High Level Summary of Statistics Trend
Fuel Poverty
Last update: November 2012
A person is living in fuel poverty if, in order to maintain a satisfactory heating regime, they would be required to spend more than 10 per cent of their household income (including Housing Benefit or Income Support for Mortgage Interest) on all household fuel use. The Scottish Government have pledged to ensure that by November 2016, so far as is reasonably practicable, people are not living in fuel poverty in Scotland.
Central heating is an important factor in reducing the incidence of condensation, resulting in improved comfort for occupants, as well as contributing to enhanced energy efficiency of the dwelling. Between 1991 and 2009, the percentage of dwellings with full central heating has risen from 62% to 98%. Fuel poverty fell sharply between 1996 and 2002, mainly due to increased income and falling fuel prices. However, fuel poverty has been rising in more recent years, largely because current increases in fuel prices are only being partially offset by rising incomes and energy efficiency increases. In 2010, 28% of households were in fuel poverty, compared to 13% in 2002.
Source: Scottish House Condition Survey
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Note: The definition of fuel poverty changed in 2002, and figures for 1996 are therefore not comparable with later years.
Further Information
Scottish House Condition Survey
Heating Your Home