Local resident Anne Burns told MSP Ben Macpherson how the Warmer Homes Scotland scheme has helped her become warmer and more comfortable in her home through the installation of energy efficiency measures.
Anne told the MSP that the new, energy efficient gas boiler she received via the Scottish Government’s national energy saving programme has eased her worries about how to affordably heat her home throughout the winter months.
Almost 150 other households in Mr Macpherson’s constituency of Edinburgh Northern and Leith have benefitted from the scheme’s help since it was launched in 2015, each of them saving around £300 per year on their energy bills. The MSP was able to hear first-hand about the difference that it can make.
Anne said, “The help that I have received under Warmer Homes Scotland has been life changing. I no longer worry about the winter coming as I know my home will be warmer and I will be saving money on my bills too.”
The £224million Warmer Homes Scotland scheme provides a step-by-step service to help make homes warmer and more comfortable. Assistance can include upgrading windows or fitting new radiators, installing new and efficient boilers or even working with partners to install gas mains to make heating homes in hard to reach areas more affordable. All work is carried out by registered and accredited local sub-contractors, who work to rigorous quality standards across the country.
Ben Macpherson MSP said: “It was great to meet Anne and to hear first-hand about the positive impact that the Warmer Homes Scotland scheme has made for her. With the cold weather already upon us, the recently installed energy efficiency measures will help her to stay warm and more comfortable in her home.
“I would encourage others to check if they are eligible to receive help under the scheme, as improvements could make a significant difference this winter and for years to come.”
Fuel poverty remains at the forefront of the Scottish Government’s agenda having recently released a route map, Energy Efficient Scotland, which outlines the path the Government wishes to take to make Scottish homes more efficient by 2040. The Fuel Poverty (Target, Definition and Strategy) (Scotland) Bill has also recently been introduced, which makes a statutory provision to help those who are living in fuel poverty.
Ross Armstrong, Warmworks’ Managing Director said: “The most valuable difference that Warmer Homes Scotland can make is to give people the comfort and peace of mind that they can afford to stay warm in their own home.
“It’s always good to see the impact of our work and that we’ve been able to change someone’s life for the better. The stories of our customers and the lives that the scheme has touched are always the most powerful testament to its success.”
Ben Macpherson MSP is holding a Winter Warmth Constituent Advice Surgery at McDonald Road Library this Friday (12th October), Nelson Hall, McDonald Road Library, EH7 4LU. The event is from 1-2.30pm and all are welcome. No appointment necessary.
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