More households in fuel poverty in North Devon are set to benefit from home energy advice which could save them thousands of pounds.

The district council is entering into another three-year contract with home energy advice service 361 Energy.

The not-for-profit community interest company has received 272 referrals since it started working with the council in October 2021, bringing a total financial benefit of £158,000 to residents.

Advice includes switching energy providers for best deals, fuel-switching to the most cost-effective and low-carbon sources, behavioural tips that could save money like low-energy lighting and limiting hot water use, and help with benefit claims.

North Devon Council pays around £20,000 a year to 361 Energy to provide the service to people in private-sector rented properties. They said the company was "well-known and well-run".

But Cllr Glyn Lane (Ind, Landkey) thought more quotes should be sought, as he didn't think the council gets a lot for its money, as it had not reached its 200 households-a-year target.

He was told that the council was responsible for referrals and would be widening its net in terms of eligible people. So far the referrals had been based on the number of disabled facilities' grant applications, but not everyone had required help.

In future, this would include more residents on low incomes, receiving benefits, care-leavers and homeless people being supported to move into private rented accommodation.

The housing team is being trained to reiterate the benefits of this service to people it comes into contact with and the council's private-sector energy efficiency officer will monitor referral rates.

Cllr Ian Roome (Lib Dem, Barnstaple with Pilton) said this is a great partnership that had seen results for people living in the worst fuel poverty.

Cllr Malcolm Prowse (Ins, Bratton Fleming) said the scheme helped raise awareness of fuel poverty and the official referral numbers did not tell the whole story.

" £20,000 a year is a pittance for the work that is put in. Most people are doing it on a voluntary basis. They do incredible work for the amount of money they get.