Speaking at the Energy Action Scotland Silver Jubilee Lunch today (Friday 27 June), ScottishPower Chief Executive Nick Horler took the unique step of asking for direct input from fuel charities to help decide the most effective ways that the energy company can spend its increased commitment to help vulnerable customers in Scotland.

In April Britain's largest energy suppliers agreed with the Government to triple the amount they spend on helping their most vulnerable customers by at least £150 million by the winter of 2010-11.

Mr Horler asked Energy Action Scotland to consider leading a seminar, which ScottishPower would facilitate, to hear views from as many of their members as possible as to how this additional money should directed.

During his speech, Nick Horler said: “Electricity suppliers recently agreed to increase their collective expenditure on social assistance to a level of at least £150 million by the financial year 2010-11 – an increase of £225 million over the next three years.  As well as continuing to shield our customers against the very sharp increases in global commodity prices, this will see ScottishPower treble our funding in this important area.

“Although Ofgem has agreed to lead a process to set the parameters for what can be included under this spend, we would like to hear directly from Energy Action Scotland and their members. I am determined that this additional money is effectively targeted and we would very much value the expert opinion of everyone in the room. 

“Perhaps that way, we will, I hope, make some considerable in-roads to tackling fuel poverty and bringing relief to many poor households through Scotland.”

Media Information: Simon McMillan 0141 566 4515 / 07702 665 924