GGF Raises REAL Concerns with Government

The GGF recently received a reply to a letter sent in August to the office of Energy Minister Greg Barker regarding the decision to appoint Gemserv in the role of Green Deal Oversight Body in conjunction with REAL (Renewable Energy Assurance Ltd). 

In the GGF’s initial letter, the Federation raised some major concerns over the attitude of REAL towards the Replacement Window Industry. These concerns stem from several derogatory statements about the Glazing Industry on the REAL website.

Nigel Rees commented,” The misperception of GGF Members in the Replacement Window Industry as cowboys is something we have fought hard to address and will continue fighting because, they are unfounded, untrue and unfair. With Green Deal fast approaching and growing uncertainty of its impact, the last thing our industry needs are public attacks from organisations that are involved in promoting and administering Green Deal”

The GGF also asked for confirmation that the Replacement Window Industry and SMEs will have equal opportunities with all other industries within Green Deal and will not be excluded - emphasizing the point that for Green Deal to work, it has to be implemented fairly and equally in accordance with policy and legislation.

Department of Energy and Climate Change (DECC) Duty Minister Charles Hendry MP responded on behalf of Greg Barker and assured that the Green Deal will “operate in a fair and open way for consumers and businesses.”

Mr Hendry went on to underline the requirements that the Green Deal Oversight Body must meet and confirmed the Government would ensure Gemserv (in partnership with REAL) meet the criteria.   

Nigel Rees concluded, “We are pleased to get some assurances from DECC and that they have taken our points on board, however we will continue to monitor this situation closely to ensure our industry is not subject to unwarranted negative bias”