News from RECC

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Consumer Code for household micro generation clears first OFT hurdle

Posted: 1 November, 2007. Written by Virginia

The Office of Fair Trading (OFT) confirmed in November that the REAL Assurance Scheme consumer code had completed the first of two stages leading to full approval.

The Code sets out the high standards of service that consumers are entitled to expect from a reliable company. It covers providing estimates and quotations, seeking permission and approval and agreeing the contract. It also covers providing guarantees, safeguarding deposits, providing after-sales service and resolving problems that may occur. In his letter John Fingleton, OFT Chief Executive, congratulated the REA on its achievement in reaching this stage. He explained: 'the second stage of the process is designed to ensure that the Code really delivers what it promises'. Virginia Graham, REAL Assurance Scheme Chief Executive welcomed the OFT's announcement: 'This is a really significant step to protect consumers who want to reduce their carbon emissions by installing micro generation in their homes.' She added: 'Companies signing up to the REAL Code are sending a powerful signal that cowboys have no place in this industry.'

The Code applies whether consumers are buying or leasing solar water heating panels, solar photovoltaic panels, small-scale wind turbines, biomass boilers, ground-source heat pumps or any other renewable or low carbon microgeneration technology.

Pictured: Philip Wolfe, Virginia Graham and Gill Owen celebrate confirmation of Stage One Completion from the OFT