Stevenson welcomes £74m boost for energy efficiency

Stewart Stevenson MSP

Stewart Stevenson, the SNP MSP for Banffshire and Buchan Coast, has welcomed news that the Scottish Government has made £74million available for home improvements that increase energy efficiency.

The Scottish Government launched the Green Homes Cashback scheme last November, giving householders cash back towards the cost of maximizing energy efficiency.

Local authorities and registered social landlords can apply for a grant of up to £1million for homes under their care, and up to £1200 per home.

Deputy First Minister, Nicola Sturgeon, launched the campaign highlighting the benefits available to people in Scotland through the Scottish Government’s Home Energy Scotland hotline 0808 808 2282 which offers free impartial energy advice and support.

A recent survey has shown that 75% of people in Scotland are worried about their energy bills while 70 per cent of Scottish bill-payers said last winter’s energy bills had a negative impact on their disposable incomes.

Mr Stevenson said:  “Too many people in Scotland are simply unaware of the energy initiatives to which they are entitled. The SNP is committed to educating people on the options available to them in the struggle against fuel poverty.

“With £74million set aside to help Scottish people reduce their fuel bills, and the cooperation between the Scottish Government and groups such as the Citizens Advice Scotland, there is no reason why we cannot reach our goal of eradicating fuel poverty by 2016

“No one should be worried about their energy bills in a country as rich in energy as ours.”

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