Skipton Building Society has launched a sustainability initiative, ‘The Big Retrofit’, to help the UK meet its 2050 net zero housing target.
The project marked a significant step in the Society’s long-term commitment to supporting homeowners in reducing their energy consumption and environmental impact.
The initiative centres on the retrofit of a typical 1930s detached house opposite Skipton’s head office on Regent Road.
The property was upgraded in autumn 2024 with a full suite of energy efficiency measures, including an air source heat pump, solar panels, battery storage, triple glazing, cavity wall insulation and enhanced ventilation.
The impact of the work was evaluated in partnership with Leeds Beckett University.
Key outcomes include a jump in the property’s Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) rating from a D to a B – surpassing the UK Government’s target of achieving a minimum of C by 2035.
The project also delivered a significant cut in carbon emissions and improved comfort levels, particularly during colder months.
Michaela Wright, group head of sustainability at Skipton Building Society, said: “The Big Retrofit is more than a report – it’s a call to action.
“We hope this helps homeowners, policymakers, and the housing industry move faster, smarter, and more affordably toward a low-carbon future.”
The project report, also informed by the University of Leeds, made four policy recommendations for Government: reaffirm the UK’s net-zero 2050 commitment to maintain market confidence; provide clear retrofit guidance for homeowners, not just landlords; extend the 0% VAT rate on energy-saving home improvements beyond 2027; and rebalance electricity pricing to make low-carbon heating more cost-effective.
Garry Felgate, chief executive of The MCS Foundation, said: “This builds on our research showing 43% of homeowners plan to improve their property’s energy efficiency but are concerned about cost.
“It’s encouraging to see Skipton, a lender, calling for supportive policy to make retrofitting more affordable and widespread.”
Skipton is offering support for homeowners through its green additional borrowing product and free EPC Plus assessments, delivered via Vibrant Energy Matters Ltd, a Skipton Group company.
These reports aim to help members identify energy efficiency improvements tailored to their homes.
