19 August 2010
Deputy Prime Minister Nick Clegg has pledged action not words on climate change as he highlighted a scheme to improve insulation in homes and offices during a speech in the North East.
Mr Clegg said the Green Deal could save millions of households up to £550 a year by providing them with upfront finance for energy-saving measures.
He also called for the region to become a "hub" for the new green economy, generating private-sector growth to correct the "over-dependence on the public sector".
The Deputy PM said:
All politicians have warm words on the environment, and all governments talk about leading the shift to a new green economy.
"This government is going to do things differently. We won't try and dazzle you with green gimmicks. We want to impress you by quietly getting on with the job."
He said the Green Deal could benefit up to 14 million homes, with the most inefficient saving around £550 a year, and the outlay recouped through energy bills. Details of the plans will be set out in legislation later this year.
