New Strategy Announced By Government to Make Britain’s Homes Eco Friendly

Posted under Blog by Ruth

Last week it was announced by the government that the Greener Homes Strategy will seek to cut down on carbon emissions in British households by 29 percent by the year 2020. In order to do this, eco friendly changes will be made to around 7 million current properties.

The scheme aims to create around 65,000 industry jobs, and will lower energy bills for those households involved.

Ed Miliband said that the strategy will work to help take the pressure off upfront costs that are deterring many homeowners from making eco friendly upgrades. Instead, low cost loans will be provided. These loans will only need to be paid off once the energy savings are felt, meaning that it will be a lot easier for families to afford improvements.

Upgrades will be given to homes in the following stages:
1. By the end of 2011, 6 million homes will be insulated and have measures such as double glazing installed to make them warmer,
2. By the end of 2015, homes will be insulated in lofts and cavity walls,
3. And by the end of 2020, up to 7 million homes will have been upgraded and all homes will have smart energy meters.

This green home loans scheme will help to achieve long term carbon reductions targets, and will help both individuals in the face of rising energy prices, as well as protecting the environment.