Government to seek new ways to encourage home renewable energy

A spokesperson for the government department which has responsibility for encouraging homeowners to install microgeneration devices at home - such as solar panels and wind turbines - has said new plans will soon be in the offing to prompt a greater take up.

The representative of the Department for Business, Enterprise and Regulatory Reform (Berr) said the Low Carbon Buildings Programme had committed £7.5 million to 4,900 household projects since being launched two years ago, but admitted the take-up levels in the scheme were on course for a "shortfall" in 2008.

She added that in response to this "we recently met with industry representatives to discuss options for encouraging uptake and are considering options before deciding on next steps".

New incentives could include extra help for those involved in the self build of their own eco-friendly homes.

The scheme, which is run by the Energy Savings Trust on behalf of the Berr, offers grants of up to either half the cost of an installation or £2,500.


© Adfero Ltd