SAWMILLS in Scotland could make big savings after signing up to cut energy use.

The Environment Agency has issued the first Climate Change Agreements to the timber industry, letting firms slash power bills in return for investments in energy reduction.

Among 23 mills signed up for the scheme are two James Jones and Sons sites, two Glennon Brothers' sawmills, and two BSW plants.

Stuart Goodall of promotion body Confor said: "These agreements will see sawmills reinforce their image as businesses which deliver for both the economy and the environment."