A new support scheme offering £300 payments to households using heating oil and LPG has been welcomed as a boost for rural communities across the Highlands.

From 1 April, 2026, eligible households will be able to apply for the funding to help with rising energy bills.

The scheme will be administered by Advice Direct Scotland and is expected to run for up to six months, with two opportunities for households to apply during that period.

It is primarily aimed at low income households, including those receiving means tested benefits, but will also be open to others facing financial pressure.

This includes people with additional heating needs due to disability and those at risk of limiting their energy use because of cost.

Eilidh Munro said:

“This scheme addresses a source of anxiety in areas like the Highlands where the costs of heating a home are already higher than average, and rising due to the war in Iran.

“I regularly meet people who are concerned about this issue on the doorsteps, and it is commendable that the Scottish Government is taking swift action.

“Longer term support must be led by the UK Government, which has the reserved powers to force long awaited regulation of this sector and protect consumers.”

The funding comes as households face continued pressure from rising energy costs linked to global instability.

Housing Secretary Màiri McAllan said:

“We know that the sudden rise in heating oil and LPG prices due to global events has come as a shock to many people, particularly in rural and island areas.

“Last week the UK Government announced just £4.6 million of support for Scotland.

“This was insufficient so we are more than doubling it to £10 million.

“Given the urgency of the situation as a result of the ongoing conflict in the middle east, I can confirm that the support in Scotland will be open to applications from next week.

“We’re working quickly with the Scottish Government to get this scheme operational to get help to the people who need it most.

“Full details of how and where to apply will be released shortly and we remain available to provide energy advice.”

The scheme is expected to provide targeted relief for households that rely on alternative heating sources, which are more common in rural and island areas.

With energy costs continuing to fluctuate, the support is intended to ease immediate pressure while wider policy discussions continue.