David Bowen, marketing executive with Newey & Eyre, was surprised by the findings: "Clearly, information about the impact of the Climate Change Levy is not reaching the people who will be most affected by its introduction and this huge knowledge gap will cause confusion when customers look to their electrical contractors for advice."
Four fuels are being taxed under the Levy. Only 8% of respondents in the survey were able to name the four as electricity, gas, solid fuel and liquid petroleum gas.
Another area of confusion was over the sectors affected by the Levy. Just 13% could correctly state that it will apply to industrial, commercial, agricultural and public sector energy users. Some 6% of respondents thought that domestic users were affected.
Electrical contractors are well placed to advise customers on energy-saving measures that could reduce the level of tax paid via the Levy. The Government assists investment in low energy equipment via Enhanced Capital Allowances.
Source
Electrical and Mechanical Contractor