Scottish government to extend Energy Assistance Package - 05/10/2011

Individuals in Scotland who look to compare energy suppliers in order to find cheap gas may be pleased to hear of extra help being offered by the government.

New regulations set out in the country's Parliament will see eligibility for the Energy Assistance Package extended to those who are currently receiving Carers' Allowance.

The help may consist of funding for a range of energy efficiency measures, including insulation, a replacement boiler and draughtproofing.

Cabinet secretary for Infrastructure and Capital Investment Alex Neil stated: "As we head into winter, more and more people will find it a challenge to adequately heat their homes."

Around 7,000 carers will be able to cut their heating bills and boost their energy efficiency thanks to the new legislation, he added.

The move was welcomed by Norman Kerr, director of fuel poverty at Energy Action Scotland, who said it is important that as many vulnerable people as possible can benefit from the scheme.

Recently, householders in the Scottish Borders learned they may be eligible to apply for a share of an extra £380,000 of funding made available by the Scottish Borders Council to help cut fuel poverty in the area.

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