The Shetland Islands Council Energy Efficiency Team has been awarded £200,000 to deliver both top-up grant funding for energy efficiency works and funding for new windows and doors which are not currently covered, as a primary measure, under the Area Based-Scheme (ABS). Both will target fuel poor and extreme fuel poor households.
Local authorities are awarded ABS funding from the Scottish Government to develop and deliver energy efficiency programmes to households in fuel poverty. Where the grant doesn’t cover the cost of all works either the number of measures are reduced or the owner pays the balance. The top-up funding will be used where there is a shortfall to ensure whole house, fabric first measures can be carried out where the occupier is unable to fund their contribution. New doors and windows reduce heat loss and infiltration particularly in exposed island areas, and where suitable, can be primary measures delivered by this project.
Carl Symons, Executive Manager, Environment and Estate Operations said, “With Shetland’s cold and windy weather we regularly receive requests for help with new windows and doors. This additional energy efficiency funding is welcome and will provide further help to households living in fuel poverty.”
Further awards for projects which meet the strategic priorities of the fund are Hjaltland Housing Association who have received £10,000 towards training costs for retrofit energy efficiency works and £32,770 for the Royal Voluntary Service for their 3-year wheelchair accessible vehicle with driver project.
Eleanor Gear, Fund Manager said: “It has been great to see such a positive start to the main funding, particularly on projects which focus on energy efficiency measures. SCBF recognise that long-term strategic projects do not happen overnight and early engagement with the Shetland community, through its community groups, organisations and businesses is crucial to the success of the fund. SCBF are not looking to initiate strategic projects which tackle the priorities from the consultation. We know that local organisations involved in the delivery of projects are best placed to plan, develop and deliver them.”
