WORCESTER: npower's hometeam reported a has seen a six-fold increase in customers enquiring about replacement or new boilers since the announcement of the Government's boiler scrappage scheme.

Six times more appointments were booked through npower hometeam on the first day of the Government scheme, compared to the previous day. The company, which installs, services and repairs boilers, has drafted in extra staff to meet the demand while existing staff are working overtime.

In December, npower became the first energy supplier to launch its own boiler boiler scrappage scheme, but with the Government announcement

consumers could now be eligible to receive as much as £800 towards the cost of a new gas boiler installation as well as saving nearly £235 off an annual gas bill, when replacing one that is G-rated. This week has seen some of its competitors follow npower's example.

Kevin Miles, chief executive officer of npower retail, said: "As we enter the coldest winter for 30 years, we are finding that the boiler scrappage scheme is striking a chord with our customers. With the Heating & Hot Water Industry Council estimating the average cost of a boiler installation to be around £2500, £800 is a significant discount.