The UK Government must take stronger action to regulate energy markets to reduce fuel poverty, according to the Scottish Government.

Its new reports also claim around 658,000 homes that are fuel poor in Scotland could be reduced by improving energy efficiency in households.

Scotland is encouraging homeowners to install loft and cavity wall insulations, which could save them up to £280 every year.

The reports show the nation has seen an increase in fuel poverty due to rising fuel prices, its ageing population and a growing number of single person homes.

Alex Neil, Cabinet Secretary for Infrastructure and Capital Investment said: “Scotland is an energy rich nation and no-one should have to choose between heating and eating. That is why we are continuing to lobby the UK Government to take a firmer stance with energy companies – encouraging them to cut their prices in order to help boost household incomes.”

The Scottish Government has provided a £65million funding to tackle fuel poverty and improve energy efficiency in 2012/13.