News
Warmer Homes, Greener Homes – New Government Strategy
Added: 03/03/2010
A green transformation of Britain's homes will take place over the next decade – making them more comfortable, warmer and cheaper to run – under new plans set out by the Government this month.
With around one quarter of UK emissions coming from energy used in homes the Warmer Homes, Greener Homes Strategy is aimed at cutting emissions from the UK's homes by 29% by 2020.
The new strategy will help people make smarter use of energy in homes, making it easier to take action and reduce bills. Installing some technologies, such as solid wall insulation, could see energy bills cut by £380 a year.
The new strategy will also be good for jobs, with up to 65,000 jobs required in the green homes industry as a result, for example installing and manufacturing energy saving measures or providing home energy advice.
The strategy will be implemented in a three stage plan:
• To insulate 6 million homes by the end of 2011
• To have insulated all practical lofts and cavity walls by 2015
• To have offered up to 7 million eco upgrades by 2020; all homes to have smart meters
Ed Miliband, Energy and Climate Secretary, said: "This shows we can meet the national interest of tackling climate change and reducing our dependence on foreign energy at the same time as we help people save money.
"Making homes more energy efficient will help protect people from upward pressure on bills, tackle climate change, and make us less reliant on imported energy.”
You could start making savings on your energy bills now by insulating your home with a grant to help with the cost. To arrange a FREE, no-obligation survey call the Snug as a Bug helpline
on 0845 602 4696.
Ofgem 'must ensure energy prices do not cause increase in fuel poverty'
Added: 01/03/2010
Gas and electricity market regulator Ofgem must take steps to ensure high energy prices do not force vulnerable households into fuel poverty, according to National Energy Action (NEA), a charity which campaigns to raise awareness of fuel poverty.
Lesley Tudor-Snodin, spokeswoman for NEA), said many people have been worrying about their energy bills this winter and have been concerned about whether or not they can afford to turn on their heating.
Her comments follow the release of a report by Ofgem, which stated the average energy bill rose last month in comparison to November 2009, while wholesale energy prices continue to fall.
One way in which people worried about their energy bills can cut the cost of heating their homes is by installing insulation. According to government figures, cavity wall insulation could save the average household around £115 a year.
To find out how easy it is to have cavity wall insulation and loft insulation installed call the Snug as a Bug help line on 0845 602 4696. They can arrange a FREE, no-obligation survey and quote.
Government scheme to save organisations £1billion and more than 4 million tonnes CO2 each year by 20
Added: 01/03/2010
Next month (April) sees the start of the Government’s new scheme to save organisations money on fuel bills and to reduce carbon emissions.
The Carbon Reduction Commitment (CRC) Energy Efficiency Scheme will require large public and private sector organisations such as supermarkets, hotels, hospitals, local authorities and central government departments, to improve the energy efficiency of their buildings. They will be required to take part in the scheme from 1st April 2010.
The aim of the scheme is to help change behaviour and make organisations more energy efficient – to reduce carbon emissions and save money. The financial savings should be significantly greater than any costs arising from participation, and importantly will make carbon reduction a boardroom issue for many large organisations.
Energy and Climate Change Minister Joan Ruddock said:
“. . .the CRC which will see large public and private sector organisations cutting emissions as well as saving money on fuel bills. This is a real opportunity for business and industry to take a leadership role in tackling climate change and gain reputational advantage as a result.”
The Department of Energy and Climate Change and the Environment Agency, which will be running the scheme, have hosted more than 115 events to raise awareness about the scheme as well as running regional workshops and speaking events.
The CRC will help to ensure that organisations play their full role in contributing to the UK’s emissions reductions of at least 34% on 1990 levels by 2020 through improved energy efficiency.
The scheme is mandatory and will save participants around £1billion per year by 2020 through cost effective energy efficiency measures that are not yet being taken up.
By 2020 the scheme is expected to have saved at least 4.4 Million tonnes CO2 per year.
The scheme will target organisations whose annual half hourly metered (HHM) electricity use is at least 6,000 Megawatt hours (MWh) – typically those that spend £500,000 a year on electricity although all organisations which have a half hourly meter will be required to participate in some way.
