GET WARMER AND SAVE MONEY

A MAJOR energy saving campaign is underway to help Carmarthenshire families save money this winter.

Housing chiefs are behind a drive to stamp out fuel poverty and help residents who are hardest hit by rising energy prices.

Officers hope the plan will make homes warmer and more environmentally friendly.

Roadshows are being planned to give advice on ways to save money, and targeted promotions will be staged in areas hardest hit by fuel poverty.

A Home Energy Advice Pack is available, which is full of energy saving tips and information on ways to make your home warmer.

A dedicated energy efficiency advisor is on hand to support residents, and help is given on efficient heating systems, home insulation, maximising benefit uptake and grant funding for energy improvements.

Carmarthenshire County Council is leading the campaign, at a time when thousands of people are suffering health and financial difficulties because of high heating costs.

Officers say the moves will help improve the health and well being of people and increase energy efficiency.

Principal Housing Officer Val Brown said: “A great deal of work has been carried out to improve the energy efficiency of homes in Carmarthenshire and reduce fuel poverty.

“The Home Improvement Team can provide a range of advice on ways to save money and make homes warmer this winter.

“These improvements will have an impact on Carmarthenshire’s carbon use and a positive impact on the health and well being of people in the county.”

The moves come as the authority is behind a huge cavity wall and loft insulation programme for its council tenants.

Energy efficiency measures have been introduced in council homes as part of the Carmarthenshire Homes Standard.

The works are reducing heating costs for thousands of tenants, improving energy efficiency and reducing carbon dioxide emissions in council homes.

There are also benefits for tenant’s health because cold conditions can lead to respiratory conditions and are also linked to depression and anxiety.

Housing Executive Board Member cllr Hugh Evans said: “Many people develop or experience poor health because they are unable to hear their homes adequately.

“By seeking to improve energy efficiency in people’s homes and move people out of fuel poverty, we hope to have a direct impact on the health of people living in Carmarthenshire.”

For further information contact the Home Improvement Team on 01554 742202.