A SCHEME subsidised by West Devon Borough Council could save thousands of households up to £400 a year on energy bills.

Around 5,000 households in West Devon have to spend more than 10% of their income on heating their homes. CosyDevon, an innovative scheme offering residents substantially discounted insulation, was launched to reduce heating costs.

The borough council backs the scheme, which is led by energy company E.ON and charity Energy Action Devon. CosyDevon aims to tackle fuel poverty by making significant installation discounts available for home insulation.

The scheme is open to homeowners and private tenants in order to reduce energy bills.

In some cases residents may qualify for completely free installation — especially those on low incomes or who are in receipt of benefits.

Insulating the home improves home energy efficiency significantly and can save families up to £400 a year on energy bills.

The work is carried out by local, accredited installers and it usually takes only a few hours.

Fuel poverty is an important concern for the borough council in rural West Devon.

Cllr Mandy Ewings, chair of West Devon's future planning and housing committee, said: 'To date, more than 455 West Devon homes have been insulated through CosyDevon, and the borough council subsidises the scheme to help our residents save money, as well as reducing the negative environmental impact of homes in West Devon.

'Through a range of subsidies and discounts, the council hopes that residents will have a warmer, more energy-efficient winter and reduce their heating bills at the same time.'

Jon Kirby, of E.ON, said: 'We've been partners in Cosy Devon for a number of years now and I'm delighted we're able to continue helping with this really successful scheme.

'We're committed to getting homes energy fit — reducing energy use and cutting bills — and this is a great example of councils, communities and companies getting together to help people save money and reduce our effect on the planet.

'By tackling whole communities in such a way we can really start to make a difference and build energy efficiency into our everyday lives.'

To find out more or to arrange a free, no obligation survey call the Energy Saving Trust advice centre on 0800 512012 and ask about CosyDevon or visit the CosyDevon website at http://www.cosydevon.co.uk">www.cosydevon.co.uk