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The latest addition to the national branding campaign is the newly designed exhibition vehicle, affectionately known as Eviii. The new livery is designed as part of the national branding campaign.
“EViii is a superb addition to the fleet,” says Nick Dutton, Sales and Marketing Director. “Because the livery is part of the branding campaign it is easily recognisable by consumers. It can be used for trade and retail exhibitions.”
EViii go to show off her new livery as her first trip out was over the bank holiday weekend. Carlisle based Finesse PVCu Ltd took her to the Northumberland County Show where she took pride of place at the showground.

Andy Kempson

Manse Masterdor Ltd reports the sad death of Andy Kempson, Regional Manager for West Midlands, the South West and Wales, in a road traffic accident on 3rd May.

Mike Hudson, Associate Director said: 'Andy had worked for us in the past and had returned to us at the beginning of the year. He was well known in the door industry and will be missed not only by his colleagues at Manse but also by the many friends he had amongst his clients and fellow sales professionals.

'It appears that Andy and his wife Janet were enjoying a recreational ride on their motorbike when there was a collision with a motor vehicle. Janet is recovering in hospital and our thoughts are with her and their son Andrew at this sad time.'

Promac's Eleventh Heaven

Promac has now sold eleven fully automated For.El Super Spacer® lines including two at Camden Frames as the demand for WER's gains momentum.

The demand for Window Energy Ratings has come from manufacturers, trade installers and consumers alike who see merit and opportunity in providing energy efficient products. Growing consumer awareness of the Energy Savings Recommended logo and the associated benefits of using ESR products will ultimately determine the growth within this sector. With pressure being applied from the very highest level in Government to reduce the countries carbon footprint the WER's story is set to run and run.

The following nine companies have made the necessary investments in machinery and systems to produce high volume energy efficient products as standard: Oakland Glass; Padiham Glass (2 lines); Cleartherm; Direct Window Company; Provincial Windows; Camden Frames (2 lines); Warm Edge Units; Dalgan Wood Industries and Twinseal.

As a result of the investment, companies have seen production levels increase by as much as 100% against previous years, with the emphasis for demand being placed on their energy rated products.

Joe Hague, head of the glass division comments: 'There are an estimated 16 fully automated Super Spacer® lines in the UK and Ireland, 11 of which have been supplied and installed by Promac / For.EL. This clearly endorses For.El's global reputation for engineering, design & performance combined with Promac's proven background in service support and installation.

NHBC Response to HIPs Delay Announcement

NHBC, the independent authority on new home construction in the UK, has welcomed the announcement from Communities and Local Government Minister, Ruth Kelly, to delay the introduction of Home Information Packs (HIPs). Whilst NHBC has a HIP provision service in place it has expressed concerns that the wider market is not currently able to service the volumes of HIPs which have been suggested.

Imtiaz Farookhi, NHBC Chief Executive, said: ‘We welcome the news from the Government that HIPs will not come into force until August 1, 2007. We have maintained the view that the introduction of HIPs could have serious and adverse consequences on the supply of homes for sale.

‘With the currently insufficient numbers of qualified HIP providers we believe that the legislation needs to be phased in over a longer period so that consumers do not bear the brunt of problems in the implementation of this new policy.’

Spectus Appoints Duncan Douglas as Sales and Marketing Director

Duncan Douglas has joined Spectus as Sales and Marketing Director to develop the brand and help customers grow. He'll be building on the progress made since the company was acquired by Latium.

Duncan brings 23 years of successful, senior level, sales experience with him gained at a premium systems company and with major fabricators. ‘Spectus has a reputation for professionalism and innovation,’ comments Duncan, ‘and for having one of the best and most comprehensive product ranges on the market. Latium has brought resources, renewed focus and a stability many of our competitors find hard to match. The potential is enormous.’

Duncan continues: ‘New business is key, but helping existing customers improve their sales and profitability is equally important. Having worked for fabricators and for systems companies I can empathise with both sides, quickly developing the strong working relationships necessary for successful business.’

Managing Director Sam Kennedy adds: ‘The window industry has always generated a fast-moving and challenging environment, especially in recent years. The market is currently undergoing a complete restructuring and transformation. Only certain systems companies will be relevant to fabricators as the market evolves. As a premium systems company, Spectus is uniquely placed to lead the field, and Duncan will be spearheading its growth.’

Tel: 01625 420400
Web: http://www.spectus.co.uk

Hanley Trade Frames joins Spectus

Hanley Trade Frames, the Stoke-on-Trent based fabricator and installer is now fabricating Spectus' Elite 70 range with ovolo finish. Impressed by the professionalism of Spectus' technical, sales and marketing teams, Geoff Thomas, Managing Director of Hanley Trade Frames said that the decision to switch was a simple one based on quality of product and available support - both during the change over period and afterwards.

‘We had been with our previous systems company for over seven years,’ Geoff continues. However, we recognised that we needed to update our product offer to compete in the ever competitive market for PVC-u windows and doors. The quality of Elite 70 and the range of other items in the range such as patio and bi-fold doors and Vertical Sliders all appealed. The breadth of the range on offer also means that we can source all our products from one supplier - making ordering and tracking deliveries a much simpler task for us.’

Hanley Trade Frames is a family business run by Geoff with sons Paul and Steve. It currently produces around 150-200 windows each week and supplies only to the trade and direct to the public in Staffordshire and Cheshire.

Top of the Class for SGG SWISSPACER®

The warm-edge spacer bar SGG SWISSPACER goes to the top of the class again in the Window Energy Rating Scheme.

This time the A rating is for Lister Trade Frames, which has used double glazed units from Solaglas Coventry in the company’s modified window design.

The result is a commercially viable, competitively priced A+1 rated window.

‘Sales of SGG SWISSPACER units have increased dramatically this year,’ advises David Danger, Solaglas Regional General Manager and Business Manager for Solaglas Coventry.

‘We have several major accounts now buying SWISSPACER units from us in really quite significant volumes. Having the product in our portfolio has also helped us to win new business, which is especially encouraging.’

SGG SWISSPACER, when combined with the advanced performance, neutral SGG PLANITHERM TOTAL and the low-iron SGG DIAMANT, is proving to be a winner in the Window Energy Ratings Scheme.

Not only does it perform well technically, it has the advantage of being a rigid warm-edge spacer bar which ensures a clean sight line every time and it also gives more stability to the sealed unit.

For more information contact the Solaglas Coventry sealed unit business on 024 7654 7400, or email solaglas.gpd@saint-gobain-glass.com

Thermlock Sales Double in Two Years

Sales of Thermlock, the patented thermally enhanced reinforcement from L.B. Plastics, are growing rapidly as demand for stronger, more secure and thermally superior windows soars.

In the last two years Thermlock sales have doubled and it now sits alongside conventional aluminium and steel as a third alternative in reinforcement. Thermlock is now being used exclusively by some Sheerframe fabricators and is specified by name by social housing providers.

One of the key drivers for increased Thermlock demand is its excellent thermal performance compared to aluminium and steel reinforcement. Using Thermlock to reinforce a Sheerframe window ensures that the important 1.8W/m2K U-value is easily surpassed without the need for exotic and costly combinations of glass and gas.

