Press Release

INSULATION CHIEF ADDS SUPPORT TO THE FUEL POVERTY SUMMIT AND CALLS FOR ADDITIONAL INVESTMENT INTO HOME INSULATION MEASURES

23 April 2008

In light of today’s fuel poverty summit  between Government ministers, energy suppliers, Ofgem and consumer and voluntary agencies, the National Insulation Association (NIA) has urged those involved to include long-term measures within their recommendations and action plan.  

Neil Marshall, CEO of the NIA, said, "We fully support the summit  and any additional action taken  to combat fuel poverty. However, we will be keen to see recommendations arising from the meeting which address the problem in the long-term, not just a ‘quick fix’."

"It’s critical that all vulnerable households are fully insulated, as this is a one-off measure which will not only immediately improve comfort levels, but will reduce energy consumption year after year – at current figures, the provision of cavity wall and loft insulation can reduce the average fuel bill by around £200 per annum. There are many schemes and grants currently available, including free insulation measures for those aged 70 and over and on qualifying benefits.  There is a real need to increase awareness and targeting of these grants and inject additional funds into effective home insulation measures in order to fuel poverty-proof housing for those in need. It’s only by investment in creating energy efficient housing for the future, combined with targeted social assistance funding, that the issue of fuel poverty can ever be resolved."

To find a local NIA member and access the latest information on how home insulation measures can help eradicate fuel poverty, visit www.nationalinsulationassociation.org.uk