About the Window Scrappage Scheme
What is the Window Scrappage Scheme all about?
The Window Scrappage scheme is a petition setup by The Glass & Glazing Federations (GGF) to lobby the government to introduce a scrappage scheme for ‘Energy Rated Windows’. The scheme aims to encourage householders to scrap their old poorly insulated windows in return for a grant for £1000 from the government towards the installation of new energy efficient windows. The ePetition is set up on the Prime Ministers Official website www.number10.gov.uk and you can sign the petition for the windows scrappage scheme at petitions.number10.gov.uk/windowscrappage
In an effort to combat global warming the UK government has set a target of reducing CO2 levels by 30% by 2030. The Windows Scrappage Scheme would help the government meet these targets by acting as an incentive for UK households to replace their old inefficient windows with new energy efficient, well insulated windows.
Up to a massive 25% of the heat generated in a house can be lost through inefficient windows. This is not only harmful to the environment but also increases the cost of a households gas and electricity bills considerably. By replacing inadequate poorly insulated windows you will be helping the environment and saving money on your utility bills.
How will Energy Rated Windows help save me money?
It is generally recognised that if you live in a single glazed house and install Energy Efficient Windows you could reduce the energy you use by 0.30 tonnes (or 18%) per year. This calculation is based on ‘an average, semi-detached house’.
A comparison in energy saving costs can be provided for the different ratings of windows. By switching to Energy Efficient Windows you can save energy and reduce your household bills by over £500 a year (Savings calculated from Glass and Glazing Federation and based on total window area of 12.51m.)
Recent developments in the double glazing industry now means double glazed windows can be rated the same way as white goods, such as fridges can. This simple scheme controlled by the BFRC (British Fenestration Rating Council) allows windows that have been put through a rigorous testing process to display a rating from A – G with an A rating being the best.
There are two major reasons why you should choose windows that carry a ‘C’ rating or higher when you improve you home;
1. They are better for the environment
2. They save you money
In simple terms, energy rated windows utilise the suns FREE solar power to help heat your home. Excellent insulation qualities ensure that ‘heat loss’ through your windows is kept to a minimum. Both of these functions result in your heating bills and energy consumption being dramatically reduced.
Only windows that carry a ‘C’ rating or higher are considered ‘Energy Saving’.
