Scottish Government funds support for Scots in coronavirus lockdown as energy bills predicted to rise by 37 per cent

Householders facing higher energy bills as a result of the current Covid-19 lockdown can access free and impartial advice and support funded by the Scottish Government.

Those working from home or self-isolating are likely to see a 37 per cent rise in energy bills, equal to about £32 a month, according to research published this week on behalf of Comparethemarket.com.

With Scotland’s longer heating season and chillier climate the impact could be even higher than average for households here.

The Scottish Government’s advice service – Home Energy Scotland – is continuing to deliver free and impartial advice during the coronavirus (Covid-19) crisis.

A network of advice centres, now operating remotely, is providing support to people with prepayment meter issues as well as general energy advice and help to access grant funding.

They are also providing the latest information on emergency measures by energy suppliers to make sure vulnerable people do not get cut off during the coronavirus outbreak.

Charities and frontline services can also refer people who need help including access to available funding like the Warmer Homes Scotland programme.

Harry Mayers, head of Home Energy Scotland, said: “Staying at home will mean many of us see our energy bills rise. We’re all concerned about keeping ourselves and our families safe, but for lots of people in Scotland, covering rising household bills while getting through this is just one more added worry.

“Our service is free and impartial, and we are committed to keeping people across Scotland warm and in control of their energy use and spend during these unusual times.”

For the latest information from Home Energy Scotland and top tips for saving energy, visit here.

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