Householders green about new energy deal
With the launch of the Government’s flagship environmental energy policy this week Midlands expert Ron Fox said it was very disappointing that a new survey showed that fewer in one people had even heard of the Green Deal.
Billed as the “biggest home improvement programme since the Second World War,” the Coalition’s campaign, which started on Monday (January 28), is offering long-term loans up to 25 years to help residents “stay warm for less”.
But according to a YouGov poll commissioned by USwitch.com just 19% of those asked had heard of the Green Deal.
“However,” said Ron who runs Noreus in Stafford, “it is encouraging that the same poll showed 67% of householders wanted to make their homes more energy efficient with 86% seeing lower bills as the key benefit.”
Ann Robinson, Director of Consumer Policy at uSwitch.com, added: “The high cost of energy today means that the Green Deal has to deliver. Household energy is rapidly becoming unaffordable and reducing the amount we use will protect us from higher bills.”
The Government has set aside £125 million for the Green Deal, which was launched with a £2.9m marketing budget this Monday, on a first come, first served offer.
Under the scheme householders can take out a loan with the Green Deal Finance Company, a non-profit making organisation backed by the Government, to spend on energy-saving improvements to cut carbon emissions and keep people warm while the money will be repaid through electricity bills.
Ron said the incentive for owner occupiers, those renting privately or in social housing and private and social landlords, is that the more work they have done the more they get back from the package worth up to £1,000 per home.
He said firstly householders would need an Energy Performance Certificate, costing between £60 and £90, which recommends ways to reduce bills and save money. To find an assessor in your area speak to Ron or visit the YouGov Website.
The main areas customers can benefit are:
- Loft and wall insulation is where up to 25 per cent of the home’s heat is lost. Ron recommends Icynene as an ideal and environmentally friendly solution.
- Boiler upgrades – modern band A boilers are 20 per cent more efficient than the outdated band G boilers in many homes.
- Renewable technologies – Ground source heat pumps, solar panels for hot water and solar panels to generate electricity are all potentially available under the Green Deal.
Residents must apply to the Department of Energy and Climate Change (website www.decc.gov.uk or phone 0300 123 1234) for a voucher beforehand to get the cash back when work is completed.
Minister of State for Energy and Climate Change, Greg Barker, said: “We now have funds for a communications campaign that will build further understanding of the Green Deal, helping to create a real buzz. When you add our fantastic cashback into the mix, it’s clear that the Green Deal is building momentum and will be a brilliant offer for people.”
To find out more about the Green Deal, contact Ron on 01782 756995 or request a call back.
