Individuals and businesses in East Sussex looking to reduce their fuel bills could get help from a new energy saving initiative.

East Sussex County Council is to sign a special agreement with its neighbour West Sussex County Council to see how the two authorities could work together to promote the national ‘Green Deal’ scheme.

Green Deal is a new government initiative that allows people to install energy saving technologies in their homes or businesses with no up front costs. The cost of installation is paid back over a period of time through energy bills.

Councillor Carl Maynard, lead member for transport & environment said: “It’s estimated that over 14% of our households in East Sussex suffer from fuel poverty compared with the south east average of 11.5%. We want to support the most vulnerable in our county and this national initiative could help us to tackle fuel poverty at a local level, as well as help any residents and businesses who want to cut their energy bills and cut their carbon footprint.”

The scheme is also being supported by Brighton & Hove City Council as well as most district and borough councils in Sussex.

For more information about Green Deal visit www.westsussex.gov.uk/greendeal