McArthur calls on government to maximise access to funding for fuel poverty schemes

Speaking yesterday in response to a statement from the Climate Action Minister Dr Alasdair Allan, Orkney’s MSP Liam McArthur highlighted that funding for area-based energy efficiency schemes is not being utilised effectively across Scotland.

Orkney has some of the highest levels of fuel poverty in the country, and the local council consistently uses its full allocation under the current scheme, which is designed to support households with insulation and other measures to bring down energy bills.

Many councils are not making full use of this funding, however, with a £60 million underspend across Scotland.

Speaking in the chamber, Mr McArthur highlighted the need for adequate notice to be given to council of funding allocations, and for unspent funds to be reallocated to areas with the highest levels of need, such as Orkney.

In response, the Minister acknowledged the high rates of fuel poverty in island communities and offered to engage further on the matter of funding allocations.

Commenting after the exchange, Mr McArthur said:

“Area-based efficiency schemes can have a huge impact in supporting households with their energy bills and reducing emissions. 

“In Orkney, this funding is well-used, but I know from conversations with the local authority and third sector organisations they could do so much more if resources allowed. To see funds going unspent elsewhere in Scotland is therefore galling.

“It’s vital that councils are given adequate notice of funding allocations to ensure the maximum potential of making use of the funds. Where funding cannot be used, for whatever reason, this money must be reallocated quickly to councils such as OIC, who have the capacity to do more and are facing the highest levels of fuel poverty in the country.

"I look forward to engaging further with Minister and OIC to see what steps might be taken maximise the use made of the available funding to reduce bills, heat homes and cut emissions."