INDUSTRY VOICE
DESNZ announcements on oil & gas
The Department for Energy Security & Net Zero (DESNZ) has announced policy changes to help families and businesses with rising energy bills caused by the ongoing Middle East crisis.
Ministers are trying to break the link between international gas prices that push up electricity prices here in Great Britain. Exposure to fluctuations in the wholesale price of gas that affects electricity is a long-standing problem that in our supply chain we call the ‘spark gap’. This is a barrier that the BMF and other industry partners have long called for. The DESNZ aims to (a) offer long-term fixed contracts to low- carbon generators and (b) tax excess profits through its Electricity Generator Levy. In addition, BMF
members may be interested to know that:
Boiler Upgrade Scheme: the grant available for properties heated by oil and LPG will increase to £9,000 to encourage the switch to electric heating.
Permitted Development Rights: new legislation will be introduced to allow homes without driveways to run EV charging cables and associated equipment across pavements. Changes to make it easier to install heat pumps (esp. in non-residential buildings) will be consulted on. Views will be sought on amending some siting
IOBM Conference 2026 to spotlight future skills in merchanting
The Institute of Builders Merchants (IoBM) has confirmed details of its third annual conference, which will focus on how to advance your career in merchanting. Taking place on 15 October 2026 at the JCB World Headquarters in Uttoxeter, the event will be open to both IoBM members and non-members, offering a platform for industry professionals to explore how skills development can support long- term success.
This year’s conference will be hosted by BBC presenter Jason Mohammad, who is widely recognised for his work across flagship football programmes including Match of the Day, MOTD2 and Final Score. A familiar face at BMF events, Mohammad is sure to bring his characteristic mix of professionalism, insight and humour to the day.
Reflecting the IoBM’s focus 42
on professional development, the 2026 theme is “Thrive: How to advance your career in Merchanting”. As part of the registration process, delegates will be asked to identify the single most important skill for the sector’s future. These responses will help shape discussions during the conference, ensuring the agenda reflects real industry priorities. Attendance is free for IoBM members, although advance registration is required. Non- members can attend for £65+VAT. With individual membership starting from £20, the organisation is encouraging those interested in career development to consider joining to access its wider range of benefits.
Marianna Peet, BMF Learning & Development and Apprenticeship Manager highlighted the value of the event for those looking to progress within the industry.
She noted that the conference will provide a mix of insight and networking, including an optional post-event dinner.
John Newcomb, Chairman of the IoBM Management Committee, said: “The IoBM Conference is a unique opportunity for members and those considering membership to come together, share ideas and focus on the skills that will drive our industry forward. I look forward to welcoming delegates to what promises to be an inspiring and valuable event.” Registrations are now open via the BMF website, where further details and booking information can be found:
https://www.bmf.org.uk/ BMF2/Events/Event_display. aspx?EventKey=IOBM26
restrictions - and how to enable more installations in flats. Heat Pump Manufacturing: new funds of £90 million will help build and expand UK manufacturing capacity to create some 2,000 jobs.
Extra spending in the £30 million Heat Pump Ready scheme will help companies design and test new heat pumps that are cheaper, smaller and easier to fit. The official press release with the changes is here: https://
www.gov.uk/government/ news/decisive-action-to-break- influence-of-gas-on-electricity- prices
BMF DIARY DATES
Please check the BMF website at
www.bmf.org.uk for all the latest news and events updates in this ever-changing environment.
Rethinking mental health training:
As part of Mental Health Awareness Month, the BMF is launching a new training offer designed as flexible, practice sessions for busy teams in the building materials sector:’ ‘Build Your Own: Mental Health Skills Bundle’.
This new format recognises that mental health education is not one-size-fits-all. Clinicians and professionals are increasingly looking for flexible, relevant learning opportunities that fit around busy schedules while still delivering meaningful impact. The ‘Build Your Own’ bundle does exactly that.
Members can select three out of six live, one-hour training sessions, each focused on a different “hot topic” in mental health.
Rather than committing to a full- day course upfront, participants can explore the topics that resonate most with them. The bundle serves as both a standalone learning opportunity and a gateway to further development. By introducing participants to a range of contemporary themes, the sessions are intended to inspire continued learning, ultimately leading into the BMF’s more comprehensive full-day training programmes. Key dates and next steps • Booking deadline: 20th May • Sessions: Six live, one-hour “hot topic” sessions
• Format: Choose any three sessions as part of the bundle Find out more: https://
www.bmf.org.uk/BMF2/ Training/Training_display. aspx?EventKey=BYO0526
www.buildersmerchantsjournal.net May 2026
Photo: Chris McAndrew
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