The National Insulation Association says that there needs to be a major increase in External Wall Insulation (EWI) installations under the Green Deal and Energy Company Obligation (ECO) to support the achievement of the Government’s climate change targets and deliver major savings on consumer’s energy bills.

The National Insulation Association (NIA) represents the major manufacturers/system designers and installers of EWI. The association has:

  • Established a new Solid Wall Insulation (SWI) external stakeholder group including representatives from consumer groups, energy suppliers, Government and housing providers to co-ordinate cross sector delivery plans
  • Formed a new dedicated SWI Council within the NIA comprising industry experts to formulate industry development plans for EWI including quality assurance and consumer protection
  • Worked with Government in bringing about amendments to the planning requirements for EWI meaning that in many cases EWI can now be carried out without the need for a planning application
  • Undertaken a series of special briefing events with DECC and other representative  bodies to inform key stakeholders including local authorities, housing associations,  private landlords, energy suppliers and consumer groups  of the different  types of EWI, the benefits provided and support available from the NIA and its members
  • Introduced new services for Green Deal Providers and ECO funders to access the NIA’s EWI members to obtain advice on scheme design and undertake the installation work
  • Increased the awareness and understanding of EWI amongst consumers through its website and a series of articles and features in national and local media
  • Been working with DECC and CITB in the development of new training programmes and funding to support industry expansion
  • Provided advice and guidance to its members on how to gain accreditation and access the Green Deal and ECO through a dedicated Green Deal Bulletin and series of special briefing events.

Neil Marshall, Chief Executive of the NIA, said: “The NIA has a key role to play in supporting its members, Government and external stakeholders in bringing about the necessary market transformation and ensuring that consumers obtain the benefits provided by EWI including savings on their energy bills of around £490* per year.  Working in partnerships is the key to success and we will continue to take a leadership role in this respect.”

 

* Estimated savings if an uninsulated home installed External Wall Insulation based on a three bedroom gas heated semi-detached house. Figures from the Energy Saving Trust.