Energy action worth taking - Scott (Aberdeen South & North Kincardine Liberal Democrats)

Aberdeen South & North Kincardine Liberal Democrats <info@aberdeensouthlibdems.org.uk>

Energy action worth taking - Scott

January 30, 2009 9:21 PM
Originally published by Scottish Liberal Democrats

Shetland MSP, Tavish Scott, is urging people worried about their energy bills and about keeping warm enough this winter to look at the advice on offer from Energy Action Scotland, the charity working for warm, dry homes.

Tavish Scott said, "Energy bills make up a major part of the average domestic budget, but for those on low incomes, such as the elderly who need to keep their home warm, paying the bill for their electricity, heating oil or district heating is always a worry.Tavish Scott MSP

"That is why it is worth looking at the Energy Action Scotland advice. This is that people should avoid wasting energy; that they should make sure that they get all the benefits and tax credits they are entitled to get; and that they should make sure that they are getting the best deal from their energy supplier.

"This is sound advice wherever you live, but is particularly important in Shetland where winter lasts longer than in the south and where the climate poses a real challenge to householders. So the Energy Action Scotland advice is worth checking out."

In its winter warmth campaign, Energy Action Scotland says:

Be Energy Efficient

Make sure your home is as energy efficient as possible. Get advice about easy and inexpensive ways you can save energy, for example by draught proofing or by using appliances in a more economical way. You can also find out about making your home or your heating system more energy efficient, perhaps with cavity wall insulation or a heat pump. Contact the Energy Saving Scotland advice centre on freephone 0800 512 012.

Check Benefits or Tax Credit Entitlement

Many people don't realise they can increase their income by claiming the benefits or tax credit they are entitled to get. The extra income can be very helpful when the winter energy bills come in. Contact your local Citizens Advice Bureau for advice.

Get the Best Energy Deal

Find out if you can get a better deal from your electricity company. Sometimes you can save money by switching to a different tariff or selecting a different way to pay your bills. Some companies also offer special services, like social tariffs, for certain groups of people. Check out what's available for your needs via the Home Heat Helpline on freephone 0800 33 66 99.