Trust Housing Association (THA), Arran's largest social housing provider, has recently completed two major packages of improvement works to enhance the energy efficiency of its properties.

91 homes have been fitted with new energy-efficient double-glazed windows and doors, while 57 homes have undergone multi-measure upgrades, including insulation, solar panels, battery storage, ventilation systems, and zero-emissions heating systems.

"The multi-measure energy efficiency works have been delivered in partnership with award-winning North Ayrshire-based energy efficiency specialist, Green Home Systems," Trust Housing Association stated.

The installation of external batteries in each home allows residents to maximize the benefits of energy generated from their new solar panels, further reducing energy bills.

Trust Housing Association has announced plans for further investment in energy efficiency upgrades in 2025, demonstrating a commitment to improving the sustainability and affordability of their properties for tenants.

Following the success of the first phase, Trust has announced a second phase, this time covering over 200 homes, which commenced in late 2024, and is due to complete in Spring 2025. Green Homes Systems have also been awarded this second contract, which once completed, will see most of Trust's 293 customers on the island benefitting from this investment.

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Meanwhile, Sidey Solutions Limited have now completed the installation of new PVC-U windows and doors to 91 homes across the island in the towns and villages of Brodick, Whiting Bay, Lamlash, Shiskine, Corrie and Kilmory.

As a result of these works, Trust will have secured over £80k through contractual community benefits, which will help bolster their ‘Hardship Fund'. The Trust Hardship Fund was put place in 2023 to help support customers who require financial support through the current cost of living crisis. The fund can be accessed by Trust customers most in need to help with the cost of food, utility bills and other essential household expenses. Customers who are in financial difficulty can find out more on how to access the fund by contacting their new Isle of Arran Customer Partner, Sandra McIlroy.

Jackie McIntosh Director of Assets & Sustainability, said: "We are delighted to have completed these two major packages of works across the island. These two projects are already proving their benefit to our customers on Arran making our customer's homes warmer and easier to heat. The feedback from customers in phase one has been incredible and we are keen to extend the benefits of this investment to as many of our customers as possible.

"The additional money generated for our Hardship fund from these contracts will also provide much needed additional financial support to many Trust customers on the island impacted by the ongoing cost of living crisis."

Alastair Macphie, Managing Director of Green Home Systems, said: "The completion of this initial phase of energy efficiency works is a major milestone in our shared commitment to reducing fuel poverty and improving energy efficiency for residents across Arran. We are honoured to continue our partnership with Trust for this exciting new phase. Our work on Arran exemplifies the real difference that can be made when organisations unite to address fuel poverty and work towards a greener future.

"The new phase of the Arran Project aligns with GHS's ongoing mission to support energy transition initiatives across Scotland."

Steve Hardy, Joint Managing Director of Sidey Group said: "We have enjoyed a long and successful partnership with Trust and are delighted to have completed the window and door replacement works on the Isle of Arran as part of Trust's energy efficiency investment programme. Sidey is focussed on working with our customers to provide energy efficient products and solutions, resulting in a better quality of life and a more sustainable way of living.

"These works will help achieve this goal, particularly considering the global uncertainty in energy markets and by working in partnership with Trust we can also help reduce fuel poverty for their tenants."