A DUNFERMLINE businessman has called for a VAT cut on energy efficiency measures in private homes to help the public play their part in Net Zero 2045.

CR Smith founder Gerard Eadie says home improvements and repairs should be treated the same as energy sources such as solar panels to encourage householders to make their properties greener.

“Scotland has set ambitious Net Zero targets, as has the UK, and if they are to be realised then the public has a huge part to play – but they need support," he said.

“Why are only energy producing measures, like solar panels and heat pumps, incentivised?

"By reducing VAT on home improvements aimed at preventing heat loss – including low-cost services to refurbish older double glazed windows and doors – homeowners would be encouraged to invest in sustainable upgrades which keep heat in."

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Mr Eadie said low-cost repairs and upgrades for windows and doors was an "underserved" market.

"Many homeowners simply do not know where to turn to make their windows and doors more energy efficient before they are at the point of replacing them altogether," he said.

“We often tell customers their windows don’t need to be replaced. People have no idea you can improve a window without fully replacing it."