Former Labour leader Ed Miliband, now the shadow energy secretary, says the green homes grant scheme is in chaos.

Media reports in recent days say the high profile £2 billion scheme has descended into confusion with some renewable energy installers owed tens of thousands of pounds, while landlords and other property owners are waiting up to four months to have low carbon heating systems fitted. 

Now Ed Miliband says: “This scheme has descended into an absolute fiasco. The government needs to urgently sort out this mess and crucially make sure small businesses are paid what they are owed.

“Far from creating green jobs, the government’s approach means workers in the renewable energy industry are actually being let go – worsening the economic crisis.

“This is yet another example of ministers cutting corners and outsourcing to companies that just aren’t up to the task. They must come clean about the details of this contract so taxpayers know exactly what their money has been spent on.  

“Instead of a piecemeal, short-term, fragmented approach, we need a proper, long-term, comprehensive plan to transform our housing stock.”

Landlords can claim vouchers of up to £5,000 to pay for two-thirds of the work to replace fossil fuel heat systems with renewable energy appliances.

Installers have to be registered with Trust Mark which charges the installers £30 plus VAT to log each job.

The scheme was to end in March this year, but has been extended until March 2022 because of delays.