ECS applications are on the increase
12 Mar 2003
The UK Enhanced Capital Allowance Scheme (ECS), which allows companies to claim tax relief on the costs of energy-efficient equipment, is beginning to take off, according to the Carbon Trust, which manages the scheme.
Increasing numbers of manufacturers are applying for their products to be listed on the Energy Technology List, which details the equipment eligible for the scheme.
Since the Carbon Trust took on the scheme last August, there have been 376 applications to the ETL, compared with just 66 for the previous seven months. Of these applications, 176 were successful, putting a total of 1225 individual products onto the list. For example, the number of boilers on the ETL has doubled since last January, with 511 now listed.
The scheme is proving to be an efficient way for manufacturers to promote the energy-saving credentials of their products, the Trust adds. Companies can use the ETL symbol on their qualifying products, and also on their websites and promotional material. 'Further popularity of the scheme can be seen in the rise of direct enquiries to the website and helpline,' the Trust comments.
ECA manager Andy Lewry says that more improvements are on the way. 'We are seeing the results of the past year's promotion of the scheme,' he says, 'and have received useful feedback from manufacturers, trade associations and consumers, which will aid us in making additional improvements where needed.'
