May 24 2007
Green groups have reacted angrily after the Government announced today that Energy Performance Certificates (EPCs) - which were due to come in with Home Information Packs (HIPs) on 1 June - will be delayed. Ruth Kelly told the House of Commons this afternoon that EPCs would be delayed until 1 August and a key element will now be the subject of further consultation.
Friends of the Earth, WWF-UK and CPRE have been calling on Parliamentarians to back the introduction of HIPs because of their role in delivering Energy Performance Certificates. EPCs will play an important role in helping householders reduce carbon dioxide emissions, as well as saving on fuel bills. Homes are responsible for around a quarter of UK carbon dioxide emissions. UK carbon dioxide emissions have risen under Labour, despite promises of substantial cuts.
Friends of the Earth's Green Homes campaigner Dave Timms said:
"We are furious that the Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors' legal challenge has forced the Government to delay the introduction of EPCs. This is bad news for the fight against climate change. Our homes are responsible for over a quarter of UK carbon dioxide emissions. EPCs are a crucial measure that will help householders cut their emissions and energy bills. These measures have been planned for years; they must be urgently implemented, not watered down."
"The Conservatives have repeatedly claimed they back Energy Performance Certificates. But they have supported those seeking to delay and weaken them. They must now get fully behind this vital measure."
WWF's Head of Campaigns, Colin Butfield said:
"All the political parties have been keen to demonstrate their green credentials. They now need to prove this commitment by ensuring that the introduction of Energy Performance Certificates is not further delayed. Energy Performance Certificates are essential in helping the UK reduce its carbon emissions, and will enable homeowners to save money on their energy bills"
Shaun Spiers, CPRE Chief Executive, said: 'If we're to tackle climate change, it is vital that households have good, up to date information about how much energy they use at home. Energy Performance Certificates will make a critical contribution to that, so the Government must introduce them as soon as possible.'