An energy efficiency scheme should be in place by the end of this year, according to the Minister in charge of Environment, Food and Agriculture.

Geoffrey Boot MHK said government ’agencies’ were working together to produce a plan in line with the Isle of Man’s Sustainable Island policy.

Mr Boot was answering a Tynwald question from Ramsey member Lawrie Hooper who wanted to know what consideration was being given to introducing energy efficiency standards for new properties.

Mr Boot said last July action plans were approved identifying the need to improve buildings’ energy efficiency. Incentives were being considered for installing biomass boilers and a competition to design near zero emission houses was planned.