£400 offer to householders replacing inefficient boilers

HOUSEHOLDERS can apply for £400 cash towards replacing inefficient boilers from today.

The Scottish Government is offering the cash to 5,000 households on a first-come, first-served basis.

Upgrading to a more efficient boiler will help cut average household heating bills by a quarter, the government suggested. Estimates of savings range from 190 to 235.

Energy minister Jim Mather said: "There has never been a better time to get rid of an old, inefficient and costly boiler.

"Our scrappage scheme will offset the cost of a new energy-saving boiler, helping people to live in greener homes which cost less to run.

"This scheme will also provide a stimulus for the heating industry, supporting jobs at this crucial time."

The replacement boilers will save around 5,600 tonnes of carbon dioxide per year, the equivalent of taking between 1,700 and 2,000 cars off the road, according to the Scottish Government.

Applicants must own their home and have a G-rated boiler. If successful, they will receive 400 in vouchers but they must choose a recommended boiler and have it installed within 12 weeks of applying.

Additional discounts are available.

WWF Scotland policy officer Elizabeth Leighton said: "Home energy use accounts for nearly one-third of Scotland's carbon emissions, so it is essential that homeowners are given every opportunity to make their properties more energy-efficient if Scotland is to play its part in tackling climate change.

"At the same time as cutting emissions this scheme will create jobs and contribute to efforts to eradicate fuel poverty.

"We believe this scrappage scheme must be seen as part of an overall effort to make all of Scotland's homes low-carbon, warm and healthy by 2020."

Further information on the scheme can be obtained from the Energy Saving Scotland organisation advice network or at www.energysavingtrust.org.uk