Commenting on the report from Consumer Focus Scotland which has highlighted the role that area based projects can play in improving consumer take up of energy efficiency services in Scotland, Liberal Democrat Energy spokesperson Liam McArthur MSP said:

“The findings of Consumer Focus Scotland's report confirm the growing sense that an area-based approach to improving energy efficiency is essential if we are to achieve the level of take up we need to begin to tackle the challenge of climate change. 

"Sadly, the Scottish Government is failing to deliver.  Its area-based energy efficiency initiatives are undermined by Ministers wasting scarce resources on needlessly duplicating schemes and excessive bureaucracy. 

"Ministers must get a grip of the situation and ensure that communities have the capacity and support to get the job done."