Highland Council has teamed up with SSE Renewables to help struggling households combat extreme fuel poverty over the next few months.
In midst of the cost-of-living crisis, the Scottish Government estimates that a third of Highland households are experiencing fuel poverty, compared to 24% nationally.
Figures also show that 22% of Highland households face extreme fuel poverty.
With energy costs only set to rise further, Highland Council anticipates a very tough few months ahead and is working to help those in need.
The council has been delivering the government’s Energy Efficient Scotland scheme for more than nine years and has been granted a further £1 million up until 2024.
Funding comes from the SSE Renewables Highland Sustainable Development Fund and will be exclusively used to help households in extreme fuel poverty.
The scheme aims for as many homes in the Highlands to become more energy-efficient using new methods.
These include the installation of an air source heat pump, cavity wall insulation, loft and external wall insulation and solar power.
‘Deliver efficiency savings to those households most in need’
Council leader Raymond Bremner said: “Highland is experiencing some of the highest levels of fuel poverty in Scotland.
“It is crucial that we encourage as many people as possible to sign up for the Energy Efficient Scotland – Area Based Scheme to benefit from grant funding to carry out energy efficiency improvements to their homes, improving comfort levels and attempt to minimise the impact of rising fuel costs.
“We are delighted to announce the arrival of grant support from SSE Renewables, which through the area-based scheme, will help us deliver efficiency savings to those households most in need.”
The scheme will also help towards Highland Council’s ambitious net-zero goals of low carbon emissions across the region by 2025.
Chairman of the Sustainable Development Fund, Lord Jack McConnell said: “The £1 million investment in improving energy efficiency for Highland households is the largest donation made by the fund.
“The funding will help many vulnerable residents benefit from warm, sustainable homes for years to come.”
Conversation