Eco-rebates scheme may be extended to trade fair

The Ministry of Finance said today that the Energy Efficient Appliances Rebate may be extended to cover the trade fair before it is replaced by another scheme.

It pointed out in a statement this afternoon that the scheme was to be wound down at the end of this month because it had exceeded its one-year duration.

The measure was announced in the budget 2007 to encourage consumers, importers and retailers to opt for products that are environmentally friendly.

"By 2007, the government had already noticed an evident change in pattern towards environmentally friendly purchasing trends.

"As declared in the budget speech for 2008, a new scheme targeting environmentally friendly products is to be introduced this year through EU co-financing to further enhance the changes witnessed in consumer patterns in the field of energy conservation," the ministry said.

"However, since it was not practical to introduce a new energy efficiency scheme, which is not necessarily limited or related to the same appliances, through EU funding in early 2008, Government voted a further €500,000 to extend the original energy efficient appliances rebate scheme. This vote has been exhausted, with €580,000 actually being paid, and consequently this led to its termination.

"However the government is considering extending the scheme until the trade fair in order to allow sufficient time for a new scheme to be introduced."

The ministry said the environment remained one of the government’s top priorities and sustainable energy will be one of the specific issues that will be dealt with through the pre-budget consultations.