It delivers these enhanced thermal qualities thanks to a specialist thermoplastic compound which is manufactured using recycled materials and encapsulates an inner metal core. This outer skin transforms the thermal performance of the reinforcing material to achieve a structurally sound, energy efficient window in the full range of style options including composite doors and top reversibles.

‘This excellent thermal performance is coupled with a torsional rigidity many times better than steel and its deflection strength is 35 per cent stronger than standard aluminium,’ says David Strang, Sheerframe marketing director.

‘Thermlock is a crucial component in windows for sustainable homes and increasing numbers of fabricators are realising the benefits that it offers over standard reinforcing materials. Its contribution to delivering a thermally improved and stronger window is highly marketable for fabricators and installers as energy efficiency and sustainability are now key factors in purchasing decisions by housebuilders as well as in retail refurb and social housing.’

Thermlock also has practical benefits for fabricators. It is warm and clean to the touch, making it more pleasant and safer to work with than normal reinforcing. And once in place, its specially designed screw pick-up ridges make fixing into Thermlock easier, delivering 25 per cent greater pull-out strength on handles, keeps, shootbolts and hinge fixings.

Different Thermlock profiles are designed to sit snugly and neatly within specially designed chambers within the Sheerframe 7000 and Sheerframe 6000 systems.

For further information on Thermlock from L.B. Plastics, telephone 01773 852311 or visit http://www.sheerframe.co.uk.

Haven Home Improvements Window is ‘A’ OK

Eurocell Profiles Ltd and Wisbech-based Haven Home Improvements have come up with what is claimed to be one of the most cost-effective ‘A’-rated windows on the market.

Haven Home Improvements wanted to offer its customers the option of an ‘off the shelf’ ‘A’ energy-rated window that was also affordably priced and would give the company a competitive edge in the market. The company can now offer A B and C-rated windows to meet customer requirements.

The window is manufactured from Eurocell’s Ultimate 70 system which features an attractive slimline sash, which was a major contributor to these ratings as well as offering improved sight lines.

The 28mm glazing unit is comprised of an outer pane of Pilkington Optiwhite™glass, a Saint Gobain Swisspacer V spacer bar, and an Argon gas filled cavity with Pilkington K Glass™ on the internal pane. The design benefits from having no additional profile inserts, meaning there is no additional profile cost while the window maintains its rigidity with steel reinforcing. The window remains cost-effective because the only premium over a standard Part L compliant window is in the upgraded insulated glass unit.

Andy Jones from Haven Home Improvements explains: 'We are really excited about what this means for our company and it could not have been achieved without Eurocell’s technical expertise and support. ‘A’ rated energy efficient windows are now within reach of the majority of our customers and we are looking forward to demonstrating to homeowners the benefits in terms of reduced energy bills and greater comfort.'

‘A’ rated windows are highly recommended by the Energy Savings Trust as the most energy efficient options leading to lower running costs and less adverse environmental impact

The first stage of the process was for Haven Home Improvements to secure ISO9001, which it successfully achieved in November 2006. Eurocell Profiles then carried out the computer simulations on a number of variations of window sections, glazing combinations and spacer bars until they came up with an option that Andy was happy with which achieved the best rating at a cost effective price.

The Eurocell prepared simulation report was submitted to the BBA which approved the design and carried out an audit of Haven’s manufacturing processes to ensure it met with the strict guidelines.

Finally, the British Fenestration Rating Council (BFRC) awarded the window an ‘A’ rating which demonstrates to consumers, specifiers and developers how it meets the highest possible energy efficiency requirements.

Martin Saunders, Sales Director of Eurocell Profiles Ltd said; 'Our role is to help fabricators gain a competitive edge in the market. Whether they require design, technical, market or sales support, we are fully committed to driving their businesses forward. By helping Haven Home Improvements develop their ‘A’ rated window we have created a market-leading product that should enable them to secure even more sales.'

Martin Saunders continues: 'Offering customers the option of energy efficient windows is a great opportunity for fabricators to gain a competitive edge, especially because of the introduction of energy ratings in Home Information Packs. As around 25 per cent of a home’s heat is lost through the windows, this gives fabricators the chance to demonstrate how choosing the right windows are vital to reducing fuel bills and improving energy ratings.'

The BFRC’s rating method takes into account all relevant factors including U-values, solar heat gain along with air leakage and enables the accurate comparison of the performance of windows under identical conditions using the Rating Band. The BFRC Rating is graded from ‘A’ to ‘G’ with ‘A’ being the most energy efficient. The grading system is already familiar to consumers as it has been used on white goods and light bulbs for some time.

The achievement of the new ‘A’ rating is a great marketing tool for Eurocell fabricators. The A-G Energy Window label, which is clearly visible on all rated products, will enable consumers to rapidly compare the energy efficiency of different windows.

Andy McDowell Product Manager at Pilkington Building Products also adds:

'This latest achievement from Eurocell is exciting news and further evidence of the leading performance of the UK market’s favourite low E, Pilkington K Glass™ here used in Eurocell Ultimate 70 system's slim frames. Combined with ultra clear low-iron float glass, Pilkington Optiwhite™, with argon filling and a high performance warm-edge spacer bar, Eurocell fabricators can now offer customers a cost effective A-rated solution, endorsed by the market’s leading glass brand.'

Eurocell Profile is committed to enhancing energy efficiency across its whole range as part of helping fabricators secure greater customer conversions.

For more information visit the website http://www.eurocell.co.uk or contact the technical department on 01773 837490 or visit Haven’s website http://www.havenhomeimprovements.com.

SGG Swisspacer helps Eurocell to Achieve its first A-rated Window

SGG Swisspacer, the European warm-edge specialist, has once more proved its capability to compete in the British market, where more and more people are asking for Energy Saving Recommended Windows. Eurocell Profiles Ltd, a part of Fairbrook plc, has achieved an 'A' rating for one of the company’s windows using SGG SWISSPACER.

Philipp Parry, Design Draughtsman for the British company, has also recently announced ‘Eurocell is delighted to have achieved our first BFRC A rated window which we consider to be the most cost effective on the market.’

SGG Swisspacer thanks to its excellent technical performance and to its product mix contributed to this success. Phil Parry explains: ‘SGG Swisspacer units combined with the Eurocell Ultimate 70 window system allows our fabricators to produce 'financially viable' windows which carry the highest energy rating possible. These windows are manufactured to our standard specification and therefore still maintain all there strength and rigidity. The Eurocell Ultimate 70 A rated window is a cost effective solution as the only upgrade over a standard Part L compliant window is the upgraded double glazed unit.’

He continues: ‘As a company we were aware from very early on of the marketing potential for fabricators of having an A rated window available to them. We were also concerned about the cost implications and other issues some existing A rated windows had associated with them.

‘It is thanks to the development of products like SGG Swisspacer and our ongoing systems development that we can strive to develop more efficient and affordable products in the future’.

