Up to £1.4 million is available for Orkney residents to help make their homes more energy efficient.

The local authority has secured the HEEPS: ABS funding from the Scottish Government to assist home owners, private sector tenants and landlords to improve their properties' energy efficiency.

Applicants can receive grants of up to £7,500 for;


• Loft insulation

• Internal Wall insulation.

• External Wall insulation (for solid wall properties).

• (Under) Floor insulation

A higher grant award of £9,000 will be considered for applicants who make a £1,000 contribution.

Steven Aberdein, Orkney Islands Council's Fuel Poverty Officer, said: "This is the third year of delivery for HEEPS: ABS in Orkney.

"Already almost 300 properties have been upgraded as a result. As we approach this significant milestone, we are taking the opportunity to remind people that funding continues to be available to make their homes more warm and comfortable – and to cut their fuel costs in the process."

(LM/MH)