Cost of energy-saving technologies set to fall

The cost of environmentally-friendly technologies that could cut energy bills may finally be on the way down, according to manufacturers.

Solar hot water manufacturer Velux claims prices for its units could drop 20% in the next 18 months.

Velux sustainability boss Kevin Brennan said: "With the increased uptake of key eco-technologies, we should have begun to see prices fall. However, with the majority of housebuilders stalling on new sites, this is looking unlikely over the short-term.

"There is currently no economy of scale in manufacturing, distribution or installation, but once we achieve these things it will bring the price down significantly."

Jeremy Beloff, marketing consultant for heat pump manufacturer Calorex, said: "With the ever increasing cost of fossil fuels, people are becoming aware of the potential for these products, and we are seeing massive growth."

A recent report by the Department of Communities and Local Government found the price of environmentally friendly homes was 50% higher than traditional properties.

The report predicted the cost of a standard home measuring 102m2 internally would rise from £91,410 to £138,943 if it was built to level six of the Code for Sustainable Homes.