Tel: +41 071 686 92 70
Email: swisspacer@saint-gobain.com

Freefoam's Registered Installers Benefit

Freefoam Plastics, a leading manufacturer of PVC roofline and rainwater products in the UK, Ireland and Mainland Europe, has just announced that a significant number of new installers have registered as Freefoam installers in the first four months of the year.

Becoming a registered Freefoam installer comes with many benefits, including Freefoam's 20 Year Extended Guarantee. The 20 Year Extended Guarantee has been a success since it launched in 2003. The guarantee applies to all roofline products and colours and covers against warping, splitting, cracking and discolouration.

Brendan Hyland, Marketing manager, comments, ‘We are delighted with the number of new installers that have registered with Freefoam so far in 2007. The 20 Year Extended Guarantee strengthens the sales message to customers and provides homeowners with peace of mind.’

For more information, contact Freefoam directly on 01604 759871 in the UK, 021 4911055 in Ireland, or email marketing@freefoam.com

Lovell Partnerships Chooses KEB

KEB Fabrications Ltd (KEB) continues to excel in the Social Housing Sector, Lovell Partnerships has chosen KEB as its fenestration Partners for two prestigious projects in the Manchester area.

The two separate projects consist of refurbishment and new build, the work will take two years to complete and will be in excess of over £ 5million.

Lawrence Breakspear KEB’s MD said 'we have worked with Lovell for many years on various projects up and down the country, both on design and build a refurbishment, although we still had to prove to the company that KEB was the right choice and more importantly the right products, we will be installing Profile 22 windows, Doors and Patiomasters superb range of Patio Doors'.

At over a 1000 windows a week KEB proves to its clients that it has the resource, expertise and team infrastructure  to ensure a supply chain place on any scheme Lawrence concluded 'our main contractor partners continue to come back to KEB, because we have proven to then many times over, we are the company to Partner with, any window company can win a job by under pricing, a common error these days especially by Trade window Manufactures wishing to get into Commercial work, However, they are rarely used again by that customer because of failures, quality problems and the lack of experienced personnel , that’s the difference with us, we exceed their expectations and fulfil our promises'.

Top Selling Retractable Screens Now Available in the UK

Phantom Screens, North America's leading brand of retractable insect screens for doors, windows and outside living areas, is now available in the UK.

Designed to improve ventilation and keep insects out without spoiling the view, Phantom Screens are made from an ultra-sheer, tough - yet nearly invisible fibreglass mesh.

Thanks to their ergonomic design, the spring-tensioned screens can be rolled away into an unobtrusive housing that sits snugly in the door or window frame when not in use. They are also made to absorb impact without sagging or tearing.

Available in a range of colours, Phantom Screens are made to measure and fitted by factory-trained professionals. They are suitable for almost any door or window and outside living area, such as a patio.

Says Managing Director Richard Hiblin: ‘Phantom Screens are ideal for anyone who wants to throw open their doors and windows during the summer without being pestered by the uninvited guests that the warm weather inevitably brings.’

As well as being ideal for residential use, Phantom Screens can be installed in commercial premises, where they will protect workers from annoying insects in warm weather, and food factories from insects and vermin, thus complying with hygiene regulations.

Tel: 01778 560070
Email d.hiblin@phantom-screens.co.uk

Continued Investment at Darby Glass

An investment/re-structuring programme has been completed at Darby Glass in its objective to achieve operational excellence across its regional centres.

Spearheading this strategy at Darby Midlands is Mark Lenton, the new General Manager of the Wolverhampton branch. Mark has extensive experience in lean manufacturing and supply chain management from his 17 years with Unipart Logistics, which is now proving invaluable to Darby's ambitious growth and development plans.

Darby Midlands operates two main production streams - insulated glass units (IGU's) and a rapid delivery service for single toughened glass. It also specialises in leaded, bevelled and patterned IGU's. As part of the company's regional investment programme, the furnace is being upgraded for continued output quality, and a soft-coat capable and laminated glass cutting table has been installed.
Adrian Baratt, the Cell Leader in the production plant, has also just joined the growing team.

Although it operates in a highly competitive market, Darby Midlands reports positive sales results. The existing customer base consists mainly of domestic window and conservatory installers, but the well-equipped Wolverhampton facility has the capacity to significantly increase its present output says Mark Lenton, 'We are currently in the process of analysing the market for our products and services so we can target new business opportunities'. To support this strategy a Customer Service Manager, Mayureen Patel, has also been appointed.

As to the future, Mark says that alongside building its IGU customer base, Darby Midlands has plans to develop support with a range of new customer initiatives. ‘I believe the glass industry has plenty of potential and it's up to manufacturers like Darby Glass to show the way forward by adding value to the supply chain, which in turn can help our customers develop their full potential. We work very closely with our customers from order to delivery, and pride ourselves on high levels of service and support to ensure the best possible results.‘

Tel: 01724 280044
Web: http://www.darbyglass.co.uk

The Window Store has Success in its Sights

Window and PVC-U product specialist The Window Store has renewed its sponsorship of UK shooting ace, Charlotte Kerwood.

Olympic hopeful Charlotte shot to fame when she won gold in the double trap in the 2002 Manchester Commonwealth Games, at just 15 years of age.

Four years later she successfully defended her title at the Commonwealth Games in Melbourne and claimed a second gold in the pairs event.

Ranked number one in the UK and fifth in the World, Charlotte switched to a new discipline, Olympic trap at the World Cup in Cairo, winning silver at this year's event in Santo Domigo.

Now the 20 year old hot shot has the 2008 Beijing Olympics firmly in her sights, facing just one more world cup to find out if she has qualified.

Charlotte said: ‘It's obviously every professional sportsman or sportswoman's dream to go to the Olympics.

‘It's something I'm training hard for and hope that my performance at the next World Cup will be good enough to get me there.’

Karl Lodwick of The Window Store said: ‘We have had a long standing sponsorship agreement with Charlotte and have been happy to support her as her sporting career has gone from strength-to-strength.

‘The team at The Window Store will be watching her performance closely at the next World Cup and keeping our fingers crossed that she can go all the way to the Olympics in Beijing.

‘Whatever the outcome, all of us here at The Window Store are incredibly proud of what she has achieved and hope to be able support her in fulfilling her Olympic ambitions.’

Tel: 01323 647374 or visit http://www.windowstoreplastics.com to locate your local branch from on of 14 branches throughout the South East, South West and South Wales.

M1 Road to Success with VEKA

VEKA's Big Rig was out on the road again recently, this time on the streets of Bolsover, Chesterfield. The supersize facility was brought in to assist M1 Trade Frames' new relationship with VEKA, which the fabrication company has entered into.

M1 Trade Frames (a member of Network VEKA) has been well established in the area for five years, with two main show sites - Bolsover and Tansley in Matlock.

Having reviewed its profile supplier, the decision was made to move to VEKA, an agreement that MD, David Jowle, believes will strengthen his company's position in the marketplace and increase profitability.

‘Quality is paramount to us,’ he comments. ‘VEKA has an outstanding reputation in the industry not only for the quality of its product range but also the standard of its customer service policy, the training regime and general discipline. This high level of commitment to the customer mirrors our own dedication to customer satisfaction and we are delighted to be using the renowned VEKA Matrix profiles in the manufacturing of our frames.’

