Retrofit Success Stories: Cutting fuel costs with low- carbon heating in rural North Yorkshire
Introduction
This Retrofit Success Stories case study showcases Broadacres, a housing association based in Northallerton managing around 7,000 homes across rural North Yorkshire, is helping residents cut fuel costs and lower carbon emissions through low‑carbon heating upgrades. Supported by £2.43 million in Wave 2.1 funding from the Tees Valley Combined Authority, Broadacres partnered with PH Jones to deliver insulation, solar PV, and heat pumps to homes previously reliant on inefficient solid‑fuel systems.
Published: February 2026
Contents
Retrofit Success Stories: Cutting fuel costs with low- carbon heating in rural North Yorkshire
One beneficiary is Mr. Carr, who replaced his old coal heating with a new heat pump, solar panels, and improved insulation. He described his home as much warmer and quieter, with heating costs now just £4–£5 per week. He is also earning money by exporting surplus electricity back to the grid.
“People of our generation are naturally wary of change, so we were a little reluctant at first. We weren’t sure how disruptive the work would be or whether the house would still feel warm. But we decided to go ahead, and it’s been the best thing we’ve done. The system is easy to use, the house is always warm, and it now only costs us around £4-£5 a week to heat the whole home.”
This case study highlights how these upgrades are improving comfort, cutting bills, and supporting the transition to low‑carbon heating in rural communities.
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