Half a million pounds has been awarded to the south west to train more energy-saving assessors, leading to more green home improvements.

The funding has come from the Department of Energy and Climate Change, after North Devon Council successfully bid for the money on behalf of North Devon, Torridge, Teignbridge and Mendip District Councils. It is to support the launch of the Green Deal, which is the government's new plan to help households improve their homes and save on energy bills.

The local money will fund a project called HEAT (Home Energy Action Taskforce), with the support of energy efficiency specialist and Green Deal pioneer, Enact Energy. This will see local businesses and community groups being trained to help deliver free Green Deal assessments over the next three months, whilst raising awareness of the assessment offer. The aim of the project is to increase energy efficiency measures being installed at homes across the region, such as loft insulation, damp proofing, new boilers or new windows.

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North Devon Council Leader, Councillor Brian Greenslade, said: "The HEAT project is a real partnership approach to help households get the most out of their homes. Not only are local authorities involved, but so too are various community groups and local business partners. It's thanks to all their support that we have been able to secure this money on their behalf, to benefit our communities in the long-run."

The local energy scheme is one of 132 projects across Great Britain to be awarded a share of £46 million.

(CD)