More South Holland tenants are enjoying warmer, more comfortable homes and lower energy bills following a programme of green energy improvements to Council properties.
South Holland District Council has already completed improvement works to 469 homes and has secured funding to upgrade a further 740 of the council’s least energy efficient properties. Subject to future funding opportunities, the Council aims to upgrade even more homes.
The improvements are tailored to each property, helping homes move towards an EPC rating of C where possible. Measures have included air source heat pumps, solar photovoltaic panels, loft insulation, external wall insulation, ventilation improvements and low-energy lighting.
In the previous round of work, 370 solar panel systems, 47 air source heat pumps, 469 loft insulation upgrades and 151 external wall insulation improvements were installed.
Together, the works are helping tenants heat their homes more efficiently. For those with solar panels, homes are also generating power, helping to keep electricity costs down.
Margaret was one of the first tenants to benefit from the programme. Her home had solar photovoltaic panels, an air source heat pump and external wall insulation installed.
Before work began, a home survey was carried out. The Council and its contractor worked closely with Margaret throughout the process, answering questions, easing concerns and explaining the schedule of works.
Timings for each stage were explained, and photographs were taken before work started so rooms could be returned to their original condition.
Before the improvements, Margaret limited her heating to one room and paid around £100 a month for heating and hot water during winter. In winter 2024/25, heating and hot water for her whole home cost around £40 a month.
Margaret said: “I tell everyone, it’s made a difference to me and my pension. I haven’t had to use my electric blanket since the installation, and I used to have that on during the summer.
“I never thought it would be this good. I’ve lived here for 57 years and I’ve never felt this warm.”
Gedney Hill tenant Tony Dean has also seen a difference. When he moved into his South Holland home, it already had an air source heat pump and cavity wall insulation. Since then, solar panels, loft insulation and other improvement works have been fitted.
In February this year, Tony’s energy bill was less than £100 for his two-bedroom bungalow. Between 14 June and 14 July, his bill was just £9.99.
Tony said: “The bills just keep falling – constantly.
“My advice to tenants is, if you are contacted offering you improvements, take it. Don’t put it off and don’t think it’s going to cost you a fortune – it won’t.
“You can have lower bills and a better way of life.”
Cllr Tracey Carter, Portfolio Holder for Strategic and Operational Housing, said: “”These improvements are making a real difference to tenants’ lives, helping them to live in warmer, more comfortable homes while reducing the pressure of rising energy costs.
“We know that every household is different, which is why these upgrades are tailored to each property, ensuring tenants receive the measures that will have the greatest benefit. The Council and its contractors work with tenants throughout the whole process so they understand the works available and the benefits they will have for their home and bills.
“It is fantastic to hear from residents like Margaret and Tony about the positive impact the work has already had, and we are pleased to be able to continue this investment in more homes across South Holland.”
To find out more about the Warm Homes scheme, visit the www.sholland.gov.uk/article/30790/Improving-the-energy-efficiency-of-homes or email [email protected] or call 01775 764449 or 01775 764881