New energy proposals generate interest
Added: 01/03/2010
Energy Minister Lord Hunt has welcomed the level of public engagement around the consultation on National Policy Statements on Energy.
The consultation, which closed at the end of February, gives the public the opportunity to influence and comment on the draft NPSs at a national and local level.
During the consultation period:
- More than 3,300 people attended 23 events in England and Wales to learn more about the draft energy NPSs and how they could respond to the consultation;
- Almost 20,000 people have visited the consultation website to find out more about what is being proposed; and
- More than 1,000 organisations and individuals have so far responded to the consultation online,
via email or in writing.
Lord Hunt of Kings Heath, Minister of State for Energy said:
“We are undertaking fundamental reform of the planning system which will result in a more efficient, transparent and accessible process. National Policy Statements are a vital part of these reforms, setting out the national need for new energy infrastructure.
“Listening to people’s views and helping them find out more is vital to getting this process right. I’m pleased that so many people and organisations have taken part and given their views on how future decisions on where we locate power plants will be made.”
The National Policy Statements on Energy will inform decisions made by the new Infrastructure Planning Commission, an independent body which makes decisions on applications for nationally significant infrastructure projects, such as large wind farms and power stations.
Following the end of the consultation on the NPS’s, proposals will continue to undergo parliamentary scrutiny. The Government intends to respond to issues raised both in the consultation, and through parliamentary scrutiny, later this year.
Householders with fixed energy price plans 'could see bills rise'
Added: 24/02/2010
Householders who are currently on a fixed or capped energy price deal could see their bills rise sharply at the end of next month, a price comparison site has warned.
According to uSwitch.com, there are currently 4.6 million people on this type of plan in the UK who could see their bills rise by around £250 a year if their fixed rate plans come to an end in late March.
The potential rise in costs is due to the increase in energy prices since 2006 when many of the plans were capped, the site warns.
It advises customers to check their energy plan and ensure they look at all the available competitive plans before they sign up for their next one.
Another way in which householders can significantly reduce their energy bills is by installing insulation.
According to the Energy Saving Trust, fitting cavity wall insulation can save the average household around £115 a year on heating bills. Loft insulation could save up to £150 per year.
To arrange a FREE, no-obligation survey by an specialist insulation surveyor, call the Snug as a Bug help line on 0845 602 4696.
Householders 'should use insulation to improve energy efficiency'
Added: 24/02/2010
Householders are being urged to make their homes more energy efficient with insulation, following news that the cold weather could continue into March.
According to the Energy Saving Trust, fitting cavity wall insulation can save the average household around £115 a year on heating bills. Loft insulation could save up to £150 per year.
Other energy efficient measures it recommends include turning down the thermostat by one degree and boiling only the amount of water that is necessary when using a kettle.
The government’s Carbon Emissions Reduction Target (CERT) scheme makes grants available to all home owners and private tenants to help with the cost of insulation.
To arrange a FREE, no-obligation survey by an specialist insulation surveyor, call the Snug as a Bug help line on 0845 602 4696.
'People must keep warm during winter to keep their heart healthy'
Added: 24/02/2010
People should wrap up warm and make sure their homes are sufficiently heated to help minimise the risk of dying from heart conditions during the cold months, according to advice from the British Heart Foundation.
The charity's cardiac nurse Cathy Ross stated that there is a greater risk of dying in winter than in any other season.
She explained that this is because cold temperatures can lead to an increase in heart rate and blood pressure, which in turn can trigger an angina attack.
"Research also suggests that blood becomes thicker in cold weather, which can lead to clots forming and causing a heart attack, stroke or sudden cardiac death," she added.
The nurse recommended avoiding spending long periods of time in cold temperatures.
Installing insulation is a very effective way to keep your home warm during Winter and can help to reduce your energy bills.
To arrange a FREE, no-obligation survey by an specialist insulation surveyor, call the Snug as a Bug help line on 0845 602 4696.
Eco-friendly tariff scheme 'will help consumers compare energy plans'
Added: 24/02/2010
A new environmentally friendly tariff scheme will help consumers to compare their energy plans on offer, according to an organisation that represents major electricity and gas suppliers in the domestic market in Great Britain.
Claire Gibson, senior press officer for the Energy Retail Association, added that consumers will be given more clarity about green energy tariffs following the introduction of the scheme.
