The National Energy Foundation (NEF) has launched the UK’s first verification scheme for home retrofits
The SuperHomes Network and Rating Scheme has been redeveloped as part of NEF’s mission to promote sustainable housing and to reduce greenhouse gas emissions from existing UK properties.
NEF is aiming to create one million SuperHomes by 2030.
To achieve this mission, the SuperHomes team has developed a network of individuals, organisations and partners to work alongside property owners to reach SuperHomes status.
The SuperHomes Network has been revamped to give members access to knowledge about home retrofit, energy efficiency, renewable energy and home comfort as well as access to free events and workshops.
Members will be able share retrofit knowledge, resources and best practice to deliver high performing homes whether they be a homeowner, landlord, professional or supplier to the industry.
‘Inspiring change and measuring success’
Sandra Hayes, director of development at the National Energy Foundation, said: “We’re excited to be relaunching the SuperHomes project 13 years after it was initially developed.
“During this time, our understanding of the impact of housing on the environment has greatly increased and the SuperHomes Network and Rating Scheme are key to inspiring change and measuring success in the decarbonisation of UK housing.”
The newly developed SuperHomes Rating Scheme monitors and evaluates homes against three criteria – carbon dioxide emissions per square metre, residual (regulated) carbon dioxide emissions and health and comfort.
After 12 months of monitoring, homes are awarded a star rating of between one to five, with five being a zero-carbon retrofit.
Funding for the redevelopment of the SuperHomes Rating Scheme was provided by the MCS Charitable Foundation and Innovate UK.