UK: "The underpinning framework for the Green Deal and Energy Company Obligation (ECO) passed another milestone on Monday, as the secondary legislation was approved by the House of Lords - keeping us on track to Framework completion by October," said the Department for Energy and Climate Change (DECC) yesterday.

"In our consultation response, on 11 June, we confirmed Government's intention to introduce the Green Deal through supporting a responsible and controlled approach with full national systems testing. This is to ensure the market has the opportunity to build steadily.

"From 8 August the Green Deal Oversight and Registration Body will begin registering assessors, providers and installers. Ahead of the opening of the Register of Green Deal Participants, we will publish the Green Deal Provider Authorisation Guidance – essential reading for potential Green Deal providers on what they need to do to become established and authorised in that role.

"From October authorised and accredited assessors will be able to begin operating so consumers will be ready to complete a Green Deal Plan at the end of January, when the relevant parts of the framework regulations come into effect.

""Green Deal authorised installers will be able to complete work for consumers prior to the end of January if paid for upfront or wholly supported by the Energy Company Obligation. We expect the number of Green Deal offers available to build from there as more providers enter the market.

Also in October ECO begins, enabling energy companies and others to start delivering energy efficiency and heating measures."