Going green may not be as simple as we’d like it to be but now thanks to companies such as British Gas, the race to go green by suppliers has suddenly picked up pace and make it a whole lot easier.
Unfortunately whilst more options are becoming available, cheap gas and cheap electricity still remain to be seen.
Back in the 2007 Budget, we heard how Gordon Brown is making changes that will help us meet the government’s target of reducing carbon dioxide emissions by 60% from 1990 levels by 2050.
This announcement included the introduction of green mortgages, helping families make energy efficiency improvements to their homes via their banks and building societies, for which Mr Brown is still in discussions.
The timing of these proposals falls well, with news of a mandatory energy efficiency assessment and Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) needing to be issued before you are able to sell your home after May 2007.
Many local authorities are starting to team up the likes of the new British Gas Green Energy company, providing easy access to companies specialising in supply and installation of energy efficiency and then reducing the price of your council tax by upto £500, depending on your area and what you’ve had installed.
So how does this work in your favour, come 1st June 2007?
If you take advantage of the new energy efficiency loans being offered and make your home more energy efficiency with solar panels, new efficient boilers, etc. you’re bound to receive an excellent rating on your EPC.
Not only would you receive an excellent rating but also your house suddenly becomes a lot more desirable to any potential buyer due to the lower stamp duty it will attract, providing your house does not exceed £500,000.
