet have the technology or necessary infrastructure to operate without gas, so it’s increasingly important that the government consider the broader impact of all energy costs, not just electricity.
'Ceramics UK are calling for an immediate reconsideration of the BICS criteria, where it is particularly baffling that certain ceramic goods are excluded from eligibility, while comparable products from other sectors are being included. Government’s review into the EII Supercharger Scheme also needs to be brought forward as soon as possible.'
