INVERCLYDE people are being urged to ensure they take advantage of free help and support with energy bills.

Ronnie Cowan MP, above, says the first point of contact for constituents should be their energy supplier, as they are best placed to explain what support is on offer, including cheaper tariffs or discounts for vulnerable customers.

Backing a campaign by Scottish Gas to highlight energy efficiency, he said: “Your energy supplier will be able to install a smart meter, which means an end to estimated bills. A smart energy monitor shows how much energy you are using, and what you are spending.”

Constituents may be entitled to extra support from the government and their energy supplier if they meet certain criteria. Last year more than 700,000 British Gas and Scottish Gas customers received the warm home discount – a one-off reduction of £140 on the electricity bill.

Scottish Gas customers should call 0800 072 8625. For more information on the Scottish Gas Energy Trust, visit www.britishgasenergytrust.org.uk