The Scottish Government has announced £1 million of extra funding for the Green Homes Cashback scheme, extending the programme to social housing provided by local authorities and housing associations.

Launched in 2012 and managed by the Energy Saving Trust, the scheme gives homeowners cash to make green home improvements such as insulation, new boilers, better window glazing, low energy lighting and new heating controls.

Up to £1,200 is available for each home, with grants given out on a ‘first come, first served’ basis. All installations must be completed by the end of March 2014.

Scottish Energy Minister Fergus Ewing said: “Fuel poverty is an absolute scandal in an energy rich country like Scotland. It is our belief that everyone in Scotland should live in a warm and safe home that doesn’t cost the earth to heat.

“The extension of the Green Homes Cashback scheme will give local authorities and housing associations the means to help their tenants combat rising energy bills, which are a huge concern for this government.”