Assembly considers boiler scrappage

A scrappage scheme for inefficient boilers could be rolled out in Wales after interest soared in England since its January launch.

Up to 125,000 English households can apply to the Energy Saving Trust for a £400 voucher towards installing a new A-rated boiler or renewable heating system if their current boiler is G-rated.

The Welsh Assembly is due to receive £4.074 million from the national Government for the policy, and environment minister Jane Davidson said the scheme would focus on 'fuel poor households'.

'The Welsh Assembly Government is considering introducing a similar scheme in Wales, and we are currently working up a series of proposals taking into consideration the impact on those in fuel poverty, the relative carbon savings and value for money,' she said.

The heating industry said it costs about £2,500 to purchase and install a new boiler. On Wednesday, Ms Davidson told the Senedd that 0.06 per cent of English homes receive help.

Tory AM Alun Cairns said: 'There is very little new in this that the minister didn't say on Wednesday. The fact remains that for the foreseeable future people in Wales will not be able to benefit from a scheme already running in England.'