Providing doors, windows and conservatories to both the trade and domestic sectors, M1 Trade Frames has an ongoing policy of investment into improving products and systems. ‘We have the support of VEKA behind us which is very reassuring," continues David. "It also demonstrates that we have the qualities to match up to the VEKA ideal, and as members of the Network VEKA scheme, we intend to expand upon our current rate of production of 160 frames a week.’

With the new agreement with VEKA now in place, M1 Trade Frames is in an ideal position to enter the next phase in the company's operations, using the Matrix profiles as standard in the product range and forging ahead to the future with plans that include further dedicated trade sales representatives and increased production.

Web: http://www.m1tradeframes.com

Solarcentury: Enabling Schools To 'Go Solar'

Solarcentury, the UK solar energy company which says that it has helped more homes, businesses and public buildings go solar than anyone else, has launched Solar4Schools, a new initiative to help British schools go solar in a bid to reduce rising carbon emissions.

The Solar4Schools programme will help make solar energy accessible for schools with the supply and installation of part-funded solar panels. Successful applicants will be provided with a 4kWp photovoltaic (PV) system, or multiples thereof. Without the Solar4Schools scheme each system would cost approximately £20,000; with the scheme the school pays only half the cost, a unique opportunity to access solar PV technology at a significant discount to the usual market rate.

If only 100 schools participate in the Solar4Schools scheme, each having a standard 4kWp PV system installed, their conversion to solar power will save a staggering 200 tonnes of carbon emissions each year; to otherwise offset this amount of carbon we would need to plant over 20,000 oak trees in the UK.

This clean, silent technology is likely to generate around 3,300 kWh per year - the average electricity consumption of a three bedroom house in the UK - saving nearly two tonnes of carbon dioxide from being emitted annually from each building and over nine tonnes per annum for large systems. An average school emits 30-40kg CO2 per m2, with two tonnes the equivalent of 5% of a 1000 m2 buildings' emissions.

Solar4Schools is being launched following the appointment of Solarcentury by the Department of Trade and Industry to supply solar systems to public buildings, including schools, as part of its Low Carbon Buildings programme. The Low Carbon Building Programme will be funded primarily by £50million of the DTI budget.

Solarcentury has partnered with Scottish and Southern Energy to deliver solar installations with its electrical contracting business, Southern Electrical Contracting (SEC). The programme includes both existing properties and new developments, and therefore provides a range of strategic opportunities to develop low carbon buildings.

Jeremy Leggett, CEO Solarcentury says: ‘Solarcentury is delighted to be part of the DTI's programme. We are excited to see the DTI committing to solar power. If schools and public buildings follow their lead they will find that solar in concert with energy efficiency can simply, immediately and dramatically reduce our reliance on fossil fuels. Photovoltaic technology is a widely available clean energy solution that is both very effective and requires little ongoing attention. Our 500+ systems across UK businesses, homes, schools and offices will be reducing C02 emissions by more than 25,000 tonnes over the next 20 years, and we stand ready to do many such installations.’

In addition Solarcentury will provide each of the successful schools with a free activity-based educational pack. The bespoke pack is intended to help educate and inform pupils about the challenge of climate change, and to highlight the importance of efficient energy use and renewable energy. Resources will include national curriculum lesson plans from key stage one to four on climate change, global warming, renewable and solar energy.
Each school will also be given a display meter - which will also be available online - demonstrating the amount of energy being generated by their solar panels, and the total generation and carbon savings for schools to easily monitor progress. Each system comes with an export meter which will allow schools to sell electricity back to the grid when it is not needed, such as the school holidays.

Schools are invited to apply for funding at http://www.solar4schools.co.uk or to register interest by emailing their contact details to: solarschools@solarcentury.com.

Ford Windows wins Sub-Contractor of the Year Award

Sheffield-based Ford Windows has been awarded the prestigious title of ‘Sub-Contractor of the Year’ from George Wimpey West Yorkshire.

Ford Windows scored highly throughout the year to beat off stiff competition from both regional and national contractors to secure first place.

Roger Sidebottom, Chairman of Ford Windows, explains: 'This is a great achievement for us and is credit to the dedication and expertise of our staff. We are delighted to have been recognised in such a way and look forward to continuing our excellent partnership with George Wimpey.'

Roger Sidebottom, chairman of Ford Windows (left) receiving the award from John Murphy, Production Director at George Wimpey, West Yorkshire

John Murphy, Production Director of George Wimpey West Yorkshire, said: 'We would like to congratulate Ford Windows team and to thank them for all their hard work and efforts during 2006. The position of first place is well deserved.'

Eurocell Profiles became Ford Windows’ profile supplier in 2006 and since then the company has gone from strength to strength. This has led to Ford Windows being shortlisted for a Manufacturing Award in the Sheffield Business Awards. Ford Windows uses Eurocell’s Eurologik window and door system. Ford has also benefited from Eurocell’s other extensive ranges, and has recently added products such as bi-folding doors and vertical sliding windows to its range.

Martin Saunders, Sales Director for Eurocell Profiles Ltd adds: 'Ford Windows have set their sights and their standards high and it is no surprise that they have been commended in this way. Well done to all involved!'

For more information on Ford Windows contact 0114 261 7519 or visit the website http://www.fordwindows.co.uk

Rotherham PVCu Fabricator Awarded Three BSI Kitemarks Simultaneously

Calendar Home Improvements is leading the way in improving standards in the window industry by the award of not just one BSI kitemark, but three-all at the same time.

This is a significant achievement for the Rotherham-based Fabricator, which has worked intensively over the past 12 months to achieve these prestigious accreditations:

BS EN1279 Kitemark number KM510366
For the manufacture of Double Glazed Units

BS 7412 and BS 63750 Kitemark number KM510367
For Eurologik internally glazed casements-tilt and turn windows

BS 7950 Kitemark number KM510368
Specification for enhanced security performance

From left to right: Bob Watkin Production Manager, Kevin Frewin, Technical Expert from BSI Product Services, Jim Churchill Managing Director of Calendar Home Improvements, Mr Dennis Emms-Moss, Consultant to Calendar.

The Kitemark is one of the UK's most respected marks and it is very well established and recognised in the windows and doors sector, as a symbol of product quality, safety and reliability, and offers an excellent way of demonstrating commitment to quality, and as a route to demonstrating compliance with the Construction Products Directive.

Calendar's Managing Director, Jim Churchill says, 'We are proud and delighted to have achieved these accreditations and I would like to thank all of those who have worked so hard to make this happen, including our staff, consultants and the BSI itself for its guidance and support. It is a clear indication of our continuing commitment to quality and we are convinced that this development will directly benefit both ourselves and our customers'

Calendar operates a modern computer-controlled window, door, conservatory manufacturing factory and produces high performance PVCu products designed to comply with the most stringent building regulations. Calendar offers a fast and professional manufacturing service to builders and installers across the Midlands and Yorkshire and the North East.

