Contract overview
Mears Group and South Cambridgeshire District Council (SCDC) transformed 237 rural homes through the Social Housing Decarbonisation Fund (SHDF) Wave 2.1 funding, delivering major Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) improvements, carbon reduction and average annual savings of £597 per household.
A data-led approach guided the selection of homes, with 443 retrofit surveys conducted to ensure funding was targeted for maximum benefit. By January 2026, 130 homes had been surveyed with 128 achieving EPC C and two reaching EPC B, significantly enhancing the energy efficiency of the council’s housing stock.
Scope of works
All works complied with PAS2035 standards and included:
- Loft and cavity wall insulation
- Double glazing
- Solar PV and LED lighting
- Ventilation and heating efficiency upgrades
Integrated delivery between retrofit and responsive maintenance teams ensured efficient sequencing, rapid resolution of issues such as damp and mould, and minimal disruption for residents. Digital compliance systems, geotagged photographic evidence, and staff training supported quality assurance. Dedicated on-site management and a Resident Liaison Officer ensured strong customer communication was maintained and adjustments for households were made, where required.
Outcomes and impact
The programme is projected to save 232.96 tCO₂e and reduce annual energy consumption by 231,945 kWh, directly supporting SCDC’s decarbonisation goals. While initial modelling forecast annual bill savings of £138 per household, actual average savings reached £597, over four times higher than expected, providing significant financial relief.
Homes are now warmer, healthier, and more comfortable, with improved thermal performance and indoor air quality. Addressing damp and mould alongside retrofit measures strengthened overall housing condition and tenant wellbeing.
Testimonials
“This programme has made an incredible difference to our homes and residents’ daily lives. Comfort and warmth have improved, energy bills have dropped, and homes feel healthier. The team worked professionally, kept residents informed, and adapted to challenges with care.”
Eddie Spicer, Service Manager – Housing Assets, South Cambridgeshire District Council
