In the UK, social housing must adhere to specific energy efficiency standards outlined by the government. In 2019, the UK government initiated the Social Housing Decarbonisation Fund (SHDF), committing £3.8 billion over a decade to decarbonise a substantial portion of the country's social housing stock. This fund aims to enhance the fabric of buildings to ensure they are energy efficient, ultimately addressing fuel poverty while also reducing emissions and enhancing energy efficiency in social housing homes.

How to apply for SHDF funding

Social landlords will be able to apply for an available grant when the funding opportunity is live. SHDF operates as a competition, evaluating applicants based on criteria such as alignment with objectives, feasibility of execution, and cost effectiveness.

To qualify, applicants must showcase and detail essential feasibility elements, including the ability to assemble a proficient delivery team, develop and execute retrofit strategies to enhance energy efficiency in housing stock whilst meeting set targets, and effectively coordinate all aspects of project delivery. As you can see from the detailed criteria, working with a net zero retrofit specialist as part of funding process will increase your chance of a successful application.

In order to receive public funding, retrofit projects must follow PAS2035. Click here to read our blog for a detailed breakdown about PAS2035

Challenges and Solutions

Challenge: 

Relying on EPC data or making assumptions about properties leading to properties being pulled from funding after the assessment stage. 

Solution: 

Collaborate with a retrofit coordinator early to help analyse your available data with retrofitting in mind. It's also a great idea to consider targeted pilot assessments wherever necessary. 

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Challenge: 

Not selecting a partner ahead of funding submission caused there to be a lack of time to mobilise and complete the required works. 

Solution: 

Engage with a partner ahead of any funding submission to create a clear plan and path for your project delivery.

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Challenge: 

There have been capacity challenges as so many social landlords look to complete net zero retrofitting across their property portfolio. 

Solution:

Choosing your retrofit partner early puts organisations in pole position to start the retrofitting process ahead of others. Funding is allocated on a first come first serve basis. 

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Challenge: 

There has been a lack of buy in from the residents which have caused delays to works or assessments getting underway.

Solution:

Establishing a structured resident engagement strategy which includes both the contractor as well as the landlord to keep residents informed and educated about the scheduled works. Make use of engagement mornings, door to door leaflet drops as well as traditional letters and phone calls to your residents

Engaging with your chosen retrofit partner early allows for a thorough and rigorous assessment of your property portfolio, ensuring the accuracy of your funding application and minimising the risk of errors or change requests further down the line. Get a head start and secure your retrofit partner during the stock analysis stage to avoid delays or additional complications. 

Contact our team at LivGreen today to discuss your plans and decarbonisation goals.