ECA urges government to ensure active measures are on Green Deal list
The Electrical Contractors’ Association (ECA) has welcomed the recent publication of energy efficiency measures provisionally included on the Green Deal. However, it says the government must ensure that ‘active’ energy saving technologies – those which reduce or allow better control of energy use – are part of the mix of eligible measures when the scheme launches late in 2012.
ECA Group CEO Steve Bratt said, ‘The ECA is pleased that DECC has included energy saving measures such as improved lighting and building controls on an indicative list of possible measures to be covered by the Green Deal. ECA members are well placed to install these types of improvements, and we will continue to engage with DECC to ensure the value of these measures is understood and appreciated.’He continued, ‘Suitably installed ‘active’ energy efficiency improvements, such as LED lighting, sensors and smart control systems, will help the Green Deal to be a success story. These measures can pay for themselves in less than half the time of higher capital ‘passive’ energy saving measures. The government now has the opportunity to offer relatively low capital Green Deals that allow homeowners to recoup their investment in up to five years.
‘To some extent, the government’s decision to avoid putting together a prescriptive list of eligible improvements is disappointing. However, we trust that homes and small businesses will be able to access funding for the energy efficient improvements that will have the most impact in a given property.’
Bratt underlined the importance of the government’s new Green Deal assessors, suggesting that ECA members are well placed to take up this role. ‘Skilled assessors will play a crucial role in making the Green Deal work. ECA members are the frontline troops in delivering more efficient and sustainable buildings, and they have the practical know how to be highly effective Green Deal assessors,’ he concluded.
