Prima Group Launches £2.2 Million Retrofit Project with Gaia Energy to Enhance Merseyside Homes
Steven Gallagher (Gaia Energy) and Steve Wharton (Prima Group)
Prima Group has engaged Knowsley-based Gaia Energy to execute a £2.2 million energy efficiency retrofit across over 140 homes in Merseyside. This initiative is part of a two-year programme funded by the government’s Warm Homes Social Housing Fund.
The comprehensive project encompasses retrofit assessments, heating system improvements, solar panel installations, electrical upgrades, loft insulation, ventilation enhancements, and TrustMark registration. These interventions aim to elevate the Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) ratings of the properties to at least Band C.
Work has commenced on the scheme, which aligns with Prima Group’s ongoing dedication to sustainability, innovation, and community support. By collaborating with Gaia Energy, Prima Group seeks to enhance residents’ comfort, wellbeing, and affordability while lowering carbon emissions.
Steve Wharton, Executive Director of Homes and Communities at Prima Group, stated: “This initiative represents a significant step forward in improving the energy performance of our existing homes. Working with Gaia Energy enables us to combine local delivery expertise with the technical capability required to meet our sustainability objectives. As well as contributing to a greener future, these essential upgrades will make a real difference to residents, who will benefit from warmer homes, lower energy bills and enhanced comfort.”
Steven Gallagher, Joint Managing Director of Gaia Energy, commented: “We’re pleased to support Prima Group in delivering a targeted retrofit scheme that will provide measurable reductions in carbon emissions, warmer homes and long term savings on energy costs for residents. The project is being delivered end-to-end by Gaia Energy as a turnkey service, covering retrofit assessment, retrofit coordination and TrustMark certified installation, assuring full compliance throughout, with minimal disruption to residents.”
This announcement follows Gaia Energy’s recent inclusion in the Procure Plus framework for installing low and zero carbon technologies in social housing and public sector buildings. The company ranks among the top two contractors in North Wales and the top 15 in the North West.
Based at carbon neutral offices in Knowsley Business Park, Gaia Energy specialises in residential and commercial retrofit programmes, including energy efficiency upgrades under government-backed schemes such as Warm Homes SHDF, LAD Waves 1, 2 and 3, and HUG 1 and 2.
Prima Group manages over 2,700 homes across the Liverpool City Region, with some properties in North Wales. This retrofit programme underscores the housing association’s commitment to delivering safe, energy-efficient, and affordable homes for its residents.
