Citizen – SHDF Wave 2.1

Coventry, England

Project Value: £22m

Introduction

Funded by the Social Housing Decarbonisation Fund Wave 2, this multi-measure decarbonisation scheme was delivered on behalf of leading social housing provider, Citizen. It followed the successful completion of an earlier scheme for the same client, which involved retrofit works to 114 non-traditional properties.

This Wave 2.1 funded successor scheme aimed to improve the energy efficiency of various solid-walled property archetypes. In so doing, it also sought to reduce energy costs for nearly 1,600 people and to reduce associated CO₂ emissions.

Initially, it featured 652 properties and had a total value of £19.3m, but it’s scope and value were subsequently extended. Ultimately, it would entail enhancements to over a thousand homes, as part of a project with a total value of just over £22million.

The Project

The first phase of the project began in September 2023 and was completed in June 2025 as scheduled. It involved installing multiple decarbonisation measures, all in accordance with PAS 2030/2035 standards. Adhering to best practice, and a fabric-first approach, it included improving the thermal performance of the homes by installing external wall insulation, and fitting new, energy-efficient double glazed windows and doors. Some properties also benefited from the installation of new or top-up loft insulation.

As the scheme progressed, the project team was able to secure funding for extensions that permitted the installation of solar PV arrays, together with associated improvements to the building fabric. The associated works were delivered in three batches. The first featured 111 properties, which benefited from the installation of solar PV panels, alongside ventilation improvements.

The second encompassed 150 properties in Hereford, while the third featured 147 properties owned by West Midlands Combined Authority. The measures for all batches were similar.

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.

Proven protocols for resident and community liaison also played an important part in keeping residents informed and preventing ‘no access’ issues from delaying progress on site.

The project ultimately achieved its stated objectives. On completion, the total calculated energy savings arising from the initial phase were estimated at 4,375,800 kwh/year, and the total carbon savings amounted to 1,193,400 kg/year (CO₂). All properties achieved an EPC rating of C or above.

The solar PV element also proceeded smoothly. The first batch was completed in two months, while the second and third ran according to schedule between January and March of 2026.

The social impacts of the works included hundreds of families enjoying better living conditions and appreciable savings on their energy bills. The scheme also supported 93 full-time and part-time jobs within the local supply chain. Environmental impacts included substantial carbon-savings and reduced dependence on fossil fuels.

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.”