A new Energy Efficiency Scheme to help residents and businesses reduce their fuel bills and use of fossil fuels has been announced by Geoffrey Boot MHK, Minister for Environment, Food and Agriculture.
The series of measures will deliver on a pledge in the Programme for Government to address the threats posed by climate change – and adapt to them. They will also contribute to the Climate Change Mitigation Strategy agreed by Tynwald in 2016, and targets to reduce greenhouse gas emissions.
Unveiling the project in Tynwald today (12 December) Minister Boot said the first phase will see the launch of an energy advisory service, offering free, impartial advice to households on how to reduce their energy consumption and bills.
The service will include a telephone hotline and a website packed with information and case studies to outline the simple and cost-effective steps residents and businesses can take to save energy and reduce their carbon footprint.
Typical households can save over £250 per year through small changes in behaviour such as not leaving TVs and computers on standby mode, investing in a water-efficient shower head, fine-tuning boiler controls and switching off lights. A modest investment in insulation and draft-proofing can save money in the long term, with warmer homes adding to people’s comfort and health.
A roadshow will take the energy efficiency message around the Island in the New Year. Presenters will offer tips and know-how on making home improvements, while expert advisers will answer questions from the public on how to reduce energy bills.
Moves to update the Island’s building regulations have also been announced by Minister Boot, with the launch today of a public consultation featuring proposals for improving the energy efficiency of new buildings.
These include raising air-tightness standards and a requirement for electric charging points to be included as standard in new houses and commercial properties.
Minister Boot commented:
‘This is the ultimate win-win situation where vulnerable households will have warmer homes and save money, individuals will see valuable returns on small investments in their homes and the energy efficiency business sector will grow.
He added:
‘The Isle of Man will also be playing its part in the global movement to reduce emissions and mitigate the impact of climate change, one of the greatest challenges the world currently faces.’
