Major £1.2million eco project bringing solar power to hundreds of homes

We're once again partnering with GEC Power Ltd to deliver a second stage of green upgrades, following the success of the first in Middlesbrough earlier this year.

The latest phase of the work builds on that success and will see solar panels installed on a wider range of bungalows, flats and houses across the region.

Up to 300 homes could benefit from the investment, funded through the government’s ECO4 scheme, which supports energy efficiency upgrades for homes with an Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) rating of D.

The improvements will help residents cut their energy use, help to lower household bills and reduce carbon emissions. 

For many customers the benefits are already clear. Stuart and Chris Cross were the first to receive solar panels during phase one. They’ve lived in their home on Gleneagles Court for around four years and since the solar panels were installed, they’ve seen their energy bills cut in half. 

Chris said: “It’s made such a difference. Our bills are much lower and it’s good to know we’re helping the environment too.”

With the panels only taking around one day to install, there’s minimal disruption to customers.

Asset optimisation director Rich Thomas said: “We’re proud to be delivering the next phase of this investment, which we know will make a difference for hundreds of customers across the North East and Yorkshire. 

“By investing in greener technology, we’re helping our customers live more comfortably in their homes that are warmer, more energy efficient and more affordable to run.”

GEC’s operations director Lisa Hodges said : “We’re proud to be continuing our partnership with Thirteen on this major ECO4 investment. We’re working closely together to deliver high quality solar installations with minimal disruption to residents, ensuring each system provides immediate savings and long-term benefits.

“This programme not only helps households reduce energy bills and carbon emissions but also demonstrates the positive impact that collaboration between housing providers and renewable specialists can achieve in creating more sustainable communities.”

The work, which is due to be complete by the end of the year is part of Thirteen’s wider plans to improve the energy efficiency of its homes, with a goal to bring every property up to at least an Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) rating of C by 2030.