ENERGY ROADSHOWS

PICTURE CAPTION: Laugharne residents pick up tips on energy efficiency with help from CHES the polar bear.

A TEAM of experts is helping Carmarthenshire residents to save money on their fuel bills.

Roadshows are being held across the county as part of an energy saving campaign.

Carmarthenshire County Council is behind a drive to stamp out fuel poverty and help residents who are hardest hit by rising energy prices.

Officers are visiting groups and organisations across the area to give help and advice on how to make homes more energy efficient.

A programme of events is underway, with tours to luncheon clubs, mothers union meetings and mother and toddler groups.

Officers who run the authority’s Home Energy Advice Service hope the move will lead to savings for residents, as well as making homes warmer and more environmentally friendly.

Advice is given on efficient heating systems, home insulation, maximising benefit uptake and grant funding for energy improvements.

It comes at a time when thousands of people are suffering health and financial difficulties because of high heating costs.

Staff recently attended a meeting in Laugharne to advise residents about making savings on their fuel bills.

Energy Efficiency Advisor Graham Harries said: “We are carrying out a great deal of work to advise people about saving money on their fuel bills, improving the energy efficiency of homes and reducing fuel poverty.

“Estimates show that around 25 per cent of households in Carmarthenshire have difficulties paying their fuel bills.

“We can give advice on how to save money and what grants are available to make homes more energy efficient.”

Laugharne resident Joyce Kirkwood said: “We found the information very useful and we all picked up useful tips and advice.

“A lot of residents in the area are elderly and welcome help to make their homes warmer and save money.”

Housing Executive Board Member cllr Hugh Evans said: “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.”

Any groups wanting the team to attend a meeting or give advice can contact the Home Energy Advice Service on 01554 742202.