Tamworth homes decarbonised in £3.2m energy scheme

Residents have expressed their delight at the results of an energy-saving project to help keep their homes cooler during the summer and warmer in winter, whilst also helping to keep energy bills low.

Energy and regeneration expert Equans has worked with Tamworth Borough Council to drastically improve the thermal efficiency of 50 council-owned homes in Hockley.

The £3.2m project has included installing new highly-efficient external wall insulation – covered by modern white render – which has transformed the homes’ energy performance and appearance.

Roofs have been replaced and insulated and new double-glazed windows and doors have been installed. New ventilation systems will help air circulate, reducing the risk of dampness and mould.

Carbon emissions from the properties will be reduced by around 2,000 tonnes over the lifetime of the technology installed across the scheme – as much as 1.6 tonnes of carbon per property each year, equivalent to the amount absorbed by approximately 70 trees.

The previously hard-to-heat homes now have Energy Performance Certificate ratings as high as C – an improvement from pre-work ratings which were as low as E.

Mrs Gale, who has lived in her home in Hockey for the last 12 years, said: “Before the work my home could be really cold – especially in winter - and I had to use draught excluders and turn the heating right up.

“I noticed that my house felt warmer as soon as the new windows were put in. The changes have made a huge difference both in temperature and in the house’s appearance and I’d encourage anyone in a position to have the same work done to go ahead – it is well worth it.

Chris Caffrey, Operations Director at Equans, added: “These homes have been completely transformed and are a prime example of how all social housing and council-owned homes could look and function in the future.

“We’re proud to build on our long-standing relationship with Tamworth Borough Council and to use our low-carbon expertise to help reduce emissions from homes typical of those found across the UK.”

Councillor Samuel Smith, Tamworth Borough Council Portfolio Holder for Housing and Planning, added: “These home improvements will make a huge difference in helping to make the homes warmer for tenants in winter, cheaper to heat and will contribute to keeping energy bills low.

“This project is part of a wider approach by the council to proactively assist tenants’ in failing properties to work to improve energy performance. It allows us as Tamworth Borough Council, take a detailed approach with each landlord and provide them with a suite of options to improve the property.”

The project has been part-funded by a £900,000 grant from the Government’s Social Housing Decarbonisation Fund, which aims to upgrade the efficiency of the country’s worst performing social housing.

Tamworth Borough Council declared a climate emergency in October 2019, with aspirations to achieve net-zero by 2050. Not only will this work contribute towards reaching this target by reducing carbon emissions, but it will also serve as a pilot for future projects in the area.