More than £54 million is to be invested towards boosting energy efficiency and cutting down on greenhouse gas emissions in Scotland's homes.

Speaking at the All Energy conference in Glasgow today, 02 May, First Minister Nicola Sturgeon outlined plans for all homes to be improved so they achieve an Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) rating of at least Band C by 2040.

The Route Map to an Energy Efficient Scotland confirms that landlords of privately rented homes will be required to achieve an Energy Performance Certificate rating of Band E from April 2020 at change of tenancy, and then Band D from 2022. In addition, all private rented properties will need to be EPC Band E by end March 2022 and Band D by end March 2025. This is aimed at ensuring private rented tenants live in homes which are warmer and more affordable to heat.

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Local authorities will also benefit from the £54.5m funding by expanding their existing energy efficiency and fuel poverty programmes. The investment will also continue to support building owners to develop local heat and energy efficiency strategies as well as making funding available to social landlords to help them install low carbon heating systems such as air and ground source heat pumps.

FM Sturgeon said: "The Scottish Government's energy efficiency programme will help ensure all our buildings are warmer, greener and more energy efficient.

"The major investment in this programme highlights our clear commitment to ensuring that we tackle fuel poverty and reduce greenhouse gas emissions – helping those on low incomes as well as protecting our environment."

Cllr Elena Whitman, COSLA Community Wellbeing Spokesperson, said: "The publication of the Energy Efficiency Scotland Route Map is welcomed by Scottish Councils. Our buildings need to be comfortable to work and live in, and heating them should be affordable. The route map will address this and is a priority for council leaders.

"Local Government is ready to work in a constructive partnership with the Scottish Government. We've a good record of achievement on area based schemes. We want to deliver the ambitious targets and harness the significant local economic benefits that should result."

(LM/MH)