100 North homes to get a green makeover

Dec 8 2009 The Journal

Ministers want to find out whether the scheme is popular with householders and whether it is a realistic way of making more of the UK’s homes green.

Energy and Climate Change Secretary Ed Miliband launched the scheme as world leaders gathered in Copenhagen for the international climate change summit. He said: “The next two weeks in Copenhagen are crunch time for the planet. The UK has taken a lead in putting solutions on the table throughout the process so far and I’ll not rest until we have the most ambitious, effective and fair deal possible.

“Our credibility abroad is based on our ambition at home. We’re the first country to put carbon targets into law, and our target of an 80% reduction by 2050 is one of the most ambitious.

“Many British householders want to reduce their emissions, but are put off by the upfront cost of installing insulation, solar panels or ground source heat pumps. Pay As You Save will trial different ways of paying for this work so it’s affordable.

“One quarter of the UK’s total emissions come from homes, so householders have to be a part of the solution to climate change. Increasing the energy efficiency of homes not only helps reduce emissions, but will also help reduce fuel bills.”

Meanwhile the Conservatives say, if elected, they would give every house energy-efficiency work worth up to £6,500 with no upfront cost, as part of the Green Deal.

Wendy Morton, Tory candidate for Tynemouth, said: “This practical policy shows how if you vote blue, Tynemouth will go green and save money.”