March 10, 2006 This news release issued by Energy Action Scotland

Warmer in winter, cooler in summer and more energy efficient. That’s what is in store for users of Rosemount Community Centre in Aberdeen, thanks to a project to install energy saving measures.

Local MSP Lewis Macdonald will be given a warm welcome when he visits the centre (Friday 10 March) to learn about the work that has been carried out and to meet those involved. When charity Energy Action Scotland received funding for its warmer communities initiative from ExxonMobil, the charity approached Mr Macdonald to identify a suitable community building which could benefit from energy efficiency improvements.

Rosemount Centre’s loft, windows and doors have been draught-proofed and an A-rated energy efficient fridge-freezer has been supplied. The work was carried out by local organisation, SCARF, and will assist Aberdeen City Council in meeting their target to reduce CO2 emissions in the City by 10 per cent by 2010.

An energy awareness information session on how to use energy more efficiently in the home is also planned for staff and users of the centre so that they can make savings on their own fuel bills too. Some lucky families will also receive energy efficient kettles.

Lewis Macdonald MSP (Aberdeen Central), said: “I am delighted that the Rosemount Centre will now be a warmer place in winter, thanks to this investment. When I was asked to nominate a building, the Rosemount Centre was an obvious choice. It provides an invaluable space for the community but needs some real investment to fulfil its potential. This insulation scheme is a very important step in the right direction.”

Liz Futcher, Development manager, Energy Action Scotland commented: “Improving the energy efficiency of a community building like this is important, as it gives greater comfort to the users and lowers running costs. It is thanks to the support of ExxonMobil that Energy Action Scotland and its members can carry out such projects.”

Alan Brown, Operations manager, ExxonMobil added: “Energy efficiency is essential for us all – in our homes, businesses and community buildings. ExxonMobil is pleased to be able to support Energy Action Scotland in its warmer communities initiative and I am delighted to have the opportunity today to see this initiative in action close to our offices in the centre of Aberdeen."

Notes to editors:
Energy Action Scotland is the national charity which works for warm, dry homes for all. It aims to eliminate fuel poverty by:

• raising awareness of fuel poverty, particularly as it affects low income households; maintaining fuel poverty as a national issue of high priority; and working towards affordable warmth for all
• identifying effective solutions which can transform cold, damp houses into warm, dry homes
• researching fuel poverty and related issues in order to provide in-depth understanding of the causes and effects and to promote best practice
• securing public and private investment in domestic energy efficiency initiatives.

The Rosemount Centre is used by a large variety of groups including pre-school, youth groups and adults. Activities include crèches and other programmes for the under 5s, youth clubs, education and life-long learning classes, fitness and recreational activities. The Centre operates a social inclusion policy and the fees structure is designed to suit personal circumstances. It also accepts referrals from GP surgeries.