One of the UK's longest established renewables companies, Dulas Ltd, has been awarded a £4.3m contract by housing association First Wessex to install solar PV technology on up to 1,000 of its affordable homes across the south of England.
The solar panel installation will deliver a combined output of 2.5 MW and is expected to save First Wessex tenants, many of whom are at risk of fuel poverty, between £75 and £150 a year in energy bills. The installation will deliver approximately 1,250 tonnes of annual carbon savings and is expected to have repaid the initial investment within 12 years.
Sanjay Bowry, Chief Executive Officer at Dulas said: "We are delighted to be collaborating with First Wessex on what will become one of the largest solar sustainability initiatives in the UK housing sector. By installing solar technology on up to 1,000 of its homes, First Wessex is effectively safeguarding many of its tenants against future energy price hikes and we are excited to be working with them to deliver a project which will bring so many benefits to so many people."
In addition to the environmental and financial benefits of the scheme, the contract will also deliver social and community benefits by creating a number of employment opportunities for local youngsters who are not in education, employment or training. Dulas will also establish a physical presence in the First Wessex area of operations to deliver the two-year contract, which is expected to begin in November.
Speaking of the partnership, Paul Ciniglio, Sustainability and Asset Strategist at First Wessex, said: "As a housing association we are committed to managing our impact on the environment and to producing sustainable housing stock that is accessible, inclusive and beneficial for all. We have a responsibility to focus on affordable warmth and tackle instances of fuel poverty and we are delighted to be working with Dulas to deliver technology which will significantly reduce our tenants' fuel bills and lessen our carbon footprint.
"Dulas has a strong track record of delivering innovative residential and commercial solar installations and its tender demonstrated a shared commitment to sustainability, quality and overall value for money."
With over 30 years' experience at the forefront of the renewables industry, Dulas has a strong track-record of delivering innovative renewable solutions for clients across Wales and beyond. Dulas operates in all areas of the supply chain from feasibility and resource assessment through to installation, project management and operation and maintenance.
