Scottish Government funding will help Ayrshire Housing retrofit 17 rural homes to cut energy costs and reduce emissions.

Tenants in 17 properties in the South Ayrshire villages of Crosshill and Barr are expected to see lower energy bills following upgrades delivered through Ayrshire Housing's Rural Retrofit Programme.

The Scottish Government has awarded £560,000 from its Net Zero Heat Fund. The fund supports registered social landlords across Scotland to install clean heating systems and energy-efficiency measures across existing homes.

'In the current cost of living crisis reducing energy bills for our tenants is one of the most important things we can do to take the strain off household budgets. Installing more efficient sustainable heating systems and insulating our homes is also crucial in helping us meet net zero greenhouse gas emissions by 2045', said Ayrshire Housing's Chief Executive, Lesley-Anne Junner.

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All 17 homes have now received enhanced cavity wall and loft insulation, triple-glazed windows and insulated doors. They have also been fitted with efficient air source heat pumps, solar panels and battery storage, along with new alarm systems.

Ayrshire Housing was formed in 2003 through the merger of Carrick Housing Association and South Ayrshire Homes. It has since expanded to manage around 1,700 affordable rented homes across both urban and rural areas.

"Thanks to these improvements tenants should see a noticeable drop in energy bills and a significant improvement in the comfort of their homes', added Lesley-Anne.

"This is the blueprint we want to use for future investment in our homes and we will be rolling out similar upgrades as funding becomes available."