Prior to retrofitting, all properties were rated as EPC D or E. Following the installation of a range of measures including external wall, cavity wall and new loft insulation, as well as new windows, doors, scores improved to EPC C and above.
Following assessments by Energy Specifics, external wall and loft insulation were identified as key retrofit measures, given their effectiveness in reducing heat loss and avoiding cold bridging. To keep costs low, draft proofing and low energy lighting have been used. Additionally, solar PV has been installed on some roofs, significantly decreasing resident energy bills.
Daniel Aspinwall
Divisional Manager
Stevenage Borough Council’s commitment to be a Net Zero emissions town by 2030 is built on eight strategic themes, one of which focuses on the residential sector – both private and social
Tackling climate change and improving sustainability is a key foundation stone for all of the council’s activities, as well as for local businesses and residents.
Leading the way on this, their research has shown around 30% of the town’s total emissions are generated within people’s homes – from cooking to domestic heating and general electricity demands. Targeting this is a specific strategy for the decarbonisation of social housing. This commits the council to achieving a minimum of EPC C across all of its 8,000 social housing stock by 2030.
Our role in helping to keep this in motion is welcomed by the council as a purposeful step towards their strategic goal. By using the opportunity to insulate properties and improve thermal performance, value from external funding has been maximised. Additionally, these properties now have the thermal foundation required to install renewable energy systems such as air and ground source heat pumps, if necessary, in the future.
Councillor Simon Speller
Cabinet Member – Environment and Performance, Stevenage Borough Council
Get in touch to chat about your fit-out and refurbishment project.
