CBI wants the 'green' light for energy efficient driving tests

Friday, March 12, 2010

Category: Home Improvements

According to a new CBI report, containing ‘recommendations to pave the way for the development of low-carbon cars and homes’, transport emissions could be reduced and motorists could save money by making energy-efficient driving a compulsory part of the driving test.

In fact, it has been revealed that fuel savings of 5 to 10 percent would be possible, which reportedly equates to an annual sum between £200 and £250.

CBI Director of Business Environment, Dr Neil Bentley, commented: "More than a quarter of the UK's greenhouse gases come from personal transport, half of which are from cars.  Making small changes to the way we all drive will reduce carbon emissions and could save motorists up to £250 a year.

"Simply changing gears more smoothly to avoid sharp breaking and acceleration can reduce fuel consumption by a third.  Learner drivers already have to demonstrate they can drive in a fuel-efficient way during the course of their driving test, but this is not a pass or fail element.
"Making energy-efficient driving techniques a mandatory part of the test will make a significant contribution to changing the next generation of motorists' behaviour, and to cutting transport emissions."

"The Government needs to take action now to incentivise consumers to make energy efficient choices and ensure it provides the right framework to spur on businesses to develop exciting new products and services."

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Homeowners who would like to enhance the energy-efficiency of their property could consider taking out a secured loan for home improvements.  One of many finance options available, a secured loan for this purpose could fund thorough insulation for example.  Furthermore, borrowers may wish to utilise the funds to replace any draughty doors and windows, or even an ineffective boiler.  Solar panels could also be invested in to make the most of the sun’s natural resources.  Measures such as these could potentially leave homeowners with lower long-term energy bills.