Commendation for northern metropolis' initiatives against households struggling with energy costs

In the battle against the rising fuel poverty crisis, Leeds City Council (LCC) has taken a significant step forward with its 'Clustering for Warmth' project. This initiative, which is a key part of LCC's wider efforts to improve energy efficiency, is making a substantial impact, particularly in the North West and Scotland, where the crisis affects 12.1% and 25% of the population respectively.

The 'Clustering for Warmth' project, a collaboration with Cenergist, aims to provide residents with smaller utility bills and a more sustainable living environment. Since its inception in 2020, the project has saved social housing and low-income residents an average of 52% on their utility bills.

Adam Hill, group business development director at Cenergist, expressed his delight at being part of the LCC partnership for the 'Clustering for Warmth' initiative. He emphasised the importance of the project's impact on reducing utility bills and carbon footprint for residents.

The 'Clustering for Warmth' project replaces inefficient electric storage heating with ground source heat pumps, air source heat pumps, and district heating solutions. This switch has resulted in an average annual utility bill savings of £360 for residents. Furthermore, the project has delivered the equivalent carbon savings of 400 fewer cars or providing the energy for 235 homes.

The 'Clustering for Warmth' project is one of the country's largest green home and energy bill reduction schemes, with plans to deliver low carbon heating and hot water upgrades to over 170,000 council-owned homes between 2021-2024. As part of LCC's £100m investment to improve energy efficiency of its council stock by 2025, the 'Clustering for Warmth' project is a significant contribution towards the council's decarbonisation goals.

Recognising the impact of the 'Clustering for Warmth' project, LCC has won the best initiative to tackle the fuel poverty crisis category at the 2023 ASCP Awards. Cenergist is proud to be a part of this sustainable project, which has been a beacon of hope during challenging times. The 'Clustering for Warmth' initiative is indeed a significant stride towards a greener, more affordable, and more equitable future for all.