The UK Green Building Council (UK-GBC) is urging the Chancellor to use his Budget 2013 to demonstrate the Coalition's commitment to energy efficiency as a key driver of green growth and to give the construction sector a timely boost.
George Osborne is due to deliver his statement on Wednesday (20 March) and should end the uncertainty over zero carbon homes and commit to boosting the Green Deal, UK-GBC says.

In the Budget UK-GBC would like to see a clear commitment from government to ensure all homes are zero carbon from 2016 and commercial properties from 2019. It is also calling for the Building Regulations (Part L) for 2013 to be strengthened and for clarity on 'Allowable Solutions' - the policy which enables developers to invest in carbon mitigation schemes.

In addition, UK-GBC wants to see incentives to encourage the uptake of the Green Deal, such as reductions in stamp duty or council tax for energy efficient properties, to make it more attractive to householders.

Paul King, ceo of UK-GBC, said: 'A focus on green growth would boost the construction industry's confidence to invest and create jobs, as well as helping the UK to meet its legally binding carbon targets. We've heard David Cameron talk up energy efficiency and the green economy, but the Budget is the Chancellor's opportunity to demonstrate that he is singing from the same hymn sheet.'

He continued: 'We need an end to mixed messages which create a risky and damaging environment for business. Ending the dithering on zero carbon homes once and for all and throwing Treasury's weight behind the Green Deal would show that the Coalition is serious about the opportunity here.'