Bringing Affordable Warmth to Leeds' Communities

Thousands of homes in the region will soon be benefiting from lower fuel bills and improved energy efficiency thanks to an innovative partnership from gas distribution company Northern Gas Networks and community interest group, Community Energy Solutions.

The companies have teamed up to ensure that homes in the New Wortley area of Leeds, that have never been able to have a gas supply in the past, will soon be able to do so.

As part of Northern Gas Networks’ (NGNs) commitment to help the communities in which it works, the company has formed a partnership with Community Energy Solutions (CES), which will initially bring free gas connections to up to 380 homes, many of which are managed by West North West Homes Leeds. CES will also provide ‘whole house’ energy efficiency measures, free benefits advice and energy efficiency advice.

CES is a non-profit distributing organisation set up with core funding from Yorkshire Forward and the Government’s Department for Energy and Climate Change.

“This is the first of what we hope are many community-based projects that we can deliver in partnership with Community Energy Solutions,” explained NGN’s Chief Executive Basil Scarsella.

“Bringing affordable warmth to these communities is something that we see as vital, connecting them to the gas mains and being able to provide a clean and efficient alternative source of energy is a major step forward in achieving this.”

Project manager for West North West Homes Leeds is Stuart Roberts. He said: “We are thrilled NGN and CES are working with us to help our commitment on improving the homes and the lives of residents in New Wortley. This is a truly ground-breaking project and it’s great that the first project of its kind in the UK will be undertaken right here in the heart of Yorkshire.”

In addition to the gas connections, CES will also offer each home a package of energy efficiency measures such as cavity wall and loft insulation and energy efficiency advice. Householders will also be offered free benefits advice to ensure they are claiming everything that they are entitled to, thus maximising their income.

“Creating partnerships like this to be able to deliver real solutions for communities is exactly what Community Energy Solutions is about,” said CES Chief Executive, Chris Leek, “We are delighted to be working with NGN on this project which is the first of its kind.

“Providing viable solutions such as a connection to the gas main, coupled with key energy efficiency measures will undoubtedly help combat the rising levels of fuel poverty whilst also significantly reducing the amount of carbon emissions.”