Energy companies withdraw pensioners funding for winter insulation

4.58.07pm BST (GMT +0100) Mon 1st Sep 2008

A local MP is calling on Gordon Brown to instruct energy companies to continue providing free insulation for Stockport pensioners, after suppliers threatened to withdraw funding for the scheme last week.

The Carbon Emission Reduction Target scheme (CERT) required energy companies to provide insulation for the over 70s for free and at a discounted rate for others. However, the number of elderly people signing up for the scheme far exceeded the CERT target, resulting in a budget shortfall. Energy suppliers are now withdrawing funding leaving many with installation work not yet started or half completed.

Commenting, Mr Stunell said:

"At a time when energy companies are printing their own money, it is a disgrace that pensioners should be forced to pay to increase the energy efficiency of their homes.

"We are heading into winter when many old people will face the choice of eating or heating. Properly insulated homes would reduce fuel bills and prevent people having to make this terrible choice.

"The Government talk about easing the credit crunch, but when it comes to helping people lowering their energy bills with more efficient insulation, they are failing miserably."

ENDS

Notes to editors:

1. For more information please contact Zoë Horwich on 020 7219 5223 or at horwichz@parliament.uk