Scotland consults on tackling fuel poverty

The Scottish Government is seeking views on a new long term strategy to tackle fuel poverty. It has launched a consultation, which will run until 1st February 2018, asking for […]

The Scottish Government is seeking views on a new long term strategy to tackle fuel poverty.

It has launched a consultation, which will run until 1st February 2018, asking for opinions on its targets and timescales for meeting them as well as a revised definition recommended by an expert review.

Responses will be taken into account towards the development of a Warm Homes Bill, due to be introduced next year, which will put the new fuel poverty target in legislation.

Housholds in Scotland are in fuel poverty if they need to spend more than 10% of their housing cost income on heating and electricity for a healthy indoor environment.

Housing Minister Kevin Stewart said: “We know that far too many people find themselves struggling with unaffordable energy costs, including the elderly, families with young children and those with serious medical conditions. This is unacceptable in a modern, progressive and compassionate country like ours.

“This is why we are now seeking views on a new long term strategy which sets out ambitious targets to reduce fuel poverty.”

Ofgem today confirmed a £150 cap for customers in debt who are forced to have prepayment meters installed and banned them completely for the most vulnerable people.

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