Citizen – SHDF Wave 2.1

Coventry, England

Project Value: £18m

Introduction

Featuring 653 occupied homes in Coventry, this multi-measure decarbonisation scheme is being delivered on behalf of the social housing provider, Citizen. Worth around £18 million and funded by the Social Housing Decarbonisation Fund Wave 2.1, it follows the successful completion of an earlier scheme for Citizen. That previous scheme involved retrofit works to 114 non-traditional properties.

The latest scheme aims to improve the energy efficiency of various solid-walled property archetypes. In so doing, it also seeks to reduce energy costs for nearly 1,600 people and to reduce associated CO₂ emissions.

The Project

The Wave 2.1-funded project began in September 2023. It entails installing multiple decarbonisation measures, all in accordance with the PAS 2030/2035 standards. Adhering to best practice and a fabric-first approach, it includes improving the thermal improvement of the homes by installing external wall insulation, and fitting new, energy-efficient double-glazed doors and windows. Some properties are also benefiting from the installation of new or top-up loft insulation.

The aim is for every property to achieve an Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) rating of at least Band C by the time the project ends in 2025.

Results

SBS has well-proven systems and methodologies for delivering decarbonisation works at scale. Those include early engagement with designers and other stakeholders to enable rapid mobilisation, and a shared approach to project-reporting and problem-solving.

That approach has worked very well. The scheme is still ongoing but progressing to the original schedule. Within a year of commencement, SBS had successfully handed over 230 properties, all completed to the relevant standards and funding requirements.

The project is on track to deliver in accordance with the initial targets. On completion, the total calculated energy savings are expected to be 4,375,800 kwh/year, and the total carbon savings should amount to 1,193,400 kg/year (CO₂).

The social impacts of the works include hundreds of families enjoying better living conditions, and support for 93 full-time and part-time jobs within the local supply chain.

Client Feedback

Bridget Guilfoyle, director of asset management at Citizen, said:

“People are at the heart of everything we do, so its hugely rewarding to see and hear about the differences these energy efficiency measures are making to our customers.

“At Citizen we are committed to working with our partners to make a positive difference to our customers and communities – and we are looking forward to carrying out more energy efficiency works across the West Midlands.”