Brits paying attention to EPCs

Posted: 10 Mar 2008 11:17:54 GMT

New research shows that many Britons are prepared to act on the information provided in their energy performance certificates (EPCs).

New research shows that many Britons are prepared to act on the information provided in their energy performance certificates (EPCs).

The Department for Communities and Local Government (DCLG) has revealed that almost a third of homebuyers in the UK plan to carry out some of the energy-saving home improvements suggested in the EPC.

It is good news for those who support the introduction of Home information packs (Hips) but there are calls for more to be done.

Friends of the Earth wants the government to introduce tax breaks for people who make their homes more energy efficient.

"This survey shows that EPCs can play a powerful role in encouraging homeowners to improve the energy efficiency of their property. If they act on this information they will save money on energy bills and cut their carbon emissions," said Dave Timms, Friends of the Earth's green home campaigner.

"The government must introduce a range of tax breaks to make people more willing to act on this information. The chancellor promised to put sustainability at the heart of next week's Budget.

"With over a quarter of UK carbon emissions coming from our homes, Mr Darling must make it cheaper and easier for us all to go green," he added.

Hips have been mandatory for all home sales in England and Wales since December.

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