WALES: Greg Barker, Minister of State for Energy & Climate Change paid a visit to Rockwool’s Pencoed manufacturing plant to see for himself how British industry is fareing and to gain greater understanding of the environmental and energy-saving qualities of the product.

Rockwool, the Bridgend-based manufacturer of stonewool insulation, hosted the visit by Mr Barker and the MP got involved with discussing the role the company can have in helping the Government deliver the Green Deal.

"It's great to see Rockwool gearing up for the launch of the Green Deal, which has the potential to improve millions of homes,” said Mr Barker. “The Green Deal will totally reinvigorate energy-efficiency demand in this country and upgrade the nation's draughty homes and office buildings no matter whether they are owned or rented at no upfront cost. Insulation is one of the most effective ways of making homes warmer and cheaper to run."

Thomas Heldgaard, Rockwool UK’s managing director, stated: "We are delighted that the Minister visited our plant to see the work our team do in developing insulation systems and solutions to support the Green Deal's ambitions, and providing sustainable jobs and economic growth within South Wales.

"Rockwool insulation plays a critical role in helping households reduce energy consumption and boost home energy efficiency. The Government's Green Deal is a significant opportunity for property owners and tenants in the UK to improve their homes, making them more energy efficient places to live and our team in Pencoed are delighted to play a role in helping to achieve these objectives."

Rockwool is a leading manufacturer of stone wool insulation which gives thermal, fire and acoustic protection in homes.The firm currently employs over 450 people at its Pencoed plant and produces more than 100 000 tonnes of Rockwool insulation each year.