Our properties
Across our portfolio of over 6,700 rental homes, 70.4% are rated energy efficiency Band B or higher, and energy efficiency works are programmed into our annual repairs programme. Our ambition is for all new homes to have an energy efficiency rating of Band B or better, an aim set out in our development strategy.
Our 23/24 energy efficiency figures at a glance:
Invested in energy efficiency works to existing homes
Average new build SAP rating
Rental homes rated Band B and above for energy efficiency
New homes with air source heat pumps
New development
For all new build properties, we adopt a ‘fabric first’ approach to achieving sustainability, through high insulation and air tightness. Where possible our land-led developments – where Hightown leads on the construction – aim to meet the proposed Future Homes Standard (FHS) specification that will become mandatory in 2025. The FHS aims to decarbonise new homes by focusing on tighter building fabric standards, improving heating, hot water systems and reducing heat waste, including using air source heat pumps. Meanwhile, we have continued to explore ways to meet the FHS through design and build package deals, for example through partnering with contractors using modern methods of construction.
Trialling sustainable energy solutions
2023/24 was a milestone year for Hightown in terms of delivering new homes with low carbon energy systems; 30% of new homes were constructed with air source heat pumps, which use about three times less energy to generate the same amount of heat as a traditional oil or gas boiler. Looking ahead, we remain committed to installing low carbon energy systems on Hightown-led developments and to prioritising section 106 schemes offering sustainable energy solutions.
Reducing energy consumption at our central offices
All the fluorescent light tubes at our central offices have been replaced with environmentally friendly LED tubes, saving an estimated 78% in energy consumption and 9.75 tonnes of CO2 annually, equivalent to five cars driving on petrol for a year.
Our central offices already generate renewable energy through photovoltaic (PV) roof panels; in the 12 years since installation, these have saved 157 tonnes of CO2 emissions.
Educating customers
We continue to encourage customers to consider their impact on the environment via regular communications on our website and through our resident newsletter. Our recent resident involvement events have focused on sustainability, with customers receiving information and advice on various environmental topics, including waste awareness and recycling, green volunteering opportunities and the ‘Energy Doctor’ energy advice scheme.
