Esh Construction is set to spearhead a significant £2.1 million retrofit scheme across the Tees Valley, funded by the Department for Energy, Security and Net Zero. This initiative, part of the Home Upgrade Grant Phase 2 (HUG 2), is a collaborative effort involving Darlington, Hartlepool, Redcar Cleveland, and Stockton-on-Tees Borough Councils. The scheme aims to enhance energy efficiency in approximately 120 homes during its first phase, with Esh Construction implementing upgrades such as improved ventilation, loft and cavity wall insulation, air source heat pumps, smart heating controls, and photovoltaic panels. Each property will receive tailored improvements following a thorough retrofit assessment to meet an Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) rating of C.
Graham Hall, head of community safety at Darlington Borough Council, expressed optimism about the scheme’s potential benefits. “This funding will provide much-needed improvements for a further 100 households across the Tees Valley. This scheme has the potential for both homeowners and tenants to save a significant amount of money at a time when living costs are rising,” said Hall. The Home Upgrade Grant was established to meet England’s statutory fuel poverty targets by 2030, with a particular focus on homes not connected to the gas grid. The HUG 2 project prioritises properties with EPC ratings of D, E, F, or G. Low-income homeowners are eligible for fully funded upgrades, with no financial contribution required, providing much-needed relief to their financial burdens.
Esh Construction and its specialist supply chain will commence pre-design technical surveys to finalise the design plans for each property. This meticulous planning ensures that each home receives the most effective upgrades tailored to its needs. This significant investment in Tees Valley’s housing infrastructure underscores a commitment to sustainability and energy efficiency. By reducing energy consumption and costs for residents, the retrofit scheme not only supports the environment but also helps alleviate the financial burden on low-income households. Residents seeking more information about the retrofit scheme and eligibility criteria are encouraged to contact their local council offices.