She was commenting in response to news that Ofgem has launched a green energy certification scheme..
Under the initiative, a so called ‘green’ electricity tariff must demonstrate that it provides a reduction on a minimum threshold of carbon emissions before it can be awarded a Green Energy Certified label.
British Gas, E.On, EDF Energy, Good Energy, RWE Npower, Scottish and Southern Energy and Scottish Power have already had tariffs assessed under the scheme.
Householders who want to make sure their energy use is as environmentally friendly as possible may want to check their levels of insulation to ensure they meet government recommended standards.
Top arrange a FREE, no-obligation survey by a specialist insulation surveyor, call the Snug as a Bug help line on 0845 602 4696.
'Householders install insulation to save on heating bills and CO2'
Added: 24/02/2010
According to the editor of ‘Build It’ magazine, householders looking to make their homes more eco-friendly choose to install insulation because it is one of the cheapest and easiest ways to reduce costs and emissions.
Duncan Hayes was speaking out in support of the grants and financial incentives available to help people make their homes greener.
He praised the boiler scrappage scheme, but stated it did not go far enough and that other green grants and incentives also tend to be under-funded.
"We get several people that [want] heat pumps or solar panels or PV [photovoltaics] and after a couple of quotes they just walk away and look to insulation for their savings in terms of energy and CO2," he stated.
According to the Energy Saving Trust, fitting cavity wall insulation can save the average household around £115 a year on heating bills. Loft insulation could save up to £150 per year.
All home owners and private tenants are entitled to grant towards the cost of insulation.
To find out more and arrange a FREE, no-obligation insulation survey, call the Snug as a Bug help line on 0845 602 4696.
Celebrities offer eco-friendly advice
Added: 24/02/2010
A group of celebrities have offered their ideas on improving energy efficiency and cutting carbon emissions.
Celebrities such as Jane Horrocks, Emma Thompson, Vivienne Westwood and Keeley Hawes are to be featured in an exhibition of portrait photographs at City Hall, each with a caption giving their thoughts on climate change.
The public will also be able to submit their views on climate change through a new website.
The best of these ideas will be incorporated into the London climate action plan.
Mayor of London Boris Johnson has pledged that London will cut its carbon footprint by 60 per cent by 2025.
He commented: "To improve our quality of life, care for our planet and save money from our pockets, we need to adapt our homes and workplaces, moving London to an energy efficient future."
One way in which people across the UK can make their homes more energy efficient and save money is by installing insulation.
To arrange a FREE, no-obligation survey by an specialist insulation surveyor, call the Snug as a Bug help line on 0845 602 4696.
UN climate chief Yvo de Boer quits
Added: 24/02/2010
The man who presided over the Copenhagen climate change talks has announced he will step down from the role.
Yvo de Boer, who has led the United Nations Framework Convention on climate change since 2006, said he will resign as executive secretary in July.
Mr de Boer oversaw the COP15 talk in December last year, a process which resulted in the Copenhagen Accord.
Announcing his decision in Bonn, Germany, Mr de Boer said:
"Copenhagen did not provide us with a clear agreement in legal terms.
"But the political commitment and sense of direction toward a low-emissions world are overwhelming.
"It was a difficult decision to make, but I believe the time is ripe for me to take on a new challenge, working on climate and sustainability with the private sector and academia."
UK energy and climate change secretary, Ed Miliband, called for a successor to be found quickly.
He said: "Yvo de Boer's patient work helped produce the Copenhagen Accord which contains commitments covering 80 percent of global emissions, something never previously achieved.
"We must quickly find a suitable successor, who can oversee the negotiations and reform the UNFCCC to ensure it is up to the massive task of dealing with what are some of the most complex negotiations ever."
Mr de Boer will not be out of work long as he also announced he will be joining the consultancy group KPMG as global adviser on climate and sustainability, as well as working with a number of universities.
Consumers could do more to save energy, says comparison website
Added: 22/02/2010
Consumers may be feeling the strain of high winter energy bills, but many are still in the habit of wasting energy on heating their homes.
This is according to a new report from price comparison website Confused.com.
The site found that 76 per cent of Britons are more aware of their energy usage following the prolonged cold snap that affected the nation.
However, a huge number are still using energy unnecessarily.
