The Energy Performance Certificates (EPCs) which come bundled with Home Information Packs should push energy-efficiency further into the public consciousness, one leading environmental group is claiming.

Hips now cover 63 per cent of the UK's housing stock and the EPCs that come with them give dwellings a fridge-style energy-efficiency rating which indicate the uptake of green technologies such as double glazing insulation and renewable energy supplies.

As Sam Turnbull, co-founder of DownwithCO2.co.uk, points out, the certificates could have a significant impact on decisions made by homebuyers in an increasingly competitive property market.

"Energy efficiency could become a differentiator between two or three similar properties," explained Mr Turnbull. "People will look at which will cost the most to run, which has the most efficient boiler and which is best insulated."

His comments give weight to recent observations by leading fee-free mortgage broker London and Country which suggested that Hips are succeeding in turning the general public on to the importance of sustainability.

The government has announced plans to make all new homes zero carbon by 2016.

© Adfero Ltd

Author:  Joanne McCabe

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