Environmentally aware to be hit by 'turbine tax'

Thursday, February 01 2007 11:17:44 by Editor

In a move heavily criticised by environmental campaigners, homeowners trying to be eco-friendly by installing a wind turbine on the roof of their home could find themselves faced with a higher council tax.

By claiming that eco-friendly energy generating appliances are a "home improvement", local councils could charge green-focused homeowners more money on the grounds that their property will be worth more money, according to Home.co.uk.

An all-party Commons trade and industry committee report stated: "If home owners invest in solar panels, wind turbines or energy efficiency measures, this is likely to increase the value of their properties and result in higher council tax bills."

The probable measures have not been enough to put off one Woking resident however, who claims the environmentally friendly measures around his home not only ease his green conscience but also save him huge amounts of money.

Retired business manager Alex Woodward lives in Linden Homes' flagship eco development and is extremely pleased with the positives he has gained from having solar panels and water conservation methods in his property.

"My water bills have been halved and heating costs have decreased dramatically since moving from the old family home last year," he said.

"Something as simple as the inclusion of a water-butt in the garden to conserve and recycle rainwater makes a big difference given the increasing restrictions during summer.

He also praised the efficiency of the condensing boiler and the central heating systems that had been put in, adding: "High levels of insulation appear to be key to this and my wife and I have really noticed the difference in the warmth and dryness of our home."

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