In the heart of England’s social housing sector, a complex web of challenges is hindering the progress of retrofitting efforts, according to new research published in the journal *Buildings & Cities* (which translates to *Cities and Buildings*). The study, led by Hannah Charles from the Geography Department at the University of Manchester, sheds light on the intricate barriers that housing associations (HAs) face in their quest to improve energy efficiency and reduce energy vulnerability among low-income tenants.
Charles and her team conducted an organisational ethnography of a housing association in north-west England and interviewed 21 experts to uncover the key themes impeding retrofit goals. The findings reveal a sector grappling with financial constraints, fragmented provision, and insufficient government support.
“Housing associations are caught in a cycle of boom and bust due to inconsistent government funding,” Charles explains. “This unpredictability limits the availability of trained contractors and hampers progress.” The study highlights that HAs rely heavily on private finance to deliver retrofit works, which can influence the type and quality of improvements made to homes.
One of the most pressing issues is the high cost of electricity, which can deter tenants from using newly installed electric heating systems, especially when prices soar. This not only undermines the intended benefits of retrofitting but also raises concerns about energy justice and the equitable distribution of energy costs.
The research underscores the need for clear policies and sustained investment in retrofit technologies to stabilise the sector and support contractor upskilling. “Long-term, consistent funding is crucial for developing the retrofit market,” Charles emphasises. “Without it, scaling up retrofits remains a significant challenge.”
The implications of this research extend beyond England, offering valuable insights for other neoliberal contexts striving to achieve social housing retrofit goals. As the energy sector continues to evolve, the findings call for a more holistic approach to retrofitting, one that addresses financial constraints, policy inconsistencies, and the need for skilled labour.
For the energy sector, this research highlights the commercial potential in developing innovative retrofit technologies and solutions tailored to the unique challenges of social housing. By investing in this area, companies can not only contribute to energy efficiency goals but also tap into a growing market with significant social and environmental impacts.
As the world grapples with climate change and energy vulnerability, the lessons from England’s social housing sector offer a compelling case for rethinking retrofit strategies. With sustained investment and targeted policies, the sector can overcome its current barriers and pave the way for a more energy-efficient and equitable future.