CBI calling for greater clarity on Green Deal

The Green Deal - the Government's flagship energy efficiency scheme - needs to provide 'greater clarity' on how it will be marketed and financed, says the CBI.

The Confederation of British Industry (CBI) has warned that confusion over the Green Deal risks alienating the businesses the government needs to attract.

The eco scheme, which will enable people to obtain loans to make their homes greener - such as heating or insulation - needs to be marketed in a clearer manner, says the industry body.

However, a recent CBI survey revealed that 75% of the public doesn't take into account the energy efficiency of a home when renting or buying. The CBI is calling for the government to do more to get consumers to buy into the Green Deal to ensure that there is a market for the firms who will deliver the scheme.

CBI Deputy Director-General, Dr Neil Bentley, said, "The Green Deal is a good idea, but risks becoming a lame duck unless the Government tackles the big questions of financing and uptake.

"To ensure the scheme is a success, the Government needs to clarify how the Green Deal will be paid for in the early stages to give investors confidence," he added.

The CBI's report, entitled A Real Deal? Making the Green Deal Work, calls for the government to establish a strong Green Deal kitemark and accreditation system to build trust among potential consumers and providers.