Delivering Whole House Retrofit Improvements Across 119 Homes
Aran partnered with CHS Group (Cambridge Housing Society) to deliver a £2.2 million Social Housing Decarbonisation Fund (SHDF) Wave 2.2 programme, helping to improve the energy efficiency, comfort and sustainability of social housing across the region.
Using a whole-house retrofit approach, the programme brought together a range of energy efficiency measures, renewable energy technologies and modern electric heating systems to improve the performance of older properties and help reduce household energy consumption.
Between November 2024 and August 2026, Aran delivered 421 energy efficiency measures across 119 homes, with all 119 properties achieving EPC Band C. The improvements form part of CHS Group's longer-term strategy to reduce carbon emissions and support its ambition for all of its housing stock to reach EPC C or above by 2030.
Bryan Padley, Asset Manager at CHS Group, reflected positively on Aran's delivery of the project:
"As principal contractor, Aran developed a strong local supply to deliver works at a high standard and on time. Their PAS project experience assisted onsite works and project administration, plus they're very approachable and provide practical solutions to potentially difficult design scenarios. I'd be happy to use Aran on future projects based on current performance."
A Tailored Approach to Social Housing Retrofit
Aran adopted an area-based delivery approach, allowing retrofit measures to be installed efficiently while minimising disruption for residents. Detailed property assessments and surveys were carried out to identify the most appropriate improvements for each home's construction type and energy requirements.
The programme included:
- External Wall Insulation (EWI) to older solid-wall properties
- Loft and flat roof insulation upgrades
- Window, front and rear door upgrades
- Solar PV installations
- Modern high-retention storage heaters
- Resident liaison and engagement
- PAS 2030:2023 compliant retrofit delivery
- Quality assurance and project administration
For older solid-wall properties, External Wall Insulation and upgraded loft insulation reduced heat loss and improved energy efficiency, while Solar PV systems helped residents generate renewable electricity and lower energy costs. Modern high-retention storage heaters were also installed in electrically heated homes, offering greater control and improved heat retention.
Working With a Local Retrofit Delivery Partner
A key element of the programme was CHS Group's decision to work with a regional contractor with the capability to deliver large-scale retrofit works while maintaining a responsive, personalised approach.
Based in East Anglia, Aran brought local knowledge, established supply chain relationships and extensive retrofit expertise to the programme. Developing a strong local supply chain helped support efficient delivery while contributing to local employment, skills development and investment in regional businesses.
Throughout the programme, resident communication and engagement remained an important part of the delivery process, helping to create a positive experience for residents while ensuring works were completed safely, efficiently and to the required quality standards.
Project Outcomes
The SHDF Wave 2.2 programme delivered measurable improvements for CHS Group and its residents:
- 119 homes upgraded to EPC Band C
- 421 energy efficiency measures installed
- Improved thermal comfort for residents
- Reduced household energy consumption and running costs
- Increased renewable electricity generation through Solar PV
- Contribution towards CHS Group's Net Zero 2050 objectives
- PAS-compliant retrofit delivery and quality assurance
- Strong resident satisfaction through proactive communication and engagement
“I’m very pleased with the work. It’s made a big difference.”
- Montreal Square Resident
Looking for a Partner For Your Next Retrofit Programme?
Whether you're planning a Social Housing Decarbonisation Fund (SHDF) project, delivering a Warm Homes programme or developing a housing decarbonisation strategy, Aran has the expertise and proven track record to help you achieve your goals.
We work closely with housing associations, local authorities and registered providers to deliver retrofit programmes that improve energy efficiency, reduce carbon emissions and create warmer, healthier homes. From stock assessments and project design to PAS 2035-compliant delivery, resident engagement and aftercare, our team manages every stage of the retrofit journey, ensuring lasting benefits for both landlords and tenants.