Energy scheme warmly praised

Neil Gray has praised the impact of a national scheme which has helped more than 380 of his constituents to save money on their energy bills during the past six years.

The Airdrie MSP highlighted figures revealed in the annual report of fuel poverty service Warmer Homes Scotland, showing that the local residents had saved an average of £261.

Energy improvements are identified through the programme, with installations such as new central heating systems and renewable technologies including air source heat pumps then being arranged with the aim of making properties warmer and more affordable to heat.

Mr Gray said:“i’m delighted to know that the scheme has helped many of my constituents save money on their fuel bills and would encourage everyone to check if they are eligible to receive help under the scheme.

“The improvements it offers could make a real difference this winter and in the years to come.”

With the report also noting Warmer Homes’wider benefits including positive outcomes for everyone from householders to the NHS and Scottish Government, he added:“i’m pleased the scheme has supported so many people to be more comfortable in their homes and it’s great to learn about positive benefits on health, wellbeing and day-to-day living.”

The scheme is run by Warmworks Scotland and is a joint venture between the Energy Saving Trust, Everwarm and Changeworks, helping households who are struggling with the cost of high energy bills.

More information on the programme is available by contacting Home Energy Scotland free on 0808 808 2282, whose advisers will then refer eligible customers to the Warmer Homes scheme.

Recent research by campaigners Energy Action Scotland revealed that more than one in five Lanarkshire residents are living in fuel poverty – spending more than 10 per cent of their net income on energy costs.

The figure is 20 per cent for North Lanarkshire and 22 per cent for South Lanarkshire. And following October’s increase to electricity and gas bills, consumers are being warned of another price cap rise in April.

Energy Action Scotland say: “Continued volatility in wholesale energy markets could push average energy bills up by more than £700 to £2000 a year.”

Chief executive Frazer Scott added:“this problem is only likely to get worse – we estimate that as prices rocket, over 100,000 more households will seriously struggle to heat their homes.”