Newsdesk
EAST KENT COUNCILS FAILING ON ENERGY EFFICIENCY
18th September 2003The Green Party started a campaign which led to the Home Energy Conservation Act, 1995. The Government has just reviewed the performance of local councils throughout the county (1). Unfortunately, all of the councils in East Kent show only slight improvements over this period. Steve Dawe comments:
"Our local councils are not realising the jobs potential of energy efficiency. The exceedingly modest improvements they have made are not going to make a significant impact on greenhouse gas emissions. They must do more to protect us from climate change. The percentage improvement figures for each local authority in East Kent are: ASHFORD: 7.6%; CANTERBURY: 16.1%; DOVER-DEAL: 9.6%; SHEPWAY: 10.1%; SWALE: 11.4%; THANET: 11.2%.
"The Green Party believes a minimum improvement of 20% was easily attainable and that councils really should have been able to reach 25%, through their own efforts and as a result of campaigning for public and business support. However, Government grants for energy efficiency are also in question, since funds are limited. Insulating properties and introducing solar water heating create jobs, remove dampness and help to preserve properties for future use. Housing in the private rented sector in poor repair is often in need of such improvements. But how are small landlords supposed to make such improvements without help? The Green Party believes local councils should set new targets for energy efficiency by 2010. We also believe the Government must increase grants for energy efficiency improvements (2). Ends c245 words
FURTHER INFORMATION: Steve Dawe on 01233 645167 or 07904 382203. Contact address: 10 Hillbrow Road, Ashford, Kent TN23 4QH
Notes: 1. Overall improvements in Energy Efficiency reported by energy conservation authorities in England for the period 1st April 1996 to 31st March 2002 released 2003. 2. Renewable Energy, Public Spending and the Euro a Euro in Context Briefing Steve Dawe, available from him at steve@no-euro.com
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