South Belfast MP Dr. Alasdair McDonnell has called on the Executive to introduce the Boiler Scrappage Scheme operational in England to help Northern Ireland meet its ambitious CO2 emission reduction targets and to help reduce household energy bills.

Alasdair McDonnell has tabled a written Assembly Question to the Executive calling for the introduction of the Boiler Scrappage Scheme which became available in England in January of this year. Through the scheme the Government is providing 125,000 owned or privately rented households with a cash voucher of £400 towards the installation of a higher efficiency boiler or renewable technology to increase energy efficiency in the home.

SDLP Energy Spokesperson Dr. Alasdair McDonnell said: “If the Executive is serious about meeting Northern Ireland’s ambitious carbon emission reduction targets, then it has to look seriously at introducing a scheme such as the Boiler Scrappage Scheme operational in England.

“The carbon emission savings resulting from this scheme is expected to equate with taking 45,000 cars off the road. This is a sizable saving that cannot be ignored.

“Equally important, this scheme will significantly increase energy efficiency in many homes and households are estimated to save, on average, £235 per year on their energy bills. This will give a significant boost to household incomes trying to cover ever increasing fuel bills.

“This Scheme is exactly the kind of initiative that the Executive should be looking at. It is practical and well thought out and will make a positive difference to energy use and cost in the home”.

ENDS

08-03-10