Initiative to Tackle Fuel Poverty in Forth Valley, Loch Lomond and Trossachs

A new £354,000 energy initiative, funded by the Energy Industry Voluntary Redress Scheme, is set to alleviate fuel poverty among vulnerable communities across Forth Valley and Loch Lomond and The Trossachs National Park.

The Community Energy Empowerment Programme, led by charity FEL Scotland, will provide practical, community-led solutions to tackle fuel poverty and support communities facing complex economic challenges.

Running for an initial three-year period, the programme will empower individuals and communities by offering tailored energy-saving advice, training and 1-2-1 support to help immediately reduce household energy bills as well as build long-term resilience.

Supporting Vulnerable Communities

The project will support communities experiencing socio-economic challenges, such as Grangemouth which is set to face further financial hardship with the closure of Scotland’s only oil refinery in 2025.

“Fuel poverty is a growing crisis, and with the upcoming refinery closure, it’s more important than ever to support our most vulnerable communities,” said Clara Walker, Executive Director of FEL Scotland. “The Community Energy Empowerment Programme project will provide practical solutions to ensure families can afford to heat their homes, while gaining the skills they need to manage their energy use effectively.”

The project will also focus on areas of Falkirk, Clackmannanshire and Stirling where there are high levels of deprivation and fuel poverty; as well as providing support to rural communities in Loch Lomond and Trossachs National Park facing fuel inequalities.

Scalable Solutions

The project will see the charity train and support Local Energy Officers and Volunteer Energy Activators who will work directly with households to develop bespoke energy-saving plans.

As well as establish a Community Energy Skills Academy, equipping residents and community groups with essential knowledge and tools to create sustainable, long-term solutions to fuel poverty.

In time, the charity hopes to roll the project out across Scotland as Clara explained: “Through our partnerships with local authorities, community groups and regional organisations, we’re looking to develop a scalable model that can be replicated elsewhere.

“We’ll share what works with Scotland’s Climate Action Hub network, helping even more communities across Scotland benefit from the project.”

A More Affordable Future

The initiative is expected to result in tangible outcomes, including a significant and immediate reduction in energy consumption, lower energy bills for households taking part in the project and increased community resilience.

It will also support behaviour change and long-term energy literacy, ensuring that communities can continue benefiting from the programme long after the initial programme.

“This grant from the Energy Industry Voluntary Redress Scheme allows us to directly address fuel poverty while building capacity within communities to create lasting change,” added Clara Walker. “By working together, we can create a sustainable, affordable energy future for all that’s good for people and planet.”