Making council homes more energy efficient

We know that things like new windows and improved insulation all help to make homes feel warmer, while reducing fuel bills for tenants, and so we’re looking at where and how we can deliver lasting improvements.

We are carrying out energy-efficiency assessments at over 1000 council homes across the city to provide properties with an Energy Performance Certificate (EPC). An EPC rates each property from A (most efficient) to G (least efficient), looking at things like how much energy is needed to heat and light your home, and what its carbon dioxide emissions are. EPCs are usually required when a property is sold, but we are doing these surveys to see how and where we need to make investments to your homes. The result of the EPCs will help us better plan and deliver energy-saving measures to council homes in the future.

We are also working with Southampton-based company Absolar, to develop a Carbon Action Planning Tool (CAPT). Using the results of the energy assessments, this tool will identify which homes most need improving, refurbishing or upgrading. Currently we have around 12,000 properties with EPC ratings, and one third of these are already rated C or above. CAPT will allow us to plan where we need to prioritise future works such as installing new double and triple glazing windows, cavity, loft, and external wall insulation. This will mean these homes are easier to keep warm, so you don’t need to spend as much money on heating costs.

Our aim is to get all our homes up to EPC band C by 2030, where practical, cost-effective and affordable. If your home is set to receive an energy assessment, we will write to you with details.