In order to stimulate such a market here there are a number of key actions that could be taken by Government:
Abolish or reduce VAT on renewable energy technology (0% in Germany, 5 % in UK, 21% Ireland)
Grant aid new build that demonstrates a Building Energy Rating (BER) performance greater than 40 % of the current building regulations (with a potential saving of between 1.5 - 2 Tonnes of CO2 per annum)
Further liberalisation of electricity connections. Currently the ESB will not entertain reverse metering, an essential element in the generation of small-scale renewable electricity
Give clear directions to planners to support planning applications for small scale wind turbines and solar panels for both hot water and electricity
Set up a separate Government Agency perhaps under SEI to deal with this area, which would be given the remit to drive a public awareness campaign on available renewable technology and available grants
Develop interest free loans from a government agency for such technology
Develop accreditation and certification for renewable energy technology and its installers
A government agency should provide feasibility studies on individual one off projects for free or for a nominal fee
Following the establishment of such an agency government needs to release funds of circa e10,000,000 for grant aid plus associated administrative costs
When all factors are considered, Building Regulations are the worst possible standard permitted by law. In terms of energy efficiency, the vast majority of housing has still been built to old standards over the last few years, with no incentive to build any better then regulations. As Kyoto Fines approach, it is imperative to take action and offer real support to people building their own house in reducing CO2.
Much of current housing output has difficulties in acheiving compliance even with the minimum permittable standards
What I am proposing, can I believe be done at a very small cost to the taxpayer and provide a net benefit to the State in the long term. Such initiatives as outlined above would ensure maintenance of high and stable levels of economic growth & employment in the area of renewable energy technology and low energy demand buildings. It would show leadership on the part of the current Government parties in the area of social progress which recognises the needs of every one with respect to the environment, while also promoting protection of the environment, prudent use of natural resources, and limiting our exposure to large fines imposed through Kyoto, through the reduction of CO2 output.
Here is hoping that the EPBD raises awareness of CO2 and energy awareness. There's a general election around the corner and its time to take low energy buildings and renewables to the top of the agenda, or else we will all be paying the penalties in more ways than one.
