The new framework is Scotland Excel’s largest ever contract opportunity, with 26 Scottish companies securing places as suppliers - 21 of which are micro or SME organisations.

The contract will help councils and housing associations drive forward energy efficiency measures in their properties to tackle fuel poverty, create warmer homes for local people and cut carbon emissions.

Julie Welsh, director of Scotland Excel, said: “I welcome the launch of this innovative contract. It is our largest ever in value and brings opportunities for 26 Scottish companies to secure a share of the business.

“With sustainability at its core, the contract will support councils and housing associations in their efforts to deliver energy efficiency improvements which will bring benefits to homes for current and future generations.

“The contract has been designed to help councils deliver improvements to housing to create warmer, more energy efficient homes, to tackle fuel poverty, and meet national carbon reduction targets, whether through local investment programmes or from national funding allocations.”

The framework will provide easy access to contractors for a range of efficiency measures including wall, floor, loft, window and door insulation, gas boiler and heating systems, electrical storage heaters, solar panels, and domestic and non-domestic energy assessors.

It will also deliver community and employment benefits with contractors committing to delivering a range of measures – including apprenticeships - to the local areas where business is secured.

Barbara Morton, director at Sustainable Procurement Ltd, welcomed the new framework.

She said: “This innovative contract demonstrates Scotland Excel’s commitment to supporting local authorities and housing associations in delivering real progress in energy efficiency combined with benefits to communities. This unique combination of energy efficiency and employment opportunities has the potential to bring lasting benefits to communities throughout Scotland.”

The 30 suppliers to the new framework are: