THE Government’s Green Deal initiative to makes homes more energy efficient is in danger of failing at the first hurdle, warns a building industry chief.
Brian Berry, a director at the Federation of Master Builders said further incentives were needed to encourage householders to take it up.
Said Mr Berry: “With rising energy bills, there is an urgent need to improve the energy efficiency of our housing stock as it is far less energy-efficient than that of our European neighbours.
“However, householders will need to be convinced of the value of retro-fitting their home – particularly when the price is having a new charge attached to their electricity bill.
“The quickest and easiest way to create consumer demand would be to reduce VAT on Green Deal improvements or reduce Stamp Duty.”
Mr Berry said another concern was how local building companies will be able to access the Green Deal given that few, if any, will become recognised Green Deal Providers because of the onerous conditions attached to providing the finance packages.
He said: “This is a lost opportunity as it is the local builder who is best-placed to advise householders about energy efficient improvements when they are carrying out other home improvements or repairs.”
Mr Berry added: “The Government has rightly tacked the need to eliminate rogue traders by insisting on the need to have Green Deal accredited installers.
“Local builders already have many of the key skills in place to carry out energy efficiency improvements, but now they need an operational accreditation framework that enables them to demonstrate their skills and knowledge at the standard required.
“The Government’s delay in approving recognised competency schemes is not helpful and swift action is needed if the building industry is going to be ready for the launch in October.
“The Green Deal has the potential to create some 65,000 new construction jobs, which is why it is so important that we have the training courses ready at the earliest possible opportunity.”
