Phase 1

Print version of Relish™ phase 1 page [http://www.relish.org/phase1.html]

By following Relish™ principles the phase 1 pilot demonstrated that the equivalent of 4 weeks' rent can be released for families to spend on other things, as well as making impressive carbon emissions savings. If rolled out across a large portfolio of properties, we believe this could have a profound effect on the social housing sector and beyond.

Lessons learned

Relish™ phase 1 pilot demonstrated that works combined with education clearly delivers the best financial and environmental savings. During the pilot year, the property that received Relish™ works and monthly education advice achieved a significant saving of £368 on their combined annual gas and electricity bill.

The key lessons from phase 1:

1. Benefits of energy education.
2. Low cost can still mean high achieving!
3. Energy modelling isnt perfect.
4. Reducing gas consumption through education alone is difficult.
5. Better energy habits reduce electricity bills.
6. Carbon emissions can be reduced through education alone.
7. The Relish™ principles help us make the right decisions.

Relish™ phase 1 has provided an excellent insight into the impact of low-cost low carbon refurbishment works to occupied properties and the effectiveness that education and advice can have on reducing residents energy use. Download our phase 1 report for more information.

Our phase 1 findings are based on results from a small sample size and in phase 2 we are applying all that we’ve learned to a larger scale programme.