Efforts to switch energy practices could be undermined by lack of trained workforce - 17/12/2009
The promise of a low-carbon economy could inspire more people to compare energy practices, but the lack of a sufficiently-trained workforce could hamper developments.
According to the House of Commons environmental audit committee, just over £400 million has been set aside by the government for the development of a low-carbon economy, but this represents just a sixth of necessary funding, reports the Guardian.
The committee suggested partly addressing the problem by introducing domestic energy efficiency measures on a street-by-street basis, just as the Conservatives have said they will do if they win power next year.
According to the paper, the report said: "Most of the work is labour-intensive and involves pretty rapid paybacks - improving the insulation in older buildings often produces a payback much quicker than five years."
The green economy could be worth £6.5 billion a year if energy efficiency is instigated more quickly, the committee said.
Proposals to remove the need for businesses to get planning permission for microgeneration equipment are being considered by the government.
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