United Kingdom - 'Slash VAT for energy savers'

A Wigan Euro-MP is calling for VAT on energy-saving products to be slashed.

Liberal Democrat Chris Davies spoke out as gas and electricity prices are set to soar by up to 27%.

There has already been an overall rise of 90% increase in gas bills since 2003, while electricity bills have risen by 66%.

Mr Davies says the increases must spur the Government to promote energy efficiency measures for households.

A recent survey by the Energy Savings Trust revealed that Britons are Europe's worst energy wasters.

It claims that simple improvements could reduce heating costs by a third, knocking £250 off average household bills.
Experts say cavity wall insulation can pay for itself in five years while the costs of loft insulation can be recouped in just two years.

The cheapest improvements, insulation jackets for hot water tanks and better draught proofing, can produce a 100% return on investment within months.

The MEP is also calling for a reduction in VAT on energy saving products.

Source : Wigan Today - Wigan, England, , dated 09/01/2008