Retrofit project of the year – Midlands and Wales

Birmingham City Council’s Social Housing Decarbonisation Fund (SHDF) programme has set a benchmark for excellence in retrofit delivery, combining cutting-edge technology with resident-focused design. In partnership with Equans, the council has installed Switchee smart monitoring systems to give residents real-time information about their energy usage – resulting in significant savings and improved comfort.

All completed homes achieved at least Energy Performance Certificate Band (EPC) C, and many reached EPC A. More than 300 properties underwent pre and post-installation monitoring, revealing substantial improvements in air quality, temperature regulation and humidity control. Residents have also provided excellent feedback and have been very happy with the work delivered on site, the impact the measures have had on their bills, and their standard of living. 

Council tenant Susan Leicester praised the professionalism of workers and highlighted the tangible benefits: “Now that the work has been completed, I have seen my energy bills drop [by more than half]. I am really happy with that. All this has encouraged me to use the money I am saving to sort out my garden.”

The judges said:

“A strong programme at a large scale with some good examples of the quality of outcomes. Good approach to post-completion monitoring and use of associated digital technologies. Transformative in the impact it delivers”