European cash to help fuel poor

European millions should help those in fuel poverty.

People in Wales' most deprived communities are to benefit from up to £34m of European funding to improve energy efficiency.

For the first time European funding will be used to support investments in energy efficiency and renewable energy.

The money is available to people in Wales following changes introduced by the European Commission.

It is hoped it will help cut carbon emissions and fuel bills as well as boost so-called 'green jobs'.

The money will be targeted to help those living in Wales' most deprived communities.

It should contribute to the assembly government's commitment to cut annual emissions by 3% a year from 2011.

'Green jobs'

Deputy First Minister Ieuan Wyn Jones said making homes more energy efficient was a key part of the government's ambitions to reduce Wales' carbon footprint.

He said: "Improving energy use in the home is also an important step in the delivery of our green jobs strategy for Wales, developing skilled jobs for local people.

"Domestic energy efficiency is a growing industry, and we have the opportunity to position Wales at its forefront through this investment.

"I will now be looking carefully at the options available to maximise the economic, social and environmental impact of these changes as soon as possible."

Environment Minister Jane Davidson said the European funds would help those on low incomes who will benefit from savings on their fuel bills.

The funding will come from the existing £1.2bn European regional development fund allocation.