Green groups have welcomed today’s vote by MPs to continue with the introduction of Home Information Packs. Friends of the Earth, WWF-UK and CPRE urged MPs to support HIPs because of their role in delivering Energy Performance Certificates. Campaigners feared that with only two weeks until the introduction of HIPs any successful attempt to derail them by opposition parties would lead to a lengthy delay in EPCs, and open them up to attempts by opponents to water them down.

The environmental groups support EPCs because they can play an important role in tackling the UK’s contribution to climate change, as well as saving homeowners money.

From 1 June anyone selling a property must obtain an EPC which will assess a home’s energy efficiency and recommend cost-effective measures to improve its energy efficiency – and save on fuel bills too. Our homes are responsible for over a quarter of UK carbon dioxide emissions. Carbon dioxide emissions have risen in the UK over recent years, despite Government promises of substantial cuts.

According to the Government the average homeowner could save up to £300 a year on fuel bills if they acted on the energy efficiency measures recommended in their EPC.

Friends of the Earth’s Green Homes campaigner Dave Timms said:

“We are delighted that Energy Performance Certificates have cleared this hurdle. EPCs, which are supported by all parties, will help homeowners tackle climate change and save money. It would have been a tragedy they had become a casualty of the row over Home Information Packs.

“UK homes are responsible for over a quarter of UK carbon dioxide emissions. It is crucial that this vital measure is not delayed. We hope the Lords will also give their backing when they vote next week.”

CPRE Chief Executive Shaun Spiers said:

“People need much more information, and discussion, about the amount of energy they use at home if we're going to tackle climate change - which is a huge threat to England's countryside. Today's vote is an important step towards getting effective energy labelling for every home.”