Introduction

In our ongoing mission to support vulnerable and low-income households across North Wales, we recently completed a significant home energy improvement project in Abergynolwyn, a small village in southern Gwynedd. This case study outlines the steps we took to transform a cold, energy-inefficient house into a warm, energy-efficient home. Our process ensures that each project is handled with the utmost care, from the initial assessment to the final handover, with a focus on improving the resident’s quality of life and reducing energy costs.

Assessment

Upon the initial enquiry, we gathered detailed information about the property, uncovering multiple issues contributing to its cold and uncomfortable state. The property was not connected to mains gas and relied on an outdated and costly LPG gas boiler. Recognising the potential for improvement, our advisors visited the property to conduct a thorough retrofit assessment. We discovered the insulation in the loft had deteriorated, providing little to no thermal insulation. The home was assessed to have an extremely low energy efficiency rating of ‘F’.This assessment revealed the need for significant upgrades, including the replacement of the inefficient boiler, installation of an air source heat pump, solar panels, and internal wall insulation to help retain heat.

Funding

The improvements required for this project were substantial, but the resident qualified for financial assistance through the ECO-4 grant, the fourth phase of the Government’s Energy Company Obligation scheme. Our advisor assisted the resident in applying for the grant, ensuring that all necessary documentation was completed efficiently. The ECO-4 grant provided the primary funding for the upgrades, enabling us to carry out the necessary work without financial burden to the resident.

Installation

Once the funding was secured, we coordinated the installation of the energy-saving technology. The outdated Worcester LPG boiler was replaced with a 5kW Mitsubishi Ecodan R32 air source heat pump, known for its A+++ efficiency rating and excellent reliability. To complement this, we installed high-output radiators and re-plumbed the entire house to optimise the new heating system. Additionally, we installed 9 x 395W All Black Trina solar panels on the slate roof, which, when connected to the home’s electrical system via an inverter, could produce up to 3.6kW of electricity. This setup not only powered the air source heat pump but also provided free hot water, further reducing energy costs. A thick layer of loft insulation was also added to enhance the home’s ability to retain warmth. Throughout the installation, our team maintained regular communication with the resident, providing updates and ensuring their comfort and satisfaction.

Outcome

Upon completion, the home’s energy efficiency rating improved dramatically, leading to an estimated annual savings of £2,547 on heating and energy bills. The resident was extremely pleased with the outcome, praising the professionalism and dedication of our team and contractors. The improved heating system, coupled with the solar panels and insulation, has significantly enhanced the resident’s quality of life, providing a warm, comfortable living environment and reducing their carbon footprint. This project demonstrates our commitment to delivering high-quality energy solutions that make a real difference in the lives of vulnerable households.

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