The Scottish Government has unveiled a £60m fund to help local councils make homes more energy efficient.

The money will be focused on areas with high levels of fuel poverty.

Steps such as installing double glazing and solid wall insulation are just two of the methods that will be covered by the fund.

It is understood a total of £30m has been allocated across the 32 local authorities, but councils can submit proposals for the additional £30m.

Housing and Welfare Minister Margaret Burgess, said: "We are determined to help householders to keep their homes warm wherever we can. Basic energy efficiency measures can make a huge difference to Scottish families who are struggling to make ends meet, allowing them to heat their homes more cost effectively."

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Ms Burgess also said the funding would see thousands of homes across Scotland receiving the new measures which would help drive down the number living in fuel poverty.

She added: "Not only is this new investment very positive news for Scottish householders, it will also help to generate work and support jobs, providing a much-needed boost to our economy.

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

Under the scheme, all households (including private accommodation) will be offered an energy efficient plan.

The charity Energy Action Scotland has welcomed the new funding scheme, but admitted that it will not be enough to end the country's fuel poverty by the target date of 2016.

(JP)