The Challenge
Sheltered housing plays an important role in supporting older and more vulnerable residents, but it presents challenges when it comes to retrofit projects. Many schemes were built several decades ago, with outdated heating systems, poor insulation, and limited electrical capacity. This makes energy efficiency upgrades more technically complex and often more costly than in standard housing.
On top of this, residents in sheltered accommodation typically live on fixed or limited incomes. Rising energy prices have placed significant strain on household budgets, with fuel poverty a very real risk. It was therefore essential that any project delivered both meaningful cost savings and lasting improvements to comfort.
Disruption was another key consideration. Older and more vulnerable residents can be particularly impacted by building works, so the installation needed to be carried out with clear communication, and careful scheduling to minimise any impact on daily life.
A local authority client came to Carbon3 to decarbonise this sheltered housing asset in keeping with their net zero goals.
Our Approach
Carbon3 worked closely with the local authority’s asset team and the residents themselves to ensure the project could be delivered smoothly. We prioritised resident engagement from the outset. We held regular meetings, providing simple and clear updates so residents understood what would be happening and when. This helped build trust and reassurance.
Carbon3 also planned carefully to minimise disruption. Our installation team scheduled work around residents’ needs and used efficient working practices to lessen interruption to daily routines.
The system was designed with residents in mind. Instead of exporting the generated energy back to the grid, we installed the system so that the solar PV array was wired directly into each flat. This meant residents benefitted directly from the electricity generated, maximising personal savings.
What usually happens in social housing flats is the energy is sold back to the grid, and residents benefit from this, but offsetting their own bills with renewable energy saves residents much more money.
The Solution
Carbon3 installed a 60kWp solar PV array across the sheltered housing scheme. The system was specifically designed to integrate with the existing infrastructure while directly benefiting residents.
The Results
The average household at this scheme is now saving £140+ on their annual energy bills, offering immediate and tangible relief against rising costs. The client can now prove 13,167.56 kg of CO₂ offset each year, significantly contributing to their net zero targets.
Carbon3 were able to ensure lessened disruption to residents, thanks to thorough planning and open communication throughout the process. We also fostered a stronger sense of community confidence, with residents reassured that their needs and concerns were central to the project.
Resident Feedback
“We had loads of meetings and were always in the loop as they say. I can only praise Carbon3.
Now there’s a definite change in my bills. Obviously what helps are the solar panels which have been installed.”
Interested in decarbonising your assets with a reputable partner who cares as much about your residents as you do?
