But Mr Scott said the timber window industry needed to step up its efforts to secure product energy ratings, which can be achieved through the British Fenestration Rating Council (BFRC) Window Energy Rating scheme.

Home energy ratings which will form part of Home Information Packs being introduced in 2007, are to become compulsory for every home bought and sold in England.

“There is an opportunity for any materials and the key is having good products and proving them,” said Mr Scott. “The most common route is to get a thermal simulation by going though the energy rating scheme.”

“The plastic window manufacturers are the ones making the effort and achieving ratings. My hope is that timber window makers respond quickly to make sure that they don’t lose out.”

&#8220Plastic window manufacturers are the ones making the effort and achieving ratings. My hope is that timber window makers respond quickly to make sure that they don’t lose out”

TRADA, an accredited certifer for the BFRC scheme, has noticed growing demand for windows which can demonstrate their energy performance.

The Glass and Glazing Federation, which runs the BFRC Window Energy Rating scheme, said the government’s stance on home energy ratings meant the BFRC scheme was destined to be one of the success stories of the glazing industry.

Meanwhile, exhibition organisers are also recognising the potential of home energy ratings.

Centaur, which is launching Eco Homes as a stand-alone event alongside its successful National Homebuilding & Renovating Show at Birmingham NEC, said the government initiative will further increasing the public’s thirst for information on eco products and services.