London Leading on Green Retrofits

When it comes to retrofitting old properties with green technology, London has become a leader after it was announced as a Low Carbon Economic Area (LCEA). London is just the seventh city across the UK to be awarded this title, in a scheme that was designed to help encourage properties to become more energy efficient.

The scheme works to help retrofit as many properties as possible, making them more energy efficient and cutting down on carbon emissions. This will also help to make energy bills more affordable for householders. Measures include double glazing in windows, which can help to keep homes naturally warmer.

The scheme was designed to help ensure that the UK is a leader in this green sector, and businessman Ian Lucas said that ‘London will be a world-leading centre for energy efficient buildings, specialising in retrofitting activity’. There is a huge variety of building types across the city, which provides a number of opportunities for green skills that can be transferred to other areas.

Around £90 million has already been put into a number of properties by Regional Development Agencies. Plans include retrofitting programmes, low carbon business growth, green employment skills development and more.

Head of the London Development Agency, Sir Peter Rogers, said ‘We are pleased that our achievements are being recognised by London’s designation as a Low Carbon Economic Area. In the future, London’s financial muscle will provide the investments that turn these schemes into long-term commercial enterprises, with new businesses, new jobs and new skills’.