A scheme to upgrade energy efficiency tech in around 70 properties in a West Yorkshire village is being highlighted as a national example.
Sustainable Building Services (UK) Ltd and Together Housing delivered a range of retrofitting works in a project supported by £1m of funding from the Government’s Department for Energy Security and Net Zero. The scheme, which has been showcased in the House of Commons, set out to improve EPC ratings of D to at least a rating of C, with upgrades said be saving occupiers up to £169 a year each.
Works included the installation of PermaRock external wall insulation systems, incorporating non-combustible mineral fibre insulation, and loft insulation. Now, Together Housing is already beginning to replicate the scheme at properties in Sowerby Bridge.
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Gary Lawson, managing director at Sustainable Building Services, said: "The energy efficiency upgrades to more than 60 homes in Illingworth is a shining example of what is possible through targeted retrofit investment. The decarbonisation of 26 million UK homes is critical to meeting net zero targets and we’re pleased to be using our expertise alongside conscientious organisations like Together Housing to enhance the living conditions for thousands of people every year.”
Patrick Berry, director of Together Net Zero, added: "It’s great to see this first wave now complete and residents benefitting from the work that has been undertaken. Low-carbon homes mean a lower cost to our residents, which is extremely important in the current world we live in. What’s more, we’ve been able to prepare these homes for more renewable technology when the time is right.
"And we’re delighted to be able to continue this work into the second wave of the Social Housing Decarbonisation Fund, doing the same as we’ve done in Illingworth to a further 154 properties and making improvements to more than 2,000 other homes in the area."
Cllr Scott Patient, Calderdale Council’s cabinet member for Climate Change and Resilience, said: "Projects like this are really important, and this level of investment from Together Housing is very impressive as we attempt to tackle the effects of climate change. Having met residents and seen the houses, it’s clear the work undertaken will benefit the community for years to come."
