Eddie Stanton, our Managing Director recently took to LinkedIn to post an article about future sustainability within the Retrofit Sector – here’s what he had to say.
As we approach decision time on funding allocations for Warmer Homes we are at a turning point for our communities and the climate.
As floods and extreme conditions seem to be the ‘norm’ in the UK, and California burns, even the most devout climate change denier would be hard pressed to argue against the need.
So how can we make a real contribution whilst importantly raising the living standards of residents by making the renewable energy we generate more affordable and stable?
Imagine this: every social housing unit becomes a model of energy efficiency, sustainability, and affordability. This is no longer the pipedream of a decade ago —it’s now an achievable goal that’s gained momentum thanks to the technologies, forward-thinking policies, and evolving trends that have been evident in the sector for some time.
But what will the new wave of Government Funding bring? There are still lessons to learn and progress to be made.
Will we learn the lessons from previous funding rounds.
– Can we achieve longer term programmes that are not interspersed with disruptive spending reviews.
-Can the devolution model of funding as adapted by some authorities gain wider traction to avoid some of the stop start issues that have plagued the sector?
– Has anyone fundamentally addressed the issue that is accurate housing data? Many EPC ratings are so out of date and inaccurate that they result in waste or resource and time with the outcome, ultimately of fewer EEM’s and therefore fewer homes upgraded to the necessary standards.
Will we have the workforce necessary to deliver the work, given the nature of some very specialist trades and design requirement, how are we to address the gaps and will we be able to compete with HS2 and the proposed housing boom?
We know that from a technological perspective industry will come up with the systems and products required, but can we pull together the whole sector in an integrated manner to deliver our goals?
Big Questions for the Future:
How can we ensure that retrofits are both affordable and effective for tenants?
What role can communities play in shaping retrofit projects to suit their needs?
As decision-makers, innovators, and community members, we have the power to steer this transformation. The challenge is balancing innovation with inclusivity, sustainability with affordability.
What’s Your Take?
I’d love to get your thoughts and feedback.