Birmingham City Council in the UK has appointed City Energy Network, Next Energy Solutions, and Golden Globe Merchants to assist in retrofitting more than 3,000 homes annually.

The retrofitting initiative focuses on energy-efficiency improvements in the city.

The scheme aims to minimise fuel bills and enhance living conditions in Birmingham.

The project will see the installation of new insulation, enhanced ventilation, and heating systems, along with solar panels.

These upgrades will primarily target privately owned homes, with some social housing also benefiting. The initiative focuses on homes in some of Birmingham's most deprived areas.

The council, along with the three appointed contractors, will form a partnership and leverage up to £45m ($57m) annually in private funding from the Energy Company Obligation (ECO) programme.

This programme, funded by large energy companies, supports energy-efficiency improvements in homes.

Birmingham City Council Housing and Homelessness cabinet member and councillor Jayne Francis said: “In addition to reducing fuel costs by an estimated £1.2m per year for residents, this project will play a significant role in reducing the city's carbon output.

"The improved homes will also contribute to healthier living conditions by creating warmer, drier homes, thereby alleviating the health impacts of dampness and mould.

"The next step will be to begin talking with local communities to carry out this work before the end of the year and to maximise benefits for residents this winter."

City Energy Network, Next Energy Solutions, and Golden Globe Merchants bring extensive experience to the project, according to the council.