Rates proposal for greener homes

Reduced rates could be available to people in Northern Ireland with energy efficient homes.

New government proposals suggest giving money back to those who take steps to lower their carbon emissions.

Finance Minister Nigel Dodds said it comes at a time when energy costs were at an all-time high and of concern to every householder.

"Helping householders cope with rising costs of living is an added benefit of more energy-efficient homes," he said.

Mr Dodds is seeking views on two specific proposals.

Firstly, the provision of a rate rebate to existing householders who make energy efficiency improvements, such as cavity wall and loft insulation.

The second is for an initial exemption from rates for up to five years for the first residents of new homes that meet the proposed new zero-carbon standards.

"The longer term benefit of more energy efficient homes is that they will be cheaper to heat, more fuel efficient and with the proposed rate rebate save householders money, which in this present climate will be more than welcome.

"Should these 'green' proposals prove effective, the local taxation system could be used more in the future to further incentivise energy conservation and help create a more sustainable future for all," the minister said.