Energy / OVO to head north to take part in energy advice event
ENERGY company OVO is set to host a drop-in community event in Lerwick where staff from a range of organisations will be on hand to answer questions and provide advice.
This includes advice about the upcoming Radio Teleswitch Service (RTS) switch-off at the end of June, which has caused concern among the community and politicians alike.
Shetland Islands Citizens Advice Bureau manager Della Armstrong said OVO’s visit was “thanks to the tenacity of our energy team”.
The event will take place at the Sound Hall in Lerwick on Thursday 13 March between 10am and 3pm.
Armstrong said: “The OVO team will comprise of billing advisers, RTS [Radio Teleswitch Service] specialists, and engineers, who will be able to provide support and information to those who need it, as well as providing free energy saving items.
“The team will also be supported by StepChange in providing debt advice.”
Further advice will be provided by the Citizens Advice Bureau, Home Energy Scotland, Hjaltland Housing Association and The Trussell Trust.
Armstrong added: “I would particularly urge those who are worried by the continuing rise in energy bills and other household costs to come along.
“This event will also provide folk with the opportunity to raise with OVO any concerns, and ask any questions, they might have in regard to smart meter installation.
“Advice is available for everyone, and not just OVO customers.”
John Clarkson, Shetland’s Home Energy Scotland energy specialist added: “I’m looking forward to attending the event, and providing free impartial advice on heating, insulation and renewable energy measures.
“Folk can come and ask me about funding support too.”
Paul Leask from Hjaltland Housing Association said technical and financial inclusion staff from the organisation will be in attendance “to offer tenants advice on energy, technical assistance, and financial support”.
Steven Donovan, vulnerability lead at OVO, said: “We know that people are worried about their energy bills.
“OVO in the community was designed to provide support to those that need it most, which is why we are heading to Shetland to extend our Extra Support Package.
“To take this support even further, we’d like to see the government implement a social tariff aimed at protecting the most vulnerable households.
“We also know many in the Shetland community are concerned about the RTS switch off, so we will also be providing additional support and guidance on this, and encourage people to come along and ask questions.”
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