Watchdog says UK energy scheme ‘needs more work,

SCOTLAND’S consumer watchdog has said that the plan by the UK government to introduce incentives to encourage the public to improve the energy efficiency of their homes “needs more work” if consumers are to be convinced.

Responding to the government’s Green Deal and Energy Company Obligation consultation, leading consumer group Consumer Focus Scotland (CFS) said research indicated little enthusiasm among Scots.

It said that while consumers were keen to install expensive measures such as insulation for older, solid wall properties or alternative heating systems to save money on fuel bills, they were also cautious about the businesses they want to use and fear “a barrage of unwanted sales calls”. To make the scheme attractive, CFS said that consumers would look for a number of additions. These included: fixed low interest rates on Green Deal loans; an impartial advice service covering all aspects of the scheme, including different ways consumers can pay for instalments, and energy efficient assessments which are independent of sales, to avoid the risk of mis-selling.

Andrew Faulk, energy expert at Consumer Focus Scotland, said:“The Green Deal has the potential to transform the energy efficiency of homes and businesses across Scotland. We are urging the UK government to listen to what is important to consumers and get the scheme right for millions of people that could benefit.”