LGA calls for tougher energy-saving targets
Published on : 06/05/2009
Start here..
Compare all energy suppliers
9 out 10 can save money!
The Local Government Association (LGA) is calling on the government to toughen targets for cutting carbon emissions in the home, claiming that many energy firms are dodging their responsibilities.
Under the Carbon Emissions Reduction Target (CERT), energy suppliers are given targets for cutting carbon emissions in the home, but the LGA claims these are too easy to meet and that most firms are simply sending out energy-efficient light bulbs.
It is urging the government to toughen up the targets so that gas and electricity firms have to insulate people's loft and walls, which could help 1.4 million households save £220 a year on their energy bills.
Councillor Paul Bettison, chairman of the LGA's Environment Board, said: "The failure of energy companies to really help householders cut their fuel bills is an outrage. Energy suppliers should be filling our lofts and walls with insulation, not filling our cupboards with light bulbs."
He added that consumers are already paying for the scheme through a supplement on their gas and electricity bills and therefore suppliers have a duty to do what is best for both customers and the environment.
According to the Energy Saving Trust, the average household can save around 1.5 tonnes of carbon dioxide each year by making their home more energy efficient.
