British Gas Chooses Sero for Net Zero Homes Project in Wales

British Gas has chosen the net zero specialist Sero to oversee retrofit coordination services for approximately 1,500 homes annually in Wales over an initial three-year period.

Headquartered in Cardiff, Sero will develop a comprehensive program of decarbonization works for these homes, adhering to the PAS2035 retrofitting standard. This initiative includes installing low carbon technologies such as insulation, low carbon heating systems, and renewable energy technologies. Sero will oversee the entire project lifecycle, coordinating activities among British Gas’ retrofit assessors and installers.

The partnership follows British Gas securing a £200 million, seven-year contract from the Welsh government to implement its Warm Homes Programme. This initiative aims to combat fuel poverty and contribute to the government’s goal of achieving net zero emissions by 2050.

Ross Kirwan, NEST operations manager at British Gas, expressed confidence in Sero’s expertise in managing large-scale retrofitting projects, underscoring their selection as a key partner. Kirwan emphasized British Gas’ commitment to supporting Wales’ net zero targets and delivering sustainable solutions to residents.

Andy Sutton, co-founder and chief innovation officer of Sero, highlighted their enthusiasm for collaborating with British Gas to decarbonize homes across Wales. Drawing on their experience in managing complex retrofit programs, Sutton emphasized their goal of achieving lower energy costs and improved home comfort for residents.

Under the agreement, Sero will provide British Gas with Improvement Options Evaluations (IOE) and Medium Term Improvement Plans (MTIP), outlining necessary improvement measures and the project pathway for each property. British Gas will review these plans with residents, ensuring transparency and addressing their energy efficiency needs.

The Warm Homes Programme by the Welsh government aims to reduce emissions from residential housing, promote sustainable Welsh materials, and bolster local skills and employment. Leveraging insights from previous retrofitting initiatives, including their collaboration with social landlords on over 1,700 homes, Sero aims to optimize outcomes and support Wales’ sustainability goals.