SNIPEF (Scottish and Northern Ireland Plumbing Employers' Federation) has welcomed the UK Government's new UK-wide clean energy jobs plan, calling it a positive move that finally acknowledges the essential role of plumbing and heating engineers in delivering clean energy systems.

SNIPEF stated the announcement rightly celebrates the professional tradespeople who will install, maintain, and decommission the low-carbon systems in UK homes and businesses.

However, SNIPEF cautioned that affordability must remain central to the green transition. This warning follows concerns raised by the Tony Blair Institute for Global Change that rushing the decarbonisation of the electricity system could strain supply chains and push up energy costs.

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Fiona Hodgson, Chief Executive of SNIPEF, supported the government's ambition but stressed that the focus must move beyond large infrastructure.

"Too often, the focus is on infrastructure and large projects, when in fact it is our skilled tradespeople who bring these technologies to life in people's homes and communities," she said.

Ms Hodgson revealed that SNIPEF has previously raised similar concerns about costs directly with the Secretary of State for Energy Security and Net Zero. She noted that electricity prices remain disproportionately high compared with gas, which "discourages households from switching to low-carbon heating."

The Chief Executive concluded: "The green transition is essential, but it must not add to cost-of-living pressures or undermine consumer confidence. Our members are the professionals who will make clean heating work on the ground. With the right support and a fair approach to costs, the UK can deliver both a green transition and a just one."

SNIPEF confirmed it is ready to work with the relevant government departments to create a clear pathway that addresses price imbalances, supports skills and training, and ensures the transition remains both affordable and achievable for households across the UK.