In August 2023 CAS’ online advice pages had 372,574 unique page views from 230,119 users. The page “Funding for energy efficiency in homes” outlines a range of schemes that helps people to insulate their homes, reduce their emissions and cut their energy use.

Views of the page have fallen 80% compared to August 2022. In August 2022 the page had 3,751 views. In August 2023 it has had 698.

CAS believes it is likely people are prioritising essential spending during the cost-of-living crisis rather than loans or spending on insulation.

Data for August also shows an increase in demand for advice around crisis grants from the Scottish Welfare Fund, with an increase of 15% from July.

The charity is calling for more targeted support for low-income households in the drive to net zero.

CAS director of impact, David Hilferty, said: “Citizens Advice Scotland fully supports net zero emissions, however there is a real risk the cost-of-living crisis will undermine efforts to get there.

“Soaring energy bills, growing food prices and rising housing payments have all come together to create a perfect storm for household budgets. All across the Citizens Advice network advisers are seeing people having to make impossible choices on spending, and in some cases turning to debt to deal with essential bills.

“With that in mind, it’s understandable that we’ve seen a big drop in people checking our online advice and information around energy efficiency schemes. When the bills are up, and your income is staying the same, you don’t necessarily think about additional loans to insulate your home.”

He added: “Policymakers need to understand that this cost-of-living crisis will leave a legacy. People have had their financial resilience worn down and, in some cases, wiped out.

“Even if bills and inflation return to something more manageable, many will feel they can’t afford the costs associated with insulating their homes, if we are to cut emissions and cut bills in the long term, those with the least should get the most support.”