Householders in Dundee will benefit from energy bills reduced to up to £400 a year and free energy efficiency measures over the next two years, thanks to local energy efficiency and environmental charity Scarf. The charity, with offices in Dundee and Aberdeen, is expanding its home energy advice project with the support of gas distribution network SGN.
The primary objective of this new partnership is to help householders better understand and manage their energy use, with the goal of reducing energy bills, allowing people to feel safe and warm in their homes.
Dundee is currently facing one of the highest levels of fuel poverty in Scotland, which has severe adverse effects on physical and mental health. In partnership with SGN, Scarf aims to address these challenges by offering hands-on support for individuals struggling with their fuel bills. A specific focus will be placed on supporting families with young children and those living in deprived areas.
Scarf is dedicated to complementing Dundee City Council’s fuel poverty strategy and contributing to a more sustainable future, and so will provide a support and advocacy service, ensuring that each household receives personalised assistance. Through home visits, Scarf’s advisors will offer energy efficiency advice tailored to an individual’s circumstances. This support can include guidance on best energy efficiency practices, advice on choosing energy tariffs, support with energy debt and education on the use of carbon monoxide alarms. The ability to provide low-cost energy efficiency measures, such as LED light bulbs and radiator foils, will ensure practical improvements take place, further reducing energy use in households.
Scarf advisors will also assist householders with referrals into local and national energy improvement programmes, such as Home Energy Scotland’s Warmer Homes Scotland or the Energy Company Obligation programme, which will bring health, environmental, and energy efficiency benefits to the home.
Bolstering this, Scarf has ongoing partnerships with organisations and energy efficiency programs in the Dundee area, such as Home Energy Scotland, Dundee Citizens Advice Bureau, and various food banks and employment services. This collaborative effort aims to educate and support householders out of fuel poverty, complementing the personalised assistance provided through Scarf’s home energy advice project.
David Mackay, co-CEO at Scarf, commented: “Dundee residents have been hit extremely hard through the pandemic followed by the cost-of-living crisis which has seen household energy and food bills rocket. Scarf is delighted that SGN is supporting our project to bring relief and support to thousands of the most vulnerable households across the city.”
Linda Spence, SGN vulnerability manager, said: “We’re proud to be supporting Scarf in helping Dundee households to reduce their energy bill and become more energy efficient. Their specialist local knowledge makes them a great partner to work with and achieve our aim of making sure everyone lives in a safe and warm home.”