Local MP helps win binding target for energy efficiency

12.00.00am UTC (GMT +0000) Wed 1st Dec 2004

A huge coalition of campaign groups has thanked local MP Paul Burstow, for playing a crucial part in the success of the campaign to obtain a binding Government target to improve the energy efficiency of English homes by 20% by 2010.

After a lengthy campaign, which saw a substantial Labour revolt in the House of Commons, the Government bowed to sustained pressure and accepted the target they and previous Governments had been resisting for many years.

This means that the Government is committed to saving 5 million tonnes of carbon each year from household energy efficiency by 2010. The new energy efficiency target is now a statutory duty, which any future Government, of whatever political persuasion, is legally required to introduce policies to achieve.

Andrew Warren, Chair of the Sustainable Energy Partnership said

'This is a considerable triumph for both the energy efficiency industry and the environment. It has only occurred as a result of consistent and effective campaigning by a vast number of organisations.

'We are very pleased that Paul Burstow played a part in persuading the Government of the need for a change of heart by signing Parliamentary motions in favour of a change and by voting in the House of Commons.'