GGF
LITTLE FOR GLAZING IN
GREEN GRANT SCHEME
THE GOVERNMENT HAS RELEASED MORE DETAILS OF THE GREEN HOMES GRANT
SCHEME ALMOST ONE MONTH AFTER IT WAS ANNOUNCED BY THE CHANCELLOR
The announcement adversely affected many home improvement
companies as consumers cancelled or postponed orders until
the launch of the scheme, which is set for September and will
be available in England only, with an estimated 600k homes
benefiting.
In the detail, the glazing element is relatively low priority with only
those upgrading from single glazing to double or triple glazing or
if installing secondary glazing, being able to claim funding under
the scheme.
The scheme also covers upgrading to energy efficient doors but
at present there is no detail as to what this means and which
products will be eligible. The amount of Government assistance
for glazing cannot be more than the value of the initial measures
which will need to be completed first and which are different
types of insulation and / or low carbon heating.
On receiving the details of the scheme, John Agnew, GGF
Managing Director commented, “The Green Homes Grant
Scheme announcement and delayed publication of operating
detail has caused significant damage to many companies in our
membership. Following the initial announcement last month,
many homeowners cancelled or simply didn’t order their
replacement glazing, in anticipation of the scheme’s September
launch. Now that the details have been confirmed it is clear there
is very little in this scheme for the glazing industry”.
The biggest glazing challenge for homes is to have modern
energy efficient windows - those that are C rated or above. There
are currently tens of millions of double glazed windows in the UK
that have been installed pre-2002 that need replacing because
they are inefficient. The Green Homes Grant Scheme does not
tackle this issue. Instead it leans towards, loft insulation, cavity
wall insulation and cheaper, easier options.
The other reality in the scheme’s details is that it is very limited
in terms of suppliers. Only installers who are accredited to
PAS2030 will be allowed to carry out work under the scheme. It
is estimated that of the 15,000 window and door installers in the
UK, less than 5% (under 500) are PAS2030 registered. FENSA
can accredit installers to PAS2030, and the GGF recommends
all glazing home improvement companies who wish to qualify
for work under the Green Homes Grant Scheme, register with
FENSA who will support GGF members with any additional
assessment requirements.
Later this month, homeowners across England will be able
to access advice and support on improving the energy
efficiency of their homes from the Simple Energy Advice (SEA)
service. SEA will suggest appropriate home improvements that
homeowners may be able to apply for support in funding.
Once the works are agreed, vouchers will start to be issued from
the end of September so work can commence.
The GGF is continuing to engage in the Government’s work
streams regarding the road to recovery from lockdown impact
and will keep members up to speed with all developments.
[email protected]
ARCHETECH - PAGE 52