Cash handouts for insulation, glazing and new boilers

HOMEOWNERS across London are to be offered subsidies and other incentives to cut greenhouse gas emissions under plans to be unveiled by Ken Livingstone.

The Mayor will announce a series of initiatives throughout the year for reducing energy use as part of a green campaign which he says will be his priority for 2007. Among the options are handouts to replace inefficient boilers or install loft insulation or double glazing.

The schemes are intended to cut London's carbon emissions by two million tonnes this year and to pave the way for further reductions. Announcing his campaign, Mr Livingstone said Londoners could register for the incentives by texting "CO2" and their name, house number and postcode to the number He added: "Climate change is our greatest global challenge and I will be announcing a series of measures in 2007 to reduce our carbon emissions. An important part of this will 62967.

be for us all to cut our emissions at home, such as by switching to energy-efficient lightbulbs, not leaving appliances on standby and using the car less. All it will take is for every Londoner to cut their emissions by five per cent and not only will they save money on fuel bills but London could cut its carbon pollution by a massive two million tonnes in 2007.

"If we are going to protect future generations from this threat, then 2007 has to be the year in which climate change becomes everyone's priority."

Advertisements promoting the Mayor's green message were displayed on screens in Trafalgar Square and Parliament Square during the New Year celebrations.

Details of the incentive schemes, including who will be eligible and how to qualify, are to be announced along with improved information on simple steps to take to cut emissions.