The Northern Ireland Housing Executive (NIHE) is to lead a energy efficiency project across Northern Europe.

The 'Handi- Heat' project will tackle fuel poverty, identify renewable energy solutions and improve energy efficiency in rural homes across the region. It will also aim to identify resources for government policy makers on sustainable energy solutions for rural communities.

The Northern Periphery & Arctic Programme (NPA) and the European Regional Development Fund are supporting the project.

NIHE has secured funding of €2 million to deliver the three-year scheme.

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Speaking at the launch event in Belfast Castle, Dr Michael McBride, Chief Medical Officer for Northern Ireland said: "Fuel poverty is a long-standing health issue, recognised for many years by researchers, medical professionals and policy makers alike. The link between living in cold, damp conditions and a number of illnesses, including poor mental health, respiratory disease and premature mortality has long been accepted.  

"I welcome this innovative project and I look forward to hearing how it evolves over the coming months."

NIHE Chief Executive, Clark Bailie, added: "Handi – Heat is a fantastic opportunity for us to collaborate with a range of organisations from the Republic of Ireland, Finland, Iceland and the Shetland Islands to find solutions to problems faced by rural householders such as a reliance on home heating oil.

"We will also be upgrading and providing four of our homes in Fermanagh with a renewable energy supply so we can find out how these measures could benefit our rural tenants."

(CM/JG)