Scots urged to take up energy advice for free

lightbulbPeople across Scotland are being urged to take advantage of a new offer to seek assistance to improve the energy efficiency of their homes, helping to reduce household energy bills.   

Energy Minister Fergus Ewing today announced that from July 1, households can apply for a free Green Deal assessment which, once completed will provide advice on how homes can be made greener and more energy efficient and qualify households for a Green Homes Cashback voucher.

Getting loft insulation, for example, 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.

Mr Ewing (pictured below) 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.

“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.  And from today, households can apply for a voucher for a free home energy assessment.

“I would urge anyone who would like to reduce their energy bills to contact the Scottish Government’s Home Energy Scotland hotline line 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.”

Fergus Ewing

More information on the Green Deal assessment and on how to apply  for a Green Homes Cashback voucher can be found at  www.energysavingtrust.org.uk/scotland or by telephoning the Scottish Government’s Home Energy Scotland hotline -free – on 0808 808 2282