Breaking News from energyhelpline.com: the gas & electricity switching service that compares all energy suppliers: Cheap energy touted through Warm Front scheme - 30/04/2009

The government has launched a new Warm Front programme aimed at cutting the cost of energy bills for people in fuel poverty.

Ministers have unveiled the latest stage in the scheme, which will provide grants for people on qualifying disability or income related benefits to install insulation or energy efficient heating in their homes.

Households connected to the gas grid are now eligible for grants of up to £3,500, the government has announced, up from the previous £2,700, while those not connected to the grid are able to apply for funding of up to £6,000.

"These increases will take effect immediately, benefitting all new customers, and will also apply to Warm Front clients who have received approval for funding but are still waiting for the work to start," said energy and climate change minister Joan Ruddock.

She continued: "This means more people will be able to go ahead with improvements to their home without having to worry about funding it themselves."

Meanwhile, the Scottish Executive has sought to boost access to funding for small green energy schemes that are designed to increase access to cheap energy.

The Scottish government has announced grants of up to £150,000 will now be available.

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