The Department of Energy and Climate Change has revealed that one in ten Green Deal companies have had their certifications revoked due to non-compliance of the Green Deal Code of Practice.
Ten per cent of Green Deal Assessor organisations and 12% of registered installers have been removed due to non-compliance.
Marcus Jefford, from Greenworks Training Academy, said:
“Consumer confidence in initiatives like the Green Deal isn’t just important to keep the schemes alive, it’s about the public’s perception of renewable and energy-efficient technology in general. Until homeowners perceive the benefits and trust that it will make a difference to their bills, the industry will struggle to make real traction. This is why it is so important to stamp out substandard Green Deal installations and assessments.
“Unfortunately, there will always be cowboys in the building industry. However, the right training should show installers not just how to save the customer money, but how they can make a healthy business out of it too, evidencing that there is no need to cut corners.
“To make a real difference to the energy efficiency of UK homes, contractors of all trades must engage with the technology, techniques and training that are out there. If enough good tradespeople feel comfortable in the relatively new sustainable building, energy efficiency and renewables market, it should go a long way to squeeze out substandard companies that are out to take advantage of homeowners.
“Another important way to help installers provide a quality and trusted service is to work closely with reputable manufacturers and distributors. The support you can receive from them can be invaluable in informing customers about the benefits, as well as ensuring you are getting the best deal too.
“We must work together to ensure that we have the right product, training and knowledge necessary to improve consumer’s trust in the industry. Without this it will be very difficult to make a significant difference to the energy consumption of UK homes.”
The figures surfaced on the same day that the latest instalment of the Green Deal Home Improvement Fund was opened. £70 million is on offer, enabling homeowners to claim up to £5,600 for work, including solid wall insulation, double-glazing or a new boiler. But in order to be eligible, the household requires the involvement of certified Green Deal Assessors and Green Deal Installers.