Sanctuary Group, one of the UK’s leading social housing and care providers, has awarded mechanical and electrical specialists Correct Contract Services (CCS) a whole-home energy efficiency contract to bring over 25,000 of its low SAP-rated properties in England to an EPC band C rating to meet the Government’s housing carbon reduction targets.
Due to start next month (May), the five-year programme of retrofit works has a two-year option to extend.
CCS will deliver the works to the new Publicly Available Specification (PAS) 2035 standard for retrofitting homes for improved energy efficiency. This will include improving building insulation, draught-proofing, introducing smart meters, and installing greener, high-efficiency heating, cooling, ventilation, and hot water systems which may incorporate renewable new technologies such as solar photovoltaics.
Tony O’Neill Director – Asset Management for Sanctuary Group, commented: “Sanctuary is committed to providing decent homes for its residents. This programme will ensure the future proofing of these homes to help achieve both Government and net zero targets but most importantly provide warm, energy efficient homes which will also help tackle fuel poverty.”
Sanctuary Group manages over 100,000 accommodation units across England and Scotland. These include properties for rent, retirement living, supported housing, student, key worker and care homes.
“We’re delighted to be Sanctuary Group’s chosen delivery partner for this important whole-home works programme of energy improvements,” said Danny Gladwyn, CCS Managing Director. “Home energy efficiency is one of the most significant ways to reduce carbon emissions and create healthier places for people to live. These upgrades will not only reduce residents’ housing costs and environmental impact, but also increase comfort levels inside their homes.”
The Government’s carbon reduction commitment requires all homes to have a minimum EPC band C energy efficiency rating by 2035. Currently, 60% of households in England and Wales have an EPC band D rating — a 60 SAP score — or below. The score is based on energy use per square metre, fuel costs and environmental impact. The higher the rating, the lower the fuel costs and associated carbon emissions.
The UK’s housing stock accounts for around 30% of energy consumption and 22% of total greenhouse gas emissions.
