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Green home improvements plan backed by builders' group
27/11/09
Edited by Sophie GriffithsConservative proposals to provide green home improvements for 25 million properties have received the backing of the Federation of Master Builders (FMB).
Shadow housing minister Grant Shapps said under a Conservative government, every household would be entitled to a package of measures worth up to £6,500 to improve the energy efficiency of their home.
Utilities companies, charities and social landlords would carry out the work at no cost to the resident and would recoup the money over 25 years through the savings achieved in energy bills, he said.
Mr. Shapps claimed the scheme would create 70,000 new jobs for builders, electricians and other tradesmen.
FMB director of external affairs Brian Berry said initiatives like the Conservative proposal will be essential if the UK is to have any chance of meeting its legal obligation to cut CO2 emissions by 80 per cent by 2050.
"Providing grants to householders is a great way to help kick-start the market to make our homes more energy efficient as well as creating much needed jobs in the construction sector," he added.
However, he noted the cost of carrying out green home improvements on most properties would probably exceed the Conservatives' £6,500 figure.
