LOCAL trades businesses are being encouraged to have their say on energy efficiency in a new survey and workshop.

Peebles-based building and heating businesses are being asked to submit information on the energy improvement work they carry out through an online form.

The research is part of The Change Works in Peebles project, which is piloting different approaches to rolling out the Scottish Government's Energy Efficiency Scotland (EES) initiative in area.

The findings from the study will be fed back to the government to improve programme design.

It is estimated that in Peebles alone, building and heating upgrade work could be worth a significant amount of money over the next 10 to 20 years.

Scottish Borders Council and the Scottish Government say they are keen to see local – as well as national – businesses benefitting from these opportunities and are aiming to encourage and facilitate greater local uptake.

Most building and heating works alter the energy efficiency of a building, whether it is double glazing, adding an extension, retro-insulation, or a boiler upgrade – so the survey is aimed at all trades including electricians, plumbers and plasterers, and those who advise on upgrades – architects, surveyors and solicitors.

The survey, commissioned by Scottish Borders Council, can be accessed at http://nautilus-consultants.co.uk/news/peebles-trades-survey or through the Change Works in Peebles Facebook page.

It takes around 10 minutes to complete and the names of those completing the questionnaire are to be entered into a draw to win a £30 voucher at a local store. The closing date for the survey will be Sunday, February 3.

The survey will be followed up by a workshop on Tuesday, February 5, 4pm to 6pm, at the St Joseph’s Neighbourhood Centre. Organisers are asking that those interested send their name and contact details to crick@nautilus-consultants.co.uk, or text to 07968842295. The names of those attending the workshop will be entered into a second draw with a £30 voucher at a local store).

Councillor Gordon Edgar, Scottish Borders Council’s Energy Efficiency Champion, said: “I would encourage businesses within Peebles who are interested in finding out more about how they could be more energy efficient to take part in the survey and workshop.

“Not only are there environmental benefits, but it could provide financial assistance to the town for the long-term.”