Renfrewshire North and West MSP Natalie Don has called for the UK Government to devolve energy powers to Holyrood as a “frightening” number of Scots face fuel poverty.

According to the SNP politician, figures from National Energy Action (NEA) have revealed that “34% (around 850,000) of households in Scotland are currently living in fuel poverty, and 23% (over half a million) are living in extreme fuel poverty.”

Statistics which she stated come “almost come almost exactly a month after it was revealed that the three constituencies facing the highest average increase in energy bills are in Scotland.”

Ms Don told the Gazette: “It is frightening that 850,000 households in Scotland are sadly living in fuel poverty in 2023.

"Scotland is an energy rich country with natural resources in abundance, so this should not be the case.

“These statistics are the consequence of decades of failed energy policy from Westminster governments we haven’t voted for.

"For too long the UK Treasury has raked in the profits that Scotland's natural resources have generated, while seeing nothing in return.

“We saw it again with the recent autumn statement – the Westminster government failed to use the profits to give families in Renfrewshire, and the rest of Scotland, a £400 energy rebate.

"If Westminster won’t act, it must devolve energy and welfare powers to Scotland so we can.

“Only with the full powers of independence can Scotland chart its own course to green growth in the wider European market.

"Scotland has the energy, we just need the powers.”

Responding to Ms Don’s comments, a spokesperson for the Department of Energy Security and Net Zero said that they are providing “targeted support to the most vulnerable this winter.”

“Three million households are expected to benefit from our £150 Warm Home Discount and millions will receive up to £900 in further Cost of Living Payments,” added the spokesperson.

“We recently launched our Great British Insulation Scheme, helping families in lower council tax bands with less energy-efficient homes to keep their homes warm and save money on their bills."

The Department for Levelling Up, Housing and Communities were asked for comment.