Flagship HomeJean Roberts

Royal Borough of Kensington and Chelsea

Why - demographics

• Type of properties

• Tenure

• Transient population

• Fuel poverty

Why – demographics (cont)

• Often seen as rich borough but 2 wards in 10% most deprived

• These were drivers behind the project

Flagship Home

A 19th century house and 21st century energy efficiency technologies combine to deliver reduced carbon emissions, lower fuel bills and affordable housing in the heart of London

Aim

• Refurbish an existing HMO to high standards of energy efficiency

• Provide affordable accommodation

• Demonstrate the project to other landlords

The Project

• Typical Victorian terrace property in Knightsbridge

• Conservation area but not listed

The project

• In poor state of repair

The Project

• Failed to meet RBKCs current Fitness Standards

The Project

• Applied for EST Innovation Funding

• Feasibility study

• Discussions agreement with landlord

Feasibility Study

• Aim

– To show private landlords it is possible to refurbish a building in a practical, cost effective way which reduces energy consumption and could save money in the long term.

Feasibility study - scenarios

• Minimum measures and costs to meet Standards

• Incorporating energy efficiency measures and additional costs

• Cost effectiveness

Feasibility study – cost effectiveness• New roof extension

• Self contained basement flat

• Funding (EEC, local authority)

• Solar hot water heating

Technology - measures

• Measures were chosen that would benefit landlords most in terms of saving money and being easy to maintain

• Package of measures that took an integrated approach to:

– Reduced heat losses;– Provide efficient, controllable heating;

Technology – fabric measures

• Insulated dry lining

• Roof insulation

• Glazing

• Basement floor

Technology – fabric measures

– Heating and hot water

– Mechanical ventilation with heat recovery

– Lights and appliances

Outcomes

• Refurbishment will significantly reduce energy consumption and CO2 emissions eg:

– Energy costs expected to fall by 67%– CO2 emissions expected to be cut by 63%– NHER increase from 3.0 to 9.0

Affordable Housing

• HMO contains 19 bedsits

• Accommodation for 36 tenants

• Four units let to key workers on affordable rents

Marketing Campaign

• Events – London Landlords’ Day

• Media (Guardian, Newsnight)

• Open days at house– Launch– Professionals– Residents– Schools

EST case study

• Making private rented housing energy efficient – The Flagship Home case study (CE192)

– http://www.rbkc.gov.uk/flagshiphome/flagshiptourgeneral/flagship_interactive_tour.asp

Contact details

Jean Roberts

Private Sector Energy Officer

Royal Borough of Kensington and Chelsea

Tel: 020 7341 5673

E-mail: jean.roberts@rbkc.gov.uk