One of Oban’s best known charities has been honoured with a national award for its work in helping to keep people warm.
ALIenergy were crowned a Fuel Poverty Hero by Energy Action Scotland. Fuel poverty is officially defined as a household spending more than 10% of their income on energy – after housing costs have been deducted.
The cost of living crisis and spiralling energy prices have resulted in a 38% increase in households living in fuel poverty since 2019. It is estimated that nearly one third of all households in Scotland are currently living in fuel poverty.
Each year Energy Action Scotland honours organisations and individuals going above and beyond to ensure their communities stay warm and safe.
‘I’m looking forward to the day when these awards are no longer necessary, but sadly they still are. So, until fuel poverty is eradicated for good we will continue to honour people and organisations going out of their way to support those living in fuel poor households. ALIenergy has been doing this for 25 years and have supported thousands of individuals with their fuel and energy advice over the years,’ said Energy Action Scotland chief executive. Frazer Scott.
‘They are an inspiring team of people doing extraordinary things every day, changing lives and giving a hand up to people when they need it most.’
ALIenergy helps vulnerable households cut energy costs and stay warm, develop locally-owned renewable initiatives that reduce carbon emissions and deliver community benefits and also deliver STEM workshops and career guidance to inspire future generations across Argyll and Bute.
‘The team has been a cornerstone of life in their communities for more than a quarter of a century. Rural areas have for many decades endured some of the greatest energy inequalities and yet this charity has always delivered incredible results for the people it helps. They really are at the very heart of the communities they serve,’ added Frazer Scott.
The award was presented during Energy Action Scotland’s conference in the Golden Jubilee Hotel Clydebank.
