13 June 2008
Eight million low-energy light bulbs are being handed out to housing association tenants as part of a government drive to reduce carbon emissions.
All housing association tenants will receive four light bulbs under a deal struck between the Housing Corporation and energy supplier EDF. As well as helping to tackle fuel poverty, the move is expected to save more than 1 million tonnes of CO2 over ten years.
The giveaway was announced on June 10 at the launch of a report advising social landlords on how to make their properties more energy-efficient. The government insists that all new homes must be carbon neutral by 2016. Fit for the future recommends that landlords use the Carbon Emissions Reduction Target scheme to pay for loft and cavity wall insulation. They should also aim to fit modern, high-efficiency boilers and set energy targets for their stock.
Housing minister Iain Wright said encouraging energy-saving features in homes was critical to tackling climate change. 'We also need people to take the practical measures which reduce their carbon emissions,' he added.
PFjun2008