Ian Chamberlain, Product Specialist at BSI Product Services, commented: 'We are very proud to award Calendar with 3 Kitemark licences for the manufacture of their windows, doors. The award of these Kitemarks is the latest acknowledgement of Calendar's commitment to quality'

Web: http://www.calendarhi.co.uk

Mighton Launches first 'B' Rated Sash Window Kit

Ecotilt™, is the first ever 'B' rated timber sash window kit from Mighton Products. With a timber exterior and a PVC-U jamb liner, Ecotilt comes in an easy-to-assemble kit form. The introduction of Home Improvement Packs and Energy Performance Certificates makes energy efficiency paramount when specifying replacement or new sash windows. Mighton says that Ecotilt is the only timber vertical slider available that enables architects to combine authentic looks and energy efficiency. Visit http://www.mightonproducts.com/catalog/eco_tilt_video.php to see a full explanation.

‘Ecotilt is unlike anything on the market,’ Mike Derham, Managing Director of Mighton, explains, ‘it's revolutionary. Ecotilt is not only the first 'B' rated timber sliding sash, it's a unique product in its own right, ideal for joiners and PVC-U installers. Making traditional timber sliding sash windows can be a nightmare, fiddly and hard to get right, with a different specification for each one. Installing sliders (whether timber or PVC-U) can be even harder.

Because Ecotilt is so easy to put together - with minimal routing and joinery - it can radically cut long lead times for sash windows that sometimes hold projects up. It's also a fully functional tilting window (hence the name), and both sashes can be removed for cleaning and maintenance from inside - helping specifiers and architects satisfy the complicated Working at Height regulations.

‘Demand for thermally efficient products is rising in the wake of rising energy bills and media coverage on climate change and Home Improvement Packs. With Ecotilt architects can offer classic good looks and market leading energy efficiency - the best of both worlds.’

Tel: 01223 497097
Email: sales@mighton.co.uk
Web: http://www.mightonproducts.com

The Freefoam Roofline Report

A net* 36% of roofline stockists and installers reported better sales in February to April 2007 compared with November 2006 to January 2007.

A balance of 45% of stockists and installers also increased sales in February to April 2007 compared with the same three months of last year (chart 1). Large companies (net 53%) reported growth but small and mid-sized firms (44%) also sold more. Stockists and installers across the country saw an increase in sales.

On balance, just over one in two specialist stockists sold more roofline compared with a balance of just under a third of specialist installers.

* The net balance is the difference between the percentage of companies reporting an increase over those reporting a decrease.

Sales forecasts
Expectations remain strong with a net 68% of stockists and installers forecasting increased sales in the next three months (May to July 2007) compared with the previous three months. Few expect sales to fall.

Small firms (net 82%) are more positive than mid-sized or large firms (63% and 40% respectively). More stockists and installers in the South and Midlands (net 72%) expect growth than firms in the North (58%).

A net 74% of specialist stockists anticipate better sales over the period but specialist installers (58%) are positive too.

Year-on-year a balance of 49% of stockists and installers expect sales to increase in May to July 2007 compared with the same three months of 2006 (chart 2). Large firms (net 60%) are most upbeat but small (49%) and mid-sized firms (45%) are also positive.
Across the country, firms in the Midlands (net 68%) are more bullish than those in the South (44%) or North (39%).

Both specialist stockists (net 49%) and specialist installers (42%) forecast growth.

Profits
With sales growth and positive expectations, it is not surprising that a balance of 60% of stockists and installers also forecast better profits over the next 12 months compared with the previous 12 months. Expectations are strong across firms of all sizes and in all regions.

Both specialist installers and specialist stockists (net 62%) anticipate an improvement.

Prospects
A net 26% of stockists and installers are more optimistic now about the overall prospects for the roofline market than three months ago. Confidence is broadly similar among firms of all sizes. Companies in the North (net 39%) and South (26%) are more buoyant than those in the Midlands (14%).

Specialist stockists (net 36%) are again more optimistic than specialist installers (19%).

Overview
‘The Global economy is in good health and still looking strong as we enter the second quarter of 2007,’ says Mike Rigby, whose company Rigby Research produced this report. ‘Japan, the world's second largest economy, is growing more quickly than expected. The US is also looking stronger. Although the US housing market and house building is weak, strong consumer spending should continue to support growth. The Eurozone economies are improving and China and India show no sign of slowdown.

‘In the UK, three interest rate rises since August may have cooled the housing market enough to contain house price inflation. Debt levels and house prices affect the decisions consumers make and their confidence in the economy. With price stability, confidence is rebounding.

‘Strengthening consumer confidence means that big ticket home improvements should pick up. With more homeowners staying put and improving their homes rather than moving, and stockists and installers reporting growth, 2007 should be a good year for roofline.’

Comment
‘Pick up a newspaper and there will be a story on climate change and its effects on the front page,’ says Tony Walsh, Managing Director of Freefoam, which sponsors this survey.
‘Our climate is changing at a much faster rate. Seasons have become less predictable and we can expect more storms, flooding and rising temperatures.

‘Rising temperatures greatly increase the impact and effect of the higher levels of Ultra Violet (UV) light, which is increasing by about 2% a year in the UK. We know that exposure to UV light from the sun damages skin and prolonged exposure increases the risks of skin cancer. But rising UV harms other things too, including building plastics such as roofline and cladding, affecting product performance and strength.

‘To date most roofline products have not been designed for the levels of UV light we are experiencing and there are questions about their longevity under these high UV levels.
Three to four parts per hundred of TiO2 used to be enough to protect products from UV. But now five parts is needed, which is what our products have.

‘It is important we avoid a repeat of the pinking crisis where the industry buried its heads in the sand thinking the discolouration problem would just disappear. Climate change is here and manufacturers need to act now. Homeowners appreciate PVC-UE roofline because of its perceived high performance, durability and low maintenance but there will be a lot of unhappy homeowners if products fail much earlier because of rising UV levels.
Do your products have enough protection?’

For a copy of the full report call Stephanie Bradfield on 01453 521 621 or visit http://www.rigby-research.co.uk

The Freefoam Roofline Report, a quarterly trends survey, is produced by Rigby Research, and sponsored by Freefoam Plastics Ltd.

The survey covers a representative sample of 100 roofline installers and stockists, including builders' merchants, of PVC-UE cellular foam products. Telephone interviews took place between the 4th and 15th May 2007 across a balanced spread of size of firm and geographical area.

For survey details or a copy of the full report call: Stephanie Bradfield on 01453 521 621 or visit http://www.rigby-research.co.uk

(c) copyright Rigby Research 2007

Crystal Negotiates Great New Deals for Customers

Crystal Direct, the large Hertfordshire based national trade fabricator has renegotiated major deals with many of its current suppliers and can now pass on the benefits to its customers.

Chairman, Martin Randall explains: ‘With several reports of glass, profile and roof price increases throughout the industry, it's great to be able to tell our customers that the cost of conservatories is coming down. We've not had to compromise on quality as all of our current suppliers remain the same, but we are now able to offer conservatories with a reduced price tag. These discounts will mean our customers will be able to make a better margin on their sales, which has to be good news.’

