Over 250,000 homes in Somerset are needing energy-efficient upgrade. Retrofit Somerset is driving a community-led, not-for-profit solution to meet this challenge through cutting carbon emissions and creating warmer, more sustainable homes. They hope to empower local communities to take control of their energy future by promoting whole-house retrofits that benefit everyone. Focussing on the ‘able to pay’ market, the project, funded by The MCS Foundation, was designed to not only generate significant interest in retrofitting but also develop a blueprint for local communities to replicate.

Phase 1: Building partnerships for change

Launched in 2023, the project brought together local councils, energy experts like the Somerset Climate Action Network, Somerset Council and town councils, community energy groups, Lendology and Somerset Independence Plus. The project fostered a shared commitment to scaling retrofitting across Somerset enabling local ambition to transform into collective action.

Phase 2: Smarter data for targeted solutions

In mid-2023, the project shifted focus to Somerset’s housing stock. Partnering with the Centre for Energy Equality, a bespoke data platform was developed to identify energy-inefficient homes. The Fairer Warmth app also launched, giving homeowners the tools to understand and act on retrofit options, empowering them to make informed decisions about their homes’ future.

Phase 3: Turning ideas into action

By late 2023, pilot projects with Lendology and C-Path were launched, including the Thermly heat pump platform, guiding customers through the process of installation. These pilots laid the groundwork for a scalable retrofit model. While challenges like contractor shortages emerged, they’ve created opportunities to expand local training and engagement, ensuring Somerset’s retrofit ambitions stay on track.

Phase 4: From plans to reality

A comprehensive business plan for the delivery of a retrofit support service was created and was one of the project’s major achievements. The plan proposes a street-by-street retrofit strategy, leveraging local expertise, contractor networks, and bulk purchasing power to reduce costs and increase uptake.

With The MCS Foundation’s backing, Somerset has completed the important groundwork for success. Now, more investment is crucial to expand contractor training and accelerate retrofits. Together, the local stakeholders are confident they can make Somerset a national leader in energy efficiency and help every community benefit from warmer, greener homes.