Householders across England will be asked their views on how the UK can reduce its carbon emissions through better energy efficiency and low-carbon heating, as part of the 'Big Energy Shift' citizens' forums.

The first of the forums was launched on Saturday by Energy and Climate Change Minister Joan Ruddock, and will be followed by similar events in Exeter and Cockfield, Co Durham, later in the month.

Ms Ruddock said: "The Government has just launched its long-term Heat and Energy Saving strategy for consultation, setting out proposals for reducing household carbon emissions to almost zero by 2050.

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"To achieve this, we need to move beyond simple measures such as loft insulation, and start offering whole house energy-makeovers - looking at more radical measures such as solid wall insulation, solar heating, ground or air-source heat pumps, or access to a district heating scheme.

"We've started to talk with organisations and communities about how we can achieve this - but we want to hear from householders as well. They are the ones who will benefit from our plans and it's vital we engage with residents, explain our strategy and the technologies involved, and receive their views."

The Big Energy Shift will finish with an event in London with Government and other organisations, with the information and opinions gathered during the process forming part of the overall consultation. The final Heat and Energy Saving Strategy is due to be published later this year.

(CD/JM)