How To Take The Complexity Out Of Zero Carbon Retrofits
‘Unprecedented’ is a word we’ve heard a lot in recent times. Something that definitely belongs in the list of unprecedented things is the task of upgrading millions of social homes to net zero carbon performance.
Even the first stepping stone of bringing all homes up to EPC level C by 2030 represents a major challenge. It’s estimated that this will entail energy efficiency upgrades to around 60% of UK homes.
Sometimes when you’re faced with such a large multi-faceted programme the best approach is to break it down into straightforward steps. That’s what Osborne has done with the four step retrofit process.
The process looks like this:
- Assess stock condition and current EPC performance.
- Scope the scale of the works and Design the appropriate retrofit actions and budget.
- Deliver retrofit programmes in a controlled sequence and Engage with residents to minimise disruption and explain the benefits.
- Monitor, Evaluate and Certificate the performance of upgraded properties.
Having four distinct phases makes it easier to understand how individual actions fit into the bigger picture.
The Assess phase is based on established processes. These must be scaled up significantly and with more detail than is needed for EPC gradings.
To scope and design appropriate and cost-effective retrofit actions at scale the industry must break new ground. Osborne is fully engaged in this process as a partner on the GLA Innovation Partnership.
To deliver we have to build capacity in the supply chain. Residents have to be consulted extensively and engaged to help co-create solutions. Integrating whole home retrofits with upgrades such as replacement kitchens or bathrooms will improve overall efficiency and deliver clear benefits to residents.
The final step of monitoring performance will measure the energy savings that are achieved in practice and provide essential data for continuous improvement cycles.
Zero carbon retrofits won’t be straightforward, but breaking the process down into four steps helps to bring clarity to what needs to happen.
For more information on Osborne’s holistic approach to net zero carbon retrofit visit our resource centre. Or contact Nick Davidge ([email protected]).
