BUSINESSES across East Lothian are on course to save more than £6 million on their energy bills through a Scottish Government-funded programme.

Small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) have been using a free service run by Zero Waste Scotland to find ways they can cut their energy use and reduce carbon emissions.

Since the start of 2016, the impartial advice given to companies in East Lothian has identified £16 million of potential energy savings through services such as heating, lighting and building upgrades.

Marissa Lippiatt, head of resource efficiency at Zero Waste Scotland, felt it benefited all parties.

She said: “It is pleasing to see so many businesses in East Lothian deciding to take action to reduce their energy use. Not only does this add profit directly to their bottom line, but it also goes a long way to helping Scotland meet its target to reduce carbon emissions to net zero by 2045.”

To find out more, or to apply, visit www.energy.zerowastescotland.org.uk