The partnership focuses on retrofitting homes to improve thermal efficiency and reduce energy bills for tenants.

Work has commenced in Pennyburn, Kilwinning. Thirty properties have already had new windows and doors installed. Phase two will see the installation of new roofs and solar panels, as well as both external and cavity wall insulation. These enhancements are designed to significantly reduce energy consumption and support Scotland’s net zero targets.

This latest project follows the award-winning eco improvement works to almost 300 Riverside Scotland homes in Dumfries in partnership with Union Technical. This project saw Riverside Scotland named Housing Association of the Year at the 2024 Scotland Energy Efficiency Awards.

Founded 11 years ago, Union Technical specialises in energy services – providing housing associations, tenants, and private homeowners with retrofitting measures designed to make homes warmer, more sustainable, and cheaper to heat. The firm has also developed its own whole-house, patented Smarter Homes approach, creating a new way to upgrade homes.

This partnership highlights the commitment of both organisations to creating more sustainable and comfortable living environments for tenants. The work is being welcomed by the community, who are looking forward to seeing properties upgraded and looking more modern. Recent neighbourhood surveys have highlighted tenants’ priorities: investment in property improvements and increased energy efficiency.

Riverside Scotland tenant Eileen Kerr, who has lived in her home for 25 years, welcomes the upgrades. “I’m absolutely delighted with my new windows and doors—they’ve really transformed the look and feel of my home,” she said. “It already feels warmer and more comfortable, and I’m looking forward to seeing how it affects my energy bills over the coming months. I’m excited about the next phase of upgrades!”

Heather Duff, head of asset and sustainability at Riverside Scotland, said: “We are delighted to be partnering with Union Technical on this important investment in our stock. Their expertise and commitment to energy efficiency align perfectly with our goals at Riverside Scotland. Together, we are making significant strides in improving the comfort and sustainability of our homes, ensuring our tenants benefit from lower energy costs and a healthier living environment.”

Michael Sweeney, Union Technical co-founder and director, added: “Building on the success of the Dumfries project, we’re proud to be working with Riverside Scotland as their retrofit partner with works beginning to deliver a similar initiative across Ayrshire. It has been rewarding to see the positive response from the Pennyburn community already, who are looking forward to seeing the benefits of the home upgrades and energy-saving improvements.

“At the heart of our work is a commitment to making homes more comfortable and energy-efficient. We’re focused on addressing the cost-of-living challenges faced by households across Scotland while supporting our clients to achieve their net-zero goals.”