Surprisingly, 37 per cent of homeowners will turn the heating up before they think to put on another layer of clothing.
Gareth Kloet, Confused.com's head of energy, commented: "It's important to realise that Winter doesn't stop when you go through your front door. Jumpers and extra layers that keep you warm outdoors do work just as well inside and do not load your energy bills."
A further 22 per cent of people would leave their central heating on during the day just to keep their pets warm, while one in ten would leave the heating running in a totally empty house in order to return home to a warm house in the evening.
One of the most effective ways to reduce your heating bill without having to feel the cold is to install adequate home insulation. Grants are available towards the cost of Loft Insulation and Cavity Wall Insulation. To find out more call the ‘Snug as a Bug’ helpline in 0845 602 4696 and quote webnews.
They can arrange for a FREE, no-obligation survey of your home by a specialist insulation surveyor.
Carbon Disclosure Project aims to 'improve corporate sustainability management'
Added: 22/02/2010
The Carbon Disclosure Project (CDP) is commencing its worldwide sourcing initiative to collect as much information as possible regarding the greenhouse gas emissions and climate change targets of international companies.
Focusing on investment portfolios, the CDP records allow investors and companies to make informed decisions on how their company chooses to tackle climate change.
This latest review, the eighth annual survey of its kind, will be the first to use new online technology in order to better assess how to improve carbon management within companies.
Henk de Bruin, head of corporate sustainability at Philips, commented: "Measurement, reporting and verification of emissions is a vital step for organisations looking to increase awareness of the impact of climate change and improve the management of greenhouse gas emissions.
"The new reporting tools enable greater analysis of the CDP data to benchmark against peers and other sectors and geographies."
New label launched for certified green electricity
Added: 16/02/2010
A new certification scheme has been launched by Ofgem to identify green electricity tariffs which have been certified as having genuine environmental benefits.
The “green energy certified” label will help customers recognise tariffs that have been certified under the scheme. It will reassure them that if they choose a certified green energy deal, they will be supporting suppliers who are going the extra mile to reduce carbon emissions.
The certification scheme will implement energy regulator Ofgem’s Green Supply Guidelines, published last year. The guidelines set out what green tariffs should comprise, how they should be marketed and the evidence required to back-up claims.
To be eligible for certification, suppliers will have to demonstrate to an independent panel of experts that their tariffs result in a reduction of a minimum threshold of carbon dioxide emissions.
Crucially suppliers must show that the activity associated with the green tariff is in addition to what they already have to do to meet existing Government targets for sourcing more renewable electricity and reducing household carbon emissions.
The independent panel, chaired by Solitaire Townsend, a leading sustainable development expert, has now assessed tariffs from all participants in the scheme. Details of the newly certified tariffs are available at www.greenenergyscheme.org
Britain's stately homes to be given energy-saving makeovers
Added: 16/02/2010
Some of Britain's best-loved stately homes are to be given an eco-friendly makeover as the National Trust works to reduce carbon emissions produced by burning fossil fuels.
Forming part of the heritage group's newly-announced ten year environmental plan, around 50 historic properties have already been earmarked for energy-efficiency improvements, in addition to the renewable energy measures already introduced at 140 sites.
Energy saving measures such as insulation will help to reduce energy usage while solar panels and small wind turbines will help to provide the stately homes with green energy, and in some cases wood boilers will also be fitted to keep visitors warm while cutting back on carbon emissions.
The National Trust hopes that such energy-saving measures will help it achieve its target of cutting carbon emissions from energy used for heat by 45 per cent within the next ten years, compared to the government's target of a 34 per cent reduction over the same period.
According to the Trust's director general, Fiona Reynolds, such a move makes good business, as well as ethical, sense.
"By cutting our energy consumption and growing our own energy, locally, from renewable sources we will have more money to spend on the places we look after, and a more sustainable and resilient operation," she said.
EU formalises its support for Copenhagen Accord
Added: 09/02/2010
The European Union has formalised its support for the Copenhagen Accord on climate change and presented its commitments for emission reduction targets.
In a joint letter with the Spanish Presidency of the Council, the European Commission has formally notified the EU's willingness to be associated with the Accord and submitted for information the EU's established greenhouse gas emissions reduction targets for 2020.