Tel: 01462 489900
Web: http://www.crystal-direct.co.uk

Everest Commercial: Building Relationships

Everest Commercial, window and door supplier to the UK's commercial market, builds working relationships with clients by integrating its operations within the clients own activities to ensure that best practice is maintained. Housing Associations, Educational institutions, new build developers and even small-scale commercial property managers have all benefited from their association with Everest Commercial.

It is through this committment that long-term contracts with major industry leaders have been secured. Rok, with whom Everest Commercial is working on the Decent Homes properties in East London, has had this benefit for the last 5 years whilst Land Securities has seen window and door maintenance and replacement contracts completed by Everest Commercial across the UK since 2004.

One of Everest Commercial's new projects is for McCann Homes at the prestigious Caldicott Lake, development in Milton Keynes. A new build project by McCann Homes - the eighth fastest growing privately owned company in Britain - this contract, which will see Everest Commercial install some 300 units, is worth around £1,000,000 for Everest. ‘We're very excited at this partnership with McCann Homes,’ said Bob Johnson, Everest Commercial's national business development manager. ‘This is just our second contract with McCann and we are glad to be able to offer our services on this important residential development.’

Everest Commercial will install a number of different products from its comprehensive portfolio including timber doors, aluminium & pvc-u windows, aluminium window wall & curtain walling, high performance patio door sets in aluminium and pvc-u. Significantly, the contract stipulates that the aluminium products must achieve U-values of at least 1.7. Everest Commercial is able to do that thanks to its experience in using glass/argon gas technologies.

The first phase of the works will begin in June 2007 and the company expects to be off site by December.

For more information on the products and services that Everest Commercial can provide for you, please visit http://www.everestcommercial.co.uk or contact 01603 264 962.

New Masterframe Steering Committee

To meet the needs of a growing network Masterframe Windows Ltd has established a steering committee to act as the voice of its Bygone Preferred Installer network (BPI). The committee is made up of four BPI's and Carol Slade, Masterframe's BPI Development Manager. They meet once a quarter and take ideas from the whole network for further development and discussion with Masterframe.

Ian Leigh, Owner of Banaglaze Window Systems says: ‘Masterframe doesn't just pay lip service to BPIs - it actually invests a lot of time making the Network succeed. Having such close contact with our supplier enables us to respond to our customers with a positive and personal approach and consequently provide them with a better service. This helps us achieve more sales.’

‘Being on the committee means I get first hand knowledge of the product and service development.’ Says Linda Foulkes, Owner of M & L Homestyle. ‘I can also provide a female perspective on pushing the brand forward. None of our other suppliers encourage input or feedback. This committee really sets Masterframe apart from other manufacturers.’

John Rose, Managing Director of Barnet Window Company expands: ‘Masterframe is the best in its field at manufacturing and developing vertical sliders. We can now perfect the selling techniques by sharing successful sales methods.’

Ian Gibson of Artisan Windows thinks the biggest benefit to being on the committee is gaining a better understanding of the industry: ‘This is symbiotic because Masterframe appreciates what installers and homeowners want.’

Tel: 01376 510410
Web: http://www.masterframe.co.uk

VIP Opening for New Volkswagen Van Centre in Sheffield

An all-new, state-of-the-art Volkswagen Van Centre was officially opened in Sheffield on Tuesday 15th May, by Hans-Heiner Tueting, Head of Sales worldwide at Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles.

With premises covering 1.3 acres and costing over £2.5 million, this is the largest and latest addition to Volkswagen's unique, nationwide network of dedicated van centres, and will be run by Gilder, one of the oldest Volkswagen retailers in the UK.

Head of Business at the Gilder Van Centre, Sheffield, David May said: 'The new Gilder Van Centre will provide the best one-stop shop for light commercial vehicle operators throughout South Yorkshire, North Derbyshire, North Nottinghamshire and Lincolnshire. Our customers can be assured of receiving a highly professional service in a modern and friendly environment.'

The new van centre has a large workshop with eight service bays fully equipped with the latest diagnostic and servicing systems, plus a spacious, modern showroom displaying Volkswagen's award-winning light commercial vehicle range including the Crafter, Transporter, Transporter Shuttle, Caddy and Caravelle MPV.

Other products and services available include fleet sales, parts and accessories, Class 4 and 7 MOT, van rental, specialist conversions and courtesy vehicles, plus Assured Used vans and a range of attractive finance options specifically designed for business users from Volkswagen Commercial Vehicle Finance.

The van centre currently employs 25 staff including highly qualified technicians, finance advisors and sales personnel, accumulating 175 years combined experience with Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles.

Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles Director, Robert Hazelwood, commented: 'This is an impressive addition to Volkswagen's growing network of dedicated and professional van centres.'

The new Gilder Van Centre is located on Europa Close, Europa Link, Sheffield,
S9 1XS and can be contacted on 0114 242 7900. For further details of Volkswagen Van Centres or range of vans, visit the Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles website at http://www.volkswagen-vans.co.uk.

Caption: (from left to right) Hans-Heiner Tueting, David May and Robert Hazelwood, plus the workshop

Glass Industry Conference 18th/19th October

The glass industry conference – sharing best practice explores the link between learning and high performance work organisations. Every two years for the last 25 years employers from all sectors of the glass industry come together to share their best practice. The speakers talk from direct experience having made a difference in their organisations linking systems to workplace learning.

Learning from previous conferences has led many businesses linking up to benchmark pioneering practices ensuring our industry stays one step ahead. This year’s conference will give you an opportunity to find out what’s really happening out there! The conference will be held at the Paramount Palace Hotel in Buxton, Derbyshire. The Conference full delegate rate is £360 with discounts for GTL member companies and for those who send to the conference 4 or more delegates. The conference includes a choice of four out of eight different sessions:

• Business growth training – Speaker John Spiby Managing Director of Pilkington AG Glass, Barnsley.
• Putting Knowledge to work – Speaker Dr Judy Harris University of London Institute of Education and Sheena Leimon from O-I.
• Benefits of learning through work – Speaker Peter Murray Managing Director of S Murray and Co Ltd., Surrey
• Making a difference – Speaker Bryan Yule Managing Director ACYule, Scotland
• Linking education and business – Mike Morris Director of Skills St Helens College.
• Winning a major manufacturing award – Sarah Lewis HR and HSE Manager Saint-Gobain Glass, Eggborough, Yorkshire.

There are two key note speakers at the plenary sessions:
• Making Skills Work – Speaker Terry Watts Chief Executive Proskills
• Practical learning, a route to success for young people – Speaker Andy Powell Chief Executive of Edge.

There will be a guest after dinner speaker who will talk about his amusing rail journey throughout India.

Don't Waste Your Chance to Win a National Recycling Award

It's time for companies, councils and charities to start penning their entries to the National Recycling Awards. The UK's green accolades, which reward best practice in the public and private sector, have been running for eight years and are widely recognised as the stamp of excellence in the recycling industry. New awards targeted specifically at SMEs and FTSE 250 companies have been introduced for 2007, as environmental issues move to the top of the business agenda.

