Homeowners urged to work towards increased energy efficiency

Houses in Scotland could soon be more energy efficient due to a new focus on the matter by the country's administration.

The Scottish government has launched a new initiative to encourage the creation of more low carbon homes and the improvement of existing housing stock.

Minister for the environment Michael Russell told delegates at the Scottish Energy & Environment Conference in Glasgow that a greener approach to the housing sector is needed.

"Housing providers, the building and construction industry, householders and communities will all be encouraged to come up with innovative solutions," he said.

Mr Russell added that moves towards more energy efficient housing will cut fuel bills - and thus fuel poverty - for many homeowners.

The news follows an announcement from deputy first minister Nicola Sturgeon that £17 million is to be invested into speeding up the delivery of more affordable homes in the country.