Thousands of homes across Scotland are to benefit from insulation, double glazing and central heating systems.

The Scottish government has invested £3.5m in 19 projects which will see old properties given extra help to heat homes this winter.

The aim is to drive down fuel bills by making properties easier and cheaper to heat.

The new project is being supported by the six main energy suppliers in Scotland.

Over 2200 properties are to benefit from the new measures, which will create an estimated 150 jobs, according to the government.

The government funding is just part of the £27m going into the scheme. Further money will come from local authorities, social landlords and utility companies.

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Deputy First Minister Nicola Sturgeon said: "With Scotland's first significant snowfall of the winter this week, we are doing all we can to help people heat their homes.

"Older homes are often the most difficult to keep warm and we are determined to help householders in this situation wherever we can.

"Today's funding will see thousands of homes across Scotland receive new measures like solid wall insulation, double glazing and new heating systems.

"That is also good news for jobs and the economy, with all of these projects generating work and supporting jobs.

"To help tackle fuel poverty we are actively working with energy companies to ensure that Scotland continues to get its fair share of energy company funding for efficiency programmes like these.

"Individuals and families looking for advice on how the range of energy saving measures on offer could help them should telephone the Home Energy Scotland Hotline on 0800 512 012."

(IT)