Government investment in domestic energy efficiency could help tackle climate change and create 9,000 new jobs

Leading economists have called on the Scottish government to boost energy efficiency investment in Scotland, describing it as an effective way to deliver a “shot in the arm” to the nation’s economy.

The researchers, from the University of Strathclyde and the London School of Economics, said energy efficiency programmes can create up to 9,000 new jobs and drive economic activity across the country.

“Our own research shows that energy efficiency improvements free up disposable income for low income households to better heat their homes or to spend on other things,” said Professor Karen Turner, director of the Centre for Energy Policy at the University of Strathclyde, in a statement. “This helps reduce fuel poverty and drive new economic activity, delivering a long term and lasting boost to the economy on top of the infrastructure programme itself.

“With the UK economy still reeling in shock from the EU referendum, energy efficiency investment is a direct shot in the arm, delivering a relatively rapid economic stimulus,” she added.

This article was written by Business Green – read the full story here.

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