A high-profile source has highlighted how important it is to the construction industry to have green innovation targets, which could in turn prompt interest in renewable energy courses.

Speaking at Grand Designs Live in London, television presenter, designer and writer Kevin McCloud suggested the sector could be pushed forward if the government would introduce legislation for the market to react to.

He pointed out how much progress is being made in the photovoltaic and wind turbine industries, which require professionals who have completed renewable energy courses.

Mr McCloud noted that businesses dislike "vagueness", adding: "This government isn't strong on the detail on targets - it's strong on big policy, but what industry really needs are targets."

In his opinion, there are two things that motivate people to get things done - war and legislation.

These comments follow a report by the Federation of Master Builders showing that 44 per cent of its members believe that consumers are unlikely to respond enthusiastically to the upcoming Green Deal.

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