New Green Deal group for vulnerable homes formed

A new group met for the first time today to discuss how the poor and vulnerable in society can get benefits from the Green Deal and Energy Company Obligation (ECO). […]

A new group met for the first time today to discuss how the poor and vulnerable in society can get benefits from the Green Deal and Energy Company Obligation (ECO).

The ‘Green Deal Hard to Reach Households Panel’ will help DECC identify the main reasons that could be preventing vulnerable households from accessing the programmes. The panel will also provide DECC with the most effective and efficient measures to raise awareness and gain real benefits.

Energy and Climate Change Minister Greg Barker said: “I want to ensure everyone is able to reap the benefits that the Green Deal has to offer. This means getting the message out right across the country, including to the most vulnerable households.”

South Thanet MP Laura Sandys, who is chairing the panel said this could help reduce fuel poverty and energy bills: “The Green Deal has the potential to hugely reduce the number of people living in fuel poverty. Customers could be protected from rising energy bills by upgrading their homes so that they are cheaper to heat for good.”

The panel includes members from groups such as Age UK, Citizens Advice, local authorities and Which?

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