Member Article

Gentoo and EDF Energy wrap up ECO scheme

An energy efficiency scheme set to save 100 homes in Sunderland hundreds of pounds a year on their energy bills is now complete, thanks to Gentoo and EDF Energy.

The estate in Springwell has received external wall insulation and some homes have received double glazed windows, enhancing their warmth and comfort and reducing their energy bills. The project has been funded by EDF Energy as part of their commitment to energy efficiency.

This scheme was initially in the public spotlight during November 2013 after the Energy Company Obligation (ECO) funding originally allocated to the scheme was withdrawn by another supplier just two weeks before the scheme was due to commence on site, as a result of proposed reductions to the ECO obligation nationwide.

Gentoo continued to find an alternative source of funding and, thanks to a strong working relationship with EDF Energy, were able to secure the funding required to make the scheme go ahead in early January.

Fred and Gladys Lamb, who have received this work said: “Our home was hard to heat and we were forced to budget how much we spend on our energy bill because it’s so expensive. We are absolutely delighted with the work that has been done. We can’t thank Gentoo and EDF Energy enough for bringing the scheme to life.”

Robin Melvin, Head of Low Carbon Product Design at EDF Energy, said: “We are delighted to have worked with Gentoo to bring energy saving measures to the area of Springwell. They will help residents become more fuel efficient, reduce carbon emissions and save money on their energy bills.”

Sally Hancox, Director of Gentoo Green said: “It was a major blow when the ECO funding was withdrawn last November as it left some of the coldest homes in Sunderland unable to benefit from much needed insulation. I am delighted that our efforts resulted in the scheme being revived and, thanks to the team coming together, we were able to achieve what we set out to do; provide our customers with warmer, more energy efficient homes.”

Managing Director of Gentoo Construction, Allan Thompson, said: “We are very pleased with the results of this scheme – delivering a programme of this type over the winter months, especially given the timeframes involved, is challenging but we were able to deliver to the highest quality and on time. We are proud to receive the excellent feedback we have been given by our funding partners and customers alike and will continue to build on these strong relationships”

This was posted in Bdaily's Members' News section by Laura Facey .