Organised by Materials Recycling Week, the National Recycling Awards are open to any organisation, community group or company that is affected by recycling, plays an active part in the recycling process or is involved in the production chain of recycled products. Winners will be presented with their awards at a prestigious black-tie awards ceremony at the Telford International Centre on 14th November 2007, following the annual Local Authority Recycling Advisory Committee Conference.

Full entry guidelines can be found on http://www.nationalrecyclingawards.com and the closing date for entries is 24th August 2007.

The 2007 National Recycling Award categories are:
- Sims 250 Award - a new category targeted at FTSE 250 companies;
- Small Business Recycling Initiative - a new category targeted at SMEs (small
and medium enterprises);
- Veolia award for Recycling Officer of the Year;
- Valpak award for Best Waste Minimisation Project;
- Repic award for Electrical and Electronic Recycler of the Year;
- Viridor award for Recycling Target Success;
- Re-Gen award for Best Partnership Project for Recycling;
- Baylis award for Best Supermarket Recycler;
- Grosvenor award for Best Local Authority Initiative;
- mrw.co.uk Lifetime Achievement Award.

Jane Rayner, group editor of Materials Recycling Week and chair of the judging panel, said: 'Companies both large and small are increasingly adopting environmental practices to tackle the enormous challenges of climate change and waste. FTSE 250 companies have an integral role to play in leading towards a more sustainable society, as do the UK's four million SMEs which employ over 50 per cent of our workforce. This is why we have introduced two new categories this year - the Sims 250 Award and the Small Business Recycling Initiative.

'Meanwhile local authorities and other organisations continue to embrace change and are working hard to comply with new legislation. We would urge them all to enter the National Recycling Awards so that their achievements can be recognised.'

The industry recognition of winning a National Recycling Award is huge. Previous winners report that it has raised their profile, boosted staff morale and helped them to win new contracts.

Last year's winners included Bexley Council who won the Grosvenor Award for Best Local Authority Initiative in recognition of a recycling initiative which targeted the Sikh community at home, school and work. The council has since been invited to the House of Commons and has shared its experiences with other local authorities who have Muslim and Sikh communities.

Tesco Stores won the Best Retail Recycling Initiative (a category which has now been amended to the Baylis Award for Best Supermarket Recycler) for introducing state-of-the-art recycling machines which doubled recycling rates at sites where they were installed. Tesco senior buying manager Andrew Duckworth said there was 'a great sense of personal pride in winning the award' and it 'helped to send a positive message to our staff. It demonstrates that if you do the right thing, your work will be recognised.'

Hitech Equipment won The Valpak Award for Waste Minimisation Project of the Year for its waste treatment systems for problematic and hazardous wastes. Hitech head of sales and marketing, Gaynor Hutton, said: 'The amount of business we've had after winning the award has been really good. When you win a nationally recognised award, it gives you a lot more authority. We've had lots of positive feedback, lots of people got in touch and we've had lots of jobs out of it. It's been really good for business.'

The entries will be judged in September by a panel of industry professionals including Anna Shepard, Times columnist and 'Eco-Worrier'; Tim Danaher, editor of Retail Week; Lee Marshall, chair of the Local Authority Advisory Committee; Lindsay Millington, director general of the British Metals Recycling Association; Dr Liz Goodwin, chief executive of the Waste and Resources Action Programme (WRAP); Peter Jones, director of external relations and affairs, Biffa Waste Services; Dr Stuart McLanaghan, director of Associates in Industry Ecology and Garth Ward, retired from the Salvation Army, who won the 2005 Lifetime Achievement Award.

A list of nominees for the Lifetime Achievement Award will be posted on 31st August and the winners will be voted for on http://www.mrw.co.uk. For more information please visit http://www.nationalrecyclingawards.com

The Fire Service may Save your Life, but who Will Save Your Business?

'We managed to bring the fire under control but the building is completely destroyed,’ Bill Harrop, Fire Service, 'Major fire disrupts Manchester city centre' BBC News 30th April.

While fire officers concern is appropriately geared towards saving life, how can businesses pick up the pieces when a fire has ripped through their premises?

Government guidance on fire safety, Approved Document B (AD B), concentrates on the successful evacuation of burning buildings. But property protection lies largely outside the scope of regulation. This severely underestimates the true cost of fire. David Sugden, Chairman of The Passive Fire Protection Federation (PFPF) explains: ‘Passive fire protection measures (eg structural steel and fire compartmentation) help to control the spread of fire and maintain a building's structural stability. But business owners must maintain these measures to restrict fire spread. It is the owner's responsibility to save his business premises’.

David continues: ‘Fires in modern buildings can last for more than 24 hours. But the guidance offered by AD B only requires a structural resilience for one or two hours, which means the building could be completely destroyed! Up to 80% of businesses fail within 12 months of suffering a major catastrophe, such as fire, leaving many jobless.’

Tel: 01274 861338
Email: pfpf@associationhouse.org.uk
Web: http://www.pfpf.org

Darling Publishes Energy White Paper

Greater energy efficiency and a secure, low carbon energy mix for the long-term are at the centre of the Energy White Paper published by Trade and Industry Secretary Alistair Darling on 23rd May.

In a statement to the House of Commons, Trade and Industry Secretary Alistair Darling said:

‘We face two big challenges - climate change and maintaining stable and affordable energy supply in an increasingly unstable world. The Energy White Paper sets out a long term framework for action to address these challenges at home and abroad.

‘The UK is also becoming increasingly dependent on imported oil and gas at a time when global demand is accelerating. We will ensure that we make the most of our substantial remaining reserves in the North Sea, have a diverse range of sources for our imports and make further progress opening up markets in Europe and more widely.

‘With a third of our current electricity generation capacity due to close in the next 20 years there is also a pressing need for investment in new low carbon sources. We will work to ensure there is a market price for carbon into the long term by strengthening the EU Emissions Trading Scheme.

‘We will triple the amount of electricity we get from renewables by 2015. We want to lead in the development of carbon capture and storage. And we will consult on the significant role that new nuclear power stations could play in cutting emissions and diversifying our supply.

‘With the measures we are proposing across government on energy and the wider environment we can cut emissions by between 23-33 million tonnes of carbon by 2020 - the equivalent of removing all the emissions that we get from every car, van and lorry on Britain's roads today.

‘Every action set in train by this White Paper is important, and none will be easy. Nor can we become a low carbon economy in a single step. But if each of us acts we can start to deliver the low-carbon economy vital to our prosperity.’

Environment Secretary David Miliband said:

‘There's a real will among consumers and businesses to become more energy efficient, tackle climate change and move the UK towards a low-carbon economy. Government's role is to make it as easy as possible for them to do this. The Energy White Paper is part of that picture.

‘For consumers, it means extra help to improve the energy efficiency of even more homes because we are proposing that energy companies will have to double their efforts in promoting efficiency measures. This will in turn reduce emissions and fuel bills.

