During the past year, the Scottish Government has provided £170 million of funding through its Heat in Buildings delivery schemes and helped over 138,000 households through the Home Energy Scotland advice service.

The report also shows that the government has made over 8,000 fuel poor households warmer and easier to heat, and installed over 5,100 zero direct emissions heating systems in homes.

Welcoming the publication, zero carbon buildings minister Patrick Harvie said: “Today’s report highlights the range and scale of the support we are providing to people to make Scotland’s buildings greener and easier to heat. Last year, we provided £170m in support, helping families and businesses make their homes and buildings climate friendly.

“We are committed to tackling climate change in a way that’s fair and leaves no one behind. That is why we have helped 8,000 fuel poor households make their homes easier to heat, and launched our new Warmer Homes Scotland scheme, with up to £728m available over the next seven years.

“The UK Government’s decision to roll back on net zero commitments has created huge uncertainty for businesses and households. In contrast, our New Build Heat Standard coming in next year means that all new buildings will need zero direct emissions heating systems. This gives industry a clear and positive message on where investment is needed.

“I remain determined to support the people of Scotland through the heat transition, leading to warm and healthy homes and buildings, while tackling fuel poverty and climate breakdown. Our forthcoming Heat in Buildings Bill will help put in place the certainty that’s needed to deliver that change.”

The New Build Heat Standard comes into effect in April 2024.