Housing association in £1.4 million energy work

A housing association has carried out £1.4 million upgrades to bolster energy efficiency across hundreds of properties.

Gentoo has fitted solar panels, smart controls, improved cavity wall insulation and enhanced radiator valves and ventilation in more than 400 homes.

Bosses at the Sunderland-headquartered operator say the work will “help make homes warmer, healthier and cheaper to run”.

The project was carried out alongside Houghton-le-Spring-based heating and renewables installation firm 0800 Repair, which sourced £1 million for the revamp through grant applications to schemes including the Energy Company Obligation.

Gentoo – which provides homes for more than 60,000 people in Sunderland – added £400,000 to support a number of properties.

Peter Akers, Gentoo director of asset and sustainability, said: “This programme represents a significant investment in our homes and customers.

“This work will help tackle fuel poverty while supporting our long‑term sustainability ambitions and reducing environmental impact.”

Michael Pallister, 0800 Repair operations director, added: “We are delighted to partner with Gentoo and bring £1 million of external funding to enable them to deliver these vital energy efficiency measures.

“We are looking forward to continuing this great partnership.”

The work comes after Gentoo unveiled a vehicle investment it says will accelerate its green credentials.

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