RYEDALE DISTRICT COUNCIL took home the top prize at the Energy Efficiency Awards.

The council won Council of the Year at the Yorkshire and Humberside Energy Efficiency Awards for its work on fuel poverty.

This was after being recognised for its longstanding commitment, dating back to the 1990s, to improving energy efficiency in homes across Ryedale.

The council currently use a ‘whole house approach’, which supports residents through every stage from the installation of gas central heating to advice on the best tariff options.

Phillip Spurr, programme director for place and resources for Ryedale District Council said: “This win for our work as a council is a huge achievement and represents the tireless work of our officers over many years.

“Our work on various innovative schemes in collaboration with partners such as YES Energy Solutions has reduced fuel poverty and improved the health of our residents.

“This in turn has saved them hundreds of pounds on their energy bills and helped the council deliver on the aims in our council plan of helping citizens become more energy efficient.”

Several schemes are currently available to support residents with energy costs, including the North Yorkshire Warm Homes Scheme, Ryedale Energy Saver Scheme and Green Homes Grant Scheme.

Landlords can also apply for the Landlord Improvement Loan or Grant which can be used to improve energy efficiency.

More information about these schemes can be found on the council’s website: https://www.ryedale.gov.uk/information/housing/grants/