Householders could spend up to £6.5Bn a year on improving the energy efficiency of their homes, according to a report from the Federation of Master Builders (FMB).

The report, written by Gavin Killip, senior researcher at the University of Oxford's Environmental Change Institute, says a programme to improve the energy efficiency of 500,000 homes a year could be worth £3.5-£6.5bn, providing a much needed lifeline to ailing housebuilders.

'It's a huge business opportunity but infrastructure is missing,' Killip told Building magazine. 'The industry will have to get its skills and supply chains in order, but it needs a starting signal from the government.'

His recommendations include a review of energy performance certificates and changes to the building regulations. He also wants to see tax rebates for energy efficient homes and the VAT rate charged on refurbishment to be cut from 17.5% to 5%.

Brian Ferry, director of external affairs for FMB told Construction News that the first houses to be refurbished should be Government-owned to show it is committed to the policy.

Source

Construction Manager