Bradford schools could soon be stocking up on extra books thanks to a new campaign to increase energy efficiency in homes across the district.

The Bradford Energy Management Agency - funded by Bradford Council and the European Commission - has launched a drive to promote energy efficiency in households while giving schools a chance to earn cash for books.

BEMA staff will visit schools across the district to tell pupils and staff about the Energy for Books project, which offers advice and information about grants and discounts available to help make energy savings at home.

For every job commissioned as part of the project, the registered company used to install the insulation has agreed to donate £5 to a participating school to buy new books. Schools interested in the scheme will be given a talk by the BEMA team and shown a specially made miniature house with energy-saving features which can be installed in homes with the help of the grants on offer.

Eligible groups of people can receive grants through the national Home Energy Efficiency Scheme for loft and cavity wall insulation and draught proofing.

Householders who do not qualify for grants can still get insulation at discounted rates negotiated by the Council with the companies involved.

Councillor Latif Darr, chairman of the council's transportation, planning and design committee, said: "The project is an excellent way of spreading the energy efficiency message to as wide an audience as possible - especially to young people who are learning the importance of creating a more sustainable environment."

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