Retrofitting UK properties needs to become 'the rule'

Posted: 11 Jan 2010 10:28:09 GMT

Retrofitting properties in the UK in order to make them more energy efficient needs to become "the rule and not the exception", one environmental expert states.

Thomas Lingard, deputy director for the Green Alliance, says that retrofitting will only be successful in bringing down the nation's carbon footprint if the government is committed to implementing policies to make the measure desirable.

He adds that well-known companies such as HSBC, Thames Water and Marks and Spencer, who have leant their names to the cause, will help to make British homeowners more trusting of the move.

"People are very protective of their houses and will be reassured by brands that they know and trust," says Mr Lingard.

According to the UK Low Carbon Transition Plan, approximately 15 per cent of the cut in annual emissions in Britain will be achieved by making homes more energy efficient.

There are cash incentives for homeowners who get involved as in a poorly insulated home up to £1 of every £3 that is spent on heating is currently being wasted.

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