Fuel poverty in the Western Isles is being tackled with the launch of a community-led cheaper electricity scheme.
Householders in the islands currently pay above-average prices for electricity and nearly 60% of homes are said to struggle to afford energy bills.
That makes it one of the worst affected areas in the UK but its hoped a new venture will help residents shave up to 20% off their bills.
Hebrides Energy, a not-for-profit community-interest company, is behind a scheme that aims to create a range of new Hebridean electricity tariffs.
It will do so by working with the existing Scottish “fairer energy” supplier, Our Power.
The partners hope the move will offer savings and help to curb fuel poverty across the islands.
The range of new tariffs on offer will cater for both standard and restricted meter customers, meaning that virtually every island home can opt to join.
Any profits will be plied back into the company’s mission to tackle fuel poverty.
Hebrides Energy chairwoman Carola Bell said: “This is a first-of-its-kind venture for the islands and the team at Hebrides Energy has worked long and hard to get this far.
“People living on the edge of the UK have all too often been penalised by higher fuel prices and many aren’t aware that they are free to switch supplier.
“Hopefully this scheme will help to highlight this big industry issue and encourage people to think about how they pay for energy, where their money is going and how they can help their community move towards a more sustainable future.
“It’s a great pleasure to be working with Our Power, with their proven track record and positive, community-centred ethos, and we hope that many islanders can benefit from the new tariffs on offer.”
Hebrides Energy is led by local agencies including Hebridean Housing Partnership, Western Isles Council, The Stornoway Trust, Community Energy Scotland and Tighean Innse Gall.
Clearly defined tariffs are offered at competitive rates, promising savings as well as a good ethical choice. It is anticipated that some islanders could save as much as 20% on their electricity bills.
Switching to a Hebrides Energy tariff is a short and simple process online or by phone.
Our Power is a UK not-for–profit energy supplier owned by social housing providers, community organisations and local authorities.
It sources electricity on the wholesale electricity market, bypassing the traditional “Big Six” suppliers.
