A new advice network to help Scots cut their fuel bills was launched today.

The Energy Saving Scotland advice network will offer free advice on energy efficiency, small scale renewables and sustainable transport.

The one-stop-shop will help customers access grants from the Scottish Government and energy supply companies and, for the first time, will offer an energy home help service.

Energy Minister Jim Mather said: "We all need to think about how much energy we use. With rising fuel prices hitting people in the pocket, there's never been a better time to get energy wise - and a waste of energy is a waste of money.

"For the first time, the Energy Saving Scotland advice network will give a range of advice in one place - on energy efficiency, on the most suitable microgeneration technology and on sustainable transport. Having these components together allows consumers to consider wider opportunities of how they can reduce their energy use and their impact on the environment."

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The Energy Saving Scotland advice network (ESSac) is funded by the Scottish Government and managed by the Energy Saving Trust.

Mike Thornton, Director of the Energy Saving Trust, in Scotland, thanked the Scottish Government for their ongoing support and commitment to the new network.

Mr Thornton said: "There are three key features of the upgrade to the advice network which we manage on behalf of the Scottish Government.

"Firstly we are widening the range of advice and information each centre provides to cover energy efficiency, small scale renewables and transport. Secondly we will be dealing with many more customers. The new network will reach 250,000 people each year as opposed to 100,000 under the previous system. We will also be more locally focused in delivering the service. Each centre will draw up its own carbon plan based on the opportunities for carbon saving in the local area.

"The new Energy Saving Scotland advice network will provide everyone in Scotland with a convenient 'one-stop shop' service making it easier than ever for people to take action to save money, energy and carbon."

During 2008/09, the Scottish Government is providing £3.5m in grants for householders and £2 million for businesses through loans. Householders will be able to access grants of up to £4,000 and small businesses loans of up to £100,000 to install energy generating equipment, including solar panels and heat pumps.

Energy Saving Scotland advice network services are provided on a regional basis (Ayr, Aberdeen, Edinburgh, Glasgow and the Highlands), by experienced and expert local organisations working under contract to the Energy Saving Trust, giving full geographical coverage across Scotland. People can access their local centre on freephone 0800 512 012 or visiting www.energysavingtrust.org.uk

(GK/JM)