Mr. Robert AinsworthTo ask the Secretary of State for the Environment what progress has been made by Government Departments towards meeting the energy saving targets given in "Climate Change: The UK Programme." [8022]
§ Mr. Robert B. JonesFigures for the energy efficiency performance of the Government estate are published annually. In 1993–94, the latest year for which figures are available, the standard energy cost performance indicator showed a reduction of 6 per cent. from the base year 1990–91.
Mr. AinsworthTo ask the Secretary of State for the Environment what programmes he has introduced to increase the energy efficiency of domestic appliances; and what progress these programmes have made towards the targets set in "Climate Change: The UK Programme." [8020]
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§ Mr. JonesIn view of the international market in domestic appliances, we have been working with our European partners under the Community's SAVE—specific actions for rigorous energy efficiency—programme on a number of initiatives. We have adopted minimum efficiency standards for central heating boilers, and energy labelling requirements for other domestic appliances. We are in the process of adopting minimum efficiency standards for refrigerators and freezers which will lead initially to energy savings of 15 per cent. for new models. Further measures under the SAVE programme are under discussion.
In the UK, we will be supporting the Energy Saving Trust in a number of projects to enhance the take-up of energy efficient appliances. We are also in consultation with consumer groups and manufacturers about cost-effective ways to bring forward and promote the take-up of appliances which are more energy efficient.
All of these measures will contribute to achieving our energy saving targets.