These consist of a unilateral commitment to reduce the EU's overall emissions by 20% of 1990 levels and a conditional offer to increase this cut to 30% provided that other major emitters agree to take on their fair share of a global reduction effort.
Commission President José Manuel Barroso said: " The EU is determined to move ahead rapidly with implementing the Copenhagen Accord in order to make progress towards the agreement that we need to hold global warming below 2°C The Accord provides a basis on which to build this future agreement and I therefore urge all countries to associate themselves with it and notify ambitious emission targets or actions for inclusion as we are doing."
European Environment Commissioner Stavros Dimas said: "Swift action is needed to make operational key elements of the Accord such as fast-start financing for developing countries, the fight against deforestation and the development and transfer of low carbon technologies."
Climate change secretary ups emissions pledge
Added: 09/02/2010
Secretary of state for energy and climate change Ed Miliband said in January that the UK would move its offer to reduce emissions from 20 to 30 per cent.
The UK may need to make bold cuts in transport emissions if the pledge to cut carbon emissions by 30 per cent is upheld.
Mr Miliband said: "Today's decision to keep the offer to move to 30 per cent demonstrates the EU's commitment to maintaining a strong signal to the world on the urgency to act on climate change."
He added that, as had always been the case, the pledge is conditional on other countries showing "similar ambition".
World leaders met at the Copenhagen Climate Conference in December to discuss how best to tackle climate change.
Household carbon emissions account for sizeable proportion of UK greenhouse gas emissions, making it a strong area to focus on to meet the planned cuts.
Home insulation can significantly reduce household carbon emissions by reducing energy consumption – which also helps keep energy bills down. To find out more and claim your grant towards the cost, call the Snug as a Bug helpline on 0845 602 4696 and quote webnews
UK needs more energy efficient homes first
Added: 09/02/2010
A new report has suggested that ensuring the energy efficiency of homes should take precedence over the development of new sources of energy.
Ensuring that British homes are using energy in the most efficient way possible is initially more important than developing green energy, a report from the Royal Academy of Engineering has revealed.
The report said: "Before renewable energy generation is even considered it is vital to ensure that buildings are as energy efficient as possible, otherwise the potential benefits are simply wasted in offsetting un-necessary consumption."
It highlighted the importance of developing creative solutions involving basic techniques such as daylight, natural ventilation and thermal mass, when considering how to make homes more energy efficient.
Carbon emissions from buildings currently stands at 45 per cent of the UK's total emissions.
The Royal Academy report highlighted that without a dramatic reduction in carbon emissions from buildings, the nation will be unable to reach its target of reducing carbon emissions by 80 per cent by 2050.
Home insulation is an easy and cost effective way to reduce your household carbon emissions and save on your energy bills. To find out about the grants available call the Snug as a Bug helpline on 0845 602 4696.
Energy efficiency 'gaining importance for homeowners’
Added: 09/02/2010
Energy efficiency is becoming increasingly important to homeowners, with growing numbers installing renewable energy solutions in their homes.
This is the view of a spokesperson for British Eco Energy, an organisation that offers advice about renewable and energy saving technology.
The spokesperson added that energy efficient products are becoming more and more popular, especially as the government is focusing on sustainability.
However it does not always require expensive solutions. Many householders are finding that cost-effective solutions such as home insulation can greatly improve energy efficiency.
According to the Energy Saving Trust, cavity wall insulation is one of the most cost-effective energy efficiency measures available to householders and claims it can save most households around £115 each year on heating bills.
The trust claims that, enough CO2 emissions to fill over 22 million double-decker buses would be saved every year if everyone in the UK who could benefit from cavity wall insulation had it installed.
Significant grants are currently available towards the cost of loft and cavity wall insulation. To find out if you qualify, call the Snug as a Bug helpline on 0845 692 4696 and quote WebNews.
Cold Winter snap encourages energy saving
Added: 09/02/2010
Consumers have been taking positive action to keep warm and conserve energy during the cold weather this Winter, a survey has found.
The research, carried out by Which? found that 84 per cent of people questioned would choose to put on extra clothes in order to stay warm without hiking up their heating bills.
