One third of Scots in Fuel Poverty

REAP team members recently attended a training session run by Consumer Focus Scotland (CFS). REAP is running a CCF (Carbon Challenge Fund) funded project to help tackle fuel poverty in Moray by helping householders insulate and draught-proof their homes, as well as put other energy saving measures in place. The training, delivered by Andrew Faulk of the CFS was organised by Kirsty Conti, REAP Insulation Project Co-ordinator, to give staff a better understanding of how to help their clients get the best deal from their fuel suppliers.

“Andrew explained the background to the large energy price increases that our clients are dealing with just now”, said Kirsty. “Over a third of homes in Scotland are spending 10% of their income on fuel costs, while one in 10 Scots are in extreme fuel poverty, which is when people spend 20% of their income on fuel costs.”

“With many of the clients we’re seeing in Moray living in older homes that are difficult to insulate, or in a poor state of repair, that figure is set to rise as fuel prices go up. This training will help us to get the best deal for our clients, whether that will be a cheaper tariff, switching fuel suppliers, giving energy saving advice, or helping them access cheaper energy saving measures.”

Andrew also pointed out that switching energy suppliers is not just about getting the cheapest energy. Customer satisfaction and ease of dealing with companies over the phone can be very important, especially to elderly and vulnerable people. Many homes in Moray are also off the gas grid, so stocking up on heating oil when it costs less, making sure people are on the best electricity tariffs for electric storage heaters and looking at renewable energy options can be important.

With the winter approaching, it’s more important than ever to make sure you are not paying too much for your energy, and to take measures to save energy where you can. REAP’s team can help you find out how you can save: ring 01542 880200 or e-mail insulation@reapscotland.org.uk.  The team will also be organising events in Moray over the coming months so look out for activity in your area.

REAP staff attend training run by Consumer Focus Scotland