‘For businesses, we're giving the go-ahead to the world's first mandatory carbon trading scheme aimed at large commercial and public sector organisations, such as banks, supermarkets and central government departments. The new Carbon Reduction Commitment will be a cost-effective scheme that will save over a million tonnes of carbon per year by 2020, while enabling businesses to continue to show real leadership in tackling climate change.

‘And for the wider international community, action to tackle climate change in the UK is vital if we are to bring the US, China and India to the table to agree a new climate change deal. That's why this White Paper also sets out our international energy and climate change strategy and I hope it will resonate far beyond the shores of the UK.’

Foreign Secretary Margaret Beckett said:

‘To deliver energy security and accelerate the transition to a low-carbon economy requires urgent and ambitious action at home and abroad. As the Stern report indicated, we will need a massive step change in investment to achieve this necessary transition in the time available. In particular, given that major economies are going to continue to use coal, we need to make sure that the technologies that eliminate carbon emissions from coal use are developed and deployed as rapidly as possible. The UK cannot act alone, but it can take the lead in working towards this goal, and the Energy White Paper will help us do that.’

Announcements in the White Paper include:
* A requirement for new meters to come with a real-time display from 2008 and a short term offer of free displays from energy suppliers for households to 2010. In addition, the Government is encouraging the introduction of smart meters, also with displays, in the household sector and for small firms and expects everyone to have a smart meter within 10 years, whilst requiring smart meters for all but the smallest of businesses in the next five years.

* A consultation setting out how the energy efficiency of consumer electronics will need to improve is published.

* A consultation to double energy suppliers' current obligation to deliver energy efficiency measures to customers through a new 'Carbon Emission Reduction Target'.

* A cap and trade 'Carbon Reduction Commitment' for large commercial organisations such as banks, supermarkets and large local authorities.

* A 'Distributed Generation' Report is published including simplification of energy market and licensing arrangements for localised energy by the end of 2008 and clearer export tariffs from all six major energy suppliers for microgenerators to sell excess electricity.

* Legislation to band the Renewables Obligation to benefit offshore wind, wave, tidal and other emerging technologies. The cap on the amount of co-firing generation qualifying for support will be removed.

* Publication of a Biomass Strategy as well as a response to ' Creating Value from Renewable Materials' - a 2 year progress report on the Strategy for Non - Food Crops and Uses.

* Detail on the competition announced in the Budget to build the world's first end-to-end Carbon Capture and Storage plant, which will deliver at least 300MW capacity, 90% CO2 saving, and be up and running between 2011 and 2014.

* Legislation to allow the storage of natural gas under the seabed and unloading of Liquefied Natural Gas at sea.

* A three month deadline within which DTI will make consent decisions on large scale energy projects, pending more radical reforms set out in the Planning White Paper.

* A new energy market information and analysis service from this autumn.

* A Low Carbon Transport Innovation Strategy is published backed by funding of £20m for public procurement of low carbon vehicles, an up to £30m R&D 'Innovation Platform' and £5m additional funding for the Energy Technologies Institute.

In addition, published alongside the White Paper, are:
* A new consultation on the Government's preliminary view that it is in the public interest to give private sector energy companies the option of investing in new nuclear power stations. A 20 week public consultation running until 10th October started on 23rd May.

* A related consultation setting out the proposed 'Justification' and 'Strategic Siting Assessment' processes for new nuclear power. A 'pre-licensing' process has separately been started by the Health and Safety Executive. Work on all three of these facilitative actions will be on a contingent basis alongside the main nuclear consultation. We will review whether to continue with this work in the light of the main consultation responses.

The Planning White Paper, published on Monday 21st May, has separately set out proposals for a new consent regime for nationally significant energy infrastructure. This will help reduce costs, delays and uncertainties incurred by the private sector while also providing an appropriate opportunity for the public to challenge development.

Energy White Paper Receives Warm Response from Industry Bodies

Commenting on the publication of the Government's Energy White Paper are: Executive Chairman of the Home Builders Federation (HBF) Stewart Baseley, Richard Lambert, CBI Director-General, Imtiaz Farookhi, NHBC Chief Executive and RICS public policy officer, Nadia Nath-Varma.

Executive Chairman of the Home Builders Federation (HBF) Stewart Baseley says:

‘HBF is committed to working with the Government on its objective that all new homes should reach a zero carbon performance standard from 2016.

‘Realising this objective will depend critically on the availability and cost-effectiveness of suitable renewable and low-carbon energy supplies.

‘There are many relevant proposals in the White Paper relating to biomass, decentralised generation and the promotion of renewable energy. We will need to look carefully at whether between them these proposals provide a sufficient basis for the industry to plan successfully and with confidence for the future.

‘The acid test will be whether today's proposals support the home building industry by creating a national framework enabling it to deliver a sufficient number of zero-carbon homes by 2016 - so that we can tackle the housing supply crisis as well as being sustainable.'

• Also commenting on the recent Energy White Paper, Richard Lambert, CBI Director-General, said:

‘Only a combination of nuclear and renewable sources, alongside more efficient gas, coal and oil generation, can deliver the reliable energy supply we need whilst tackling carbon emissions.

‘With a third of UK power plants due to be replaced by 2025, time is against us if we are to avoid power shortages. The White Paper suggests the Government understands what is needed to avoid this energy crunch, and to make the UK system more secure and more environmentally sustainable. The real test now will be in delivering these proposals.

‘The Government has recognised the central importance of being more efficient in how we use energy, not just in businesses but also in the home. Streamlining the many programs to help businesses become more efficient in their energy use is vital to reduce confusion, though, and we need to see action on this.

‘While we need to look at the finer details, it is encouraging that the Government has heeded concerns over its emissions scheme for major service sector businesses. By raising the thresholds it will avoid capturing smaller companies, with the extra red tape that would have entailed.’

• NHBC, the independent authority on new home construction in the UK has welcomed the ambition laid out in the Government's White Paper on Energy to set a framework for UK industry to work together to cut carbon emissions.

Imtiaz Farookhi, NHBC Chief Executive, said: ‘Housebuilding has been tasked with delivering on the Government's zero carbon home target by 2016. The White Paper's aims to increase the levels of renewable energy sources will be central to achieving this aim, but only if greater emphasis is given to the issue of carbon offsetting.

‘The Planning White Paper this week goes hand in glove with the energy targets and we hope that by the 2016 zero carbon target date the impetus to speed up and streamline the planning process will deliver the necessary major energy infrastructure.

‘With housebuilding focusing on reducing carbon emissions and footprints, it is right that the energy industry also seek to match these aims by reducing reliance on imported energy sources which themselves present a threat to our long-term capability to deliver on zero carbon.’

• Commenting on the Government's announcement to allow energy companies to invest in nuclear power, RICS public policy officer, Nadia Nath-Varma said:

‘The Government's decision to allow energy companies to invest in nuclear power cannot happen in isolation. Any decision to build nuclear power stations must be part of a national infrastructure framework so that decisions can be integrated into a wider, holistic development plan. Only this will provide a foundation for creating sustainable communities. However, the Government must think beyond nuclear and act upon delivery.

Energy policy should be formulated around detail and commitment rather than on grand gestures. The Government must offer consumers incentives if they are to change how they live and work ‘

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