Minister visits Oban home energy project
Energy minister Michael Matheson has been on a fact-finding mission in Oban.
The minister was visiting Argyll Community Housing Association (ACHA) which is spending just over £5.7 million on insulating external walls to make its flats more thermal-efficient.
Almost 600 households across Oban and Lorn will benefit once the project is complete, Mr Matheson was told.
ACHA secured more than £2.7m in Home Energy Efficiency Programmes for Scotland funding through Argyll & Bute Council and the Scottish Government, with ACHA contributing over £3m from its own resources.
Chief Executive of ACHA Alastair MacGregor said the project has delivered external wall insulation at zero cost to all owners. He added: ‘This is one of the best projects ACHA has ever been involved in. Not only does it improve thermal efficiency but it reduces fuel costs and improves the aesthetic appearance of the buildings. Could I thank everyone from ACHA, Argyll and Bute Council, the Scottish Government and our contractor, OVO Energy Solutions, for their hard work in delivering this project. It was good to be able to show the cabinet minister the benefits of all of us working together.’
Argyll and Bute Council leader Robin Currie said: ‘These grants are a great opportunity for people to make their homes warmer and in turn save money on energy costs.
‘This project will provide long-lasting benefits, helping to reduce fuel poverty and carbon emission.’
Mr Matheson said: ‘On the day we committed to a further £64m for area-based scheme projects, I was delighted to visit Oban and see for myself how this funding has helped local residents reduce bills and make their homes warmer.’
Head of OVO Energy Solutions Neil Donald said: ‘Many households have been able to cut their bills by more than 50 per cent. We look forward to continuing our work with ACHA to create warmer, healthier homes in more local areas and progress the journey to zero carbon living.’