With the current raft of energy efficiency funding and forthcoming Green Deal, we need to ensure the right retrofit solutions are chosen for properties in Wales.

Wales has the oldest building stock in the UK with current figures estimating that 80% of the 2050 building stock is here now.  Wales also has the largest proportion of traditional homes in UK.  To achieve the climate change targets we will need to refurbish and retrofit in the region of 33,000 homes per year to an EPC (energy performance certificate) rating of C.

This work could inject around £6 billion into the economy and our small building firms are ideally placed to deliver, however we need to be sure that what is done is appropriate.  We need to be delivering the right solutions, of a high quality when the conditions are most favourable. 

CEW with Cadw are driving the debate and seeking to raise awareness with the industry via a series of events and articles such as in the Western Mail before Christmas, our blogs and in Building magazine this month.

This is a huge opportunity for Wales to improve the energy performance of its housing stock and to boost the local economy – but we have to ensure it is right.

Please contact Emma Thomas Director, Sustainability Programme for further information.