WIREDGOV

People across Scotland are being urged to seek assistance to improve the energy efficiency of their homes, helping to reduce household energy bills.

Housing and Welfare Minister Margaret Burgess yesterday outlined that households can apply for financial assistance from the Scottish Government of up to £1,200 to pay for energy improvement measures such as cavity and loft insulation, double glazing, a new boiler or draft proofing.

Getting loft insulation can reduce energy bills by up to £175 per year, while replacing single-glazed windows with double glazed ones could save the average home around £165 per year.

And taking simple steps to draught proof can cut £55 per year off the average property’s energy bill, while getting a new, energy efficient boiler could save a three bedroom home owner up to £300 annually.

Individuals can find out more and apply for a Green Homes Cashback voucher by visiting www.energysavingtrust.org.uk/scotland or telephoning the Scottish Government’s Home Energy Scotland hotline -free - on 0800 512 012.

Mrs Burgess said:

“It is my belief that everyone in Scotland should live in a warm and safe home that doesn’t cost the earth to heat.  In these current economic times, it is more important than ever that people take advantage of money saving opportunities like these when they can.

"Rising energy bills are a huge concern for this government, and fuel poverty is an absolute scandal in a country like Scotland. 

“There is a wide range of financial support and offers available to Scottish households to support them when it comes to making the decision that is right for them. 

“As well as perhaps being eligible for  up to £400 towards the cost of a new boiler, householders could access up to £500  towards the cost of insulation measures, and up to £300 towards other measures such as double glazing or draft proofing if recommended as part of a Green Deal assessment.

“I would urge anyone who would like to reduce their energy bills to contact the Hotline as soon as possible to find out about how to get a Green Deal assessment and to find out about the offers available to them.”