Ceramics sector “ignored where it matters most” as energy support falls short

Excluding the UK’s ceramics industry from energy support schemes continues to ramp up pressure on the UK’s ceramics industry.

Following the announcement of a new British Industrial Competitiveness Scheme (BICS) 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.

Both schemes offer support on electricity costs but are currently unavailable to the majority of ceramic manufacturers. While our members should qualify for these electricity-based schemes, the sector’s gas-intensive nature also exposes it to broader energy volatility, particularly in light of ongoing global events.

Ceramics UK has issued repeated calls for energy cost support for its members, who produce materials used in aerospace, defence, construction, clean energy, electronics, homewares and giftware.

Ceramics UK CEO, Robert Flello, said: “We welcome the support of MPs including Gareth Snell, Leigh Ingham, David Williams and Adam Jogee, who have fought fiercely on behalf of the ceramics industry in the House of Commons following this disappointing announcement.

“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 £2 billion 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.

“At the moment, our industry is being ignored and, while the Secretary of State for Business and Trade, Peter Kyle, has committed to speak to the sector specifically, I cannot stress enough how urgent it is that we see swift intervention on energy bills for our members.

“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.”

ENDS