While the main focus of the survey demonstrated the financial benefits of options like extra clothes and blocking up draughty windows, these simple measures also lead to a reduction in the amount of energy used to heat homes.
Martyn Hocking, editor of Which? commented: "There's little choice but to turn the heating up when you're faced with cold weather, so it's inevitable that people are going to worry about their bills.
“Consumers can ensure that they make the most of the energy used to heat their homes by taking simple actions such as installing an up-to-date efficient boiler and insulating their house properly.”
Grants are available towards the cost of home insulation making it extremely cost effective. To find out more call the Snug as a Bug help line on 0845 602 4696.
Home Insulation cuts fuel bills
Added: 09/02/2010
Ensuring effective home insulation is in place could save householders up to £380 a year on heating bills, according to a leading home improvement website.
Ratedpeople.com reports that there are still 5.5 million properties in the UK classed under the lowest two bands for energy performance.
A home's carbon footprint, however, can be slashed by as much as 907kg every year through good insulation, which would also lower fuel bills.
Ottokar Rosenberger, sales and marketing director of Ratedpeople.com, said: "Without effective insulation, properties can in some cases lose buyer appeal and value.
"Good insulation is essential if homeowners are going to cut the cost of utility bills and with government grants available, it's something that homeowners should consider as an attractive way of saving money easily."
Grants are now available from the government to support householders in improving the efficiency of their home.
To claim your insulation grant, call the Snug as a Bug helpline on 0845 602 4696 and quote WebNews
Insulate homes against plummeting temperatures, householders advised
Added: 09/02/2010
Following the recent freezing weather conditions and with the prospect of more to come, householders are being urged to take advantage of grants available for loft and cavity wall insulation.
Home owners and private tenants are entitled to claim a grant towards the cost of home insulation. This could bring the cost down to under £200 and in some cases may even be free.
The government’s Carbon Emissions Reduction Target (CERT) Scheme is designed to help householders to save money on energy and reduce their household carbon emissions.
According to the Energy Saving Trust, installing cavity wall insulation can save the average household £115 a year on the cost of their heating bills.
To find out how you can benefit from the scheme, call the Snug as a Bug helpline on 0845 602 4696.
Victorian housing 'may need insulation the most'
Added: 09/02/2010
Britain's Victorian housing stock may be the most in need of insulation, new figures suggest.
Research conducted by the Energy Saving Trust found that typical heating bills for Victorian properties can be hundreds of pounds higher than for more modern homes that are properly insulated.
Installing suitable insulation for the older homes may, therefore, help such property owners keep tighter control of their heating bills.
Another effect of the poorer insulation in these older properties relates to their carbon footprint. Such a home could emit around five tonnes of carbon dioxide over the course of a year, while a better-insulated new-build may emit around 3.4 tonnes in the same time.
Homeowners may also be able to immediately feel the benefit of installing insulation, helping them to keep warmer during the colder months of the year.
To arrange a FREE, no-obligation survey to find out if your home could benefit from loft insulation, call the Snug as a Bug help line on 0845 602 4696.
Poor insulation 'contributes to £15 million loss every day'
Added: 09/02/2010
Poor insulation and a lack of other energy efficiency measures mean UK energy consumers are losing as much as £15 million each day, it has been reported.
A recent report from the Confederation of Business and Industry (CBI) has suggested UK householders are throwing away money on their fuel bills because they do not have adequate levels of insulation and other forms of energy wastage such as leaking boilers.
CBI Director General Richard Lambert commented: "We need easy-to-access support and incentives to encourage improved insulation in homes and offices, a switch to more fuel-efficient cars and other energy savings steps."
The CBI report urged the government to take action to improve energy efficiency before businesses and householders lose more money.
Home owners and private tenants are entitled to a grant towards the cost of loft and cavity wall insulation. To claim your grant call the Snug as a Bug helpline on 0845 602 4696. They can arrange a FREE, no-obligation home insulation survey for you.
4 in 10 homes 'do not have adequate insulation'
Added: 09/02/2010
Almost 44 per cent of homes in some areas of the UK do not have the recommended minimum levels of insulation fitted, according to recent research.
It is currently recommended that homes are fitted with at least 27 cm of loft insulation, which could save householders around £150 a year on heating bills, according to the Energy Saving Trust.
