Council officers will provide a further update on support for households facing rising energy costs after fuel debt handled by Advice Works almost doubled.
Figures presented to the Fairer Renfrewshire Sub-committee showed clients owed £58,738 in fuel debt during the first quarter of 2026/27.
That compares with £30,755 during the same period last year.
The figures were discussed at the sub-committee’s online meeting on Wednesday 2nd September 2026.
Renfrewshire Council’s Energy Management Unit has issued 230 fuel vouchers so far this year. These have supported 264 adults and 126 children.
Councillor Graeme Clark said: “These figures show that fuel poverty is perhaps one of the most significant challenges that we’re facing amongst local families.
“Behind all of these statistics are people, families and older residents worrying about how they can keep the lights on and keep warm in this winter.
“It’s good that we’ve got winter connections coming up and things like that to try and help.”
Councillor Clark asked whether the council could work with COSLA and the Scottish Government to secure further help.
He added: “The figures are shocking, the amount of fuel debt that people are carrying now.
“If there’s anything that we can do through the council to alleviate that further, that would be great.”
Officers said the council would continue raising concerns through national groups while working with local partners.
Advice campaigns will also be promoted over the winter.
An update focusing on energy support is expected to be brought to the next meeting of the sub-committee.