Over 14,000 boilers have been replaced in Northern Ireland since the introduction of the Boiler Replacement Scheme.

Launched in September 2012, in total 14,500 boilers have been replaced providing households with increased fuel efficiency.

Social Development Minister Nelson McCausland is urging those eligible to register for the scheme to do it by the end of the year as it is due to end on 31st March 2015.

Minister McCausland said: "The Boiler Replacement Scheme has been a considerable success with over 14,500 old inefficient boilers being replaced to date. Replacing an old inefficient boiler with a new condensing boiler can in an average three bedroom semi-detached house, see potential savings of between £300 to £350 per year. In these difficult financial times, savings such as this can make a real difference to the lives of those who the scheme is targeted at.

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"I very much welcome the fact that the scheme has helped such a significant number of households across Northern Ireland. It underlines my Department's commitment to supporting people in reducing their energy costs and maximising the energy efficiency of their homes."

The scheme offers owner occupiers a grant of up to £1,000 to replace inefficient boilers and is available to those who earn less than £40,000 a year with an inefficient boiler of at least 15 years and is dependent on total gross income.

(CD/JP)