Energy Saving Trust chief executive Philip Sellwood said: "As soon as the cold weather arrives, everyone is quick to put on a hat or put their hood up, but we are slow to do the same with our home."
Typically, a quarter of the heat in your home can be lost through an un-insulated loft. It makes sound financial sense ad well as being environmentally sound to get your loft insulated. Grants are available which can bring the price down to a little as £200.
To arrange a FREE, no-obligation survey to check if your home needs loft insulation call the Snug as a Bug helpline on 0845 602 4696. Grants are available towards the cost.
Carbon Trust launches energy advice guide
Added: 09/02/2010
New guidance on how small and medium-sized businesses can reduce energy bills has been published by the Carbon Trust.
The organisation has launched a video tutorial aimed at helping small firms cut down on their energy costs by as much as 20 per cent.
Advice on how companies can make changes to their operations, coupled with suggestions for effective heating, lighting and ventilation, is included in the new video.
In addition, the tutorial makes recommendations for energy efficient IT management and reducing energy out of office hours.
Hugh Jones, director of solutions at the Carbon Trust, said: "Many firms tried to cut costs to the bone at the end of last year.
"But many could save further, significant amounts of cash, without affecting their service or production levels, by tackling energy efficiency."
The new guidance has been published to help businesses cope with rising energy prices, which industry regulator Ofgem expects to increase by almost two-thirds over the next seven years.
Many small businesses could make quick and effective savings by ensuring that their building is properly insulated. Cavity wall and loft insulation are simple and cost effective ways to improve your energy efficiency. To find out more complete the contact form on this website.
Sustainable homes code to apply to all dwellings
Added: 09/02/2010
From Spring this year private dwellings will have to adhere to the same minimum sustainability level as social housing.
The Code for Sustainable Homes operates on all new-build housing in England, but currently there are no minimum requirements for private housing to adhere to.
However, Syntegra Consulting has reminded builders that later this year all new homes will have to reach at least level three of the six level code.
What sustainability level a home attains depends on several factors, including emissions rates, materials and the impact of the building on the local ecosystem.
The assessment replaced the EcoHomes schemes in 2007 and will eventually apply to all new-build residential properties in England.
By 2050 the UK government is aiming to have reduced all UK households emissions to almost zero.
Improving the initial structure of the buildings will play a significant role in meeting this target.
Many existing homes fall well below the minimum requirements and householders are encouraged to take advantage of grant schemes available to help them to improve the energy efficiency of there home.
Loft and cavity wall insulation are easy and cost-effective ways to improve the energy efficiency of your home and save on your energy bills. To find out more call the Snug as a Bug helpline on 0845 602 4696 and quote webnews.
Green building advice toolkit launched
Added: 09/02/2010
Companies in London are being offered a new toolkit from the Better Buildings Partnership to make their office sites greener.
The initiative has been launched as a means to measure C02 output generated from construction as well as a system through which energy consumption can be monitored.
It is estimated that more than one-third of London's total carbon emissions are created through office buildings.
The city's mayor, Boris Johnson, said that the new toolkit can also help enterprises reduce their total energy costs.
Martin Powell, project delivery director at the London Development Agency said: "Businesses need to understand how their buildings use energy before they can work out how to cut their carbon pollution.
"The Better Buildings Partnership's new toolkit will help them do that and will help move the commercial property sector toward an agreed set of standards and measurements."
Energy Performance Certificates 'a priority'
Added: 09/02/2010
A company specialising in providing green buildings and energy efficient working spaces, Morgan Lovell is to provide a seminar on Energy Performance Certificates.
Speaking at the Ecobuild event, Morgan Lovell's green office expert Ian Johnson will offer advice to companies on the minimum requirements for the certificates.
Mr Johnson said: "Energy Performance Certificates are now required for all commercial buildings whenever they were built and whether they are being rented or sold."
He explained that the certificates are designed to record how energy efficient a building is, "similar to the labels provided with domestic appliances such as refrigerators and washing machines".
Mr Johnson's talks could be of benefit to landlords who may need to update their existing buildings in order to qualify for an Energy Performance Certificate.
The seminar on Energy Performance Certificates takes place as part of the Ecobuild Refurbishing Britain series which will be held at Earls Court on Wednesday March 3rd.