Bill-Cutting Investment Continues for Council Homes

Folkestone & Hythe District Council has begun its first dedicated solar installation programme for council-owned homes. 

The two-year contract is expected to deliver roof-mounted solar panels to 250 properties and is part of the council’s campaign to reduce the carbon footprint of its housing stock.

Properties have been selected based on current energy performance and suitability in supporting the council to meet Minimum Energy Efficiency Standards (MEES) and helping to reduce tenants’ energy bills.

Ian Williams, a property services company, has sent introductory letters to 100 of the chosen homes and is contacting tenants to arrange property surveys. A typical installation takes less than one day, and all works will be inspected and signed off by council surveyors.

463 council homes have already benefitted from energy efficiency improvements following the completion of the multi million pound Social Housing Decarbonisation Fund (SHDF) project.

All properties included in the SHDF programme have received energy efficiency upgrades that have increased their Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) score to a C or above. This contributes to the council’s overall target, with 80% of its housing stock now rated EPC C or higher.

Cllr Rebecca Shoob, Cabinet Member for Housing and Homelessness, said:

“It is fantastic to see the positive impact the energy efficiency measures have already made to tenants’ lives.

“The wellbeing and comfort of our tenants is our priority, and we will continue to invest in improvements that help reduce energy use and costs in their homes.”