Na h-Eileanan an Iar SNP MSP Alasdair Allan has welcomed today’s announcement from the Scottish Government that the Croft House Grant Scheme will be extended to include support for energy efficiency measures.

Crofters can now apply for grants of up to £38,000 towards the costs of home improvements which will help them save energy - such as loft or wall insulation, new zero direct emissions heating systems or upgraded windows and doors.

The grant scheme supports crofters to improve their homes or build new homes. Since January 2007, over £24.4 million in Croft House Grant payments have helped to build and improve over 1,100 croft homes across Scotland.

Alasdair Allan commented:

“I am pleased to see the Croft House Grant Scheme has been extended to help crofters improve the energy efficiency of their homes.

“As energy bills remain at all-time highs, the islands are being hit hard by the cost-of-living crisis. Crofters in particular are often living in older, less insulated houses while contending with some of the highest energy costs in the country. Improving energy efficiency will keep bills down and help keep people in the crofting counties.

“The scheme is an important mechanism for retaining young families in crofting, and in the islands, and I am glad to see the Scottish Government’s strong investment in it.”