Belsize Grove, London, NW3

Deep Retrofit

INTRODUCTION


Deep Retrofit (Residential Block) funded by the Social Housing Decarbonisation Fund (SHDF), delivering comprehensive energy efficiency improvements to 58 bedsits and communal areas in a conservation area. The £1,945,000 project for Camden Council was completed in June 2024 after 16 months of work, achieving significant energy savings while preserving architectural heritage.

58

Bedsits Upgraded

£1.95M

Project Cost

16

Month Duration

Project Overview

Key Installations

  • Electric storage heaters
  • MVHR ventilation systems
  • LED lighting
  • Modern hot water systems
  • Solar PV panels

Insulation Measures

  • External wall insulation (EWI)
  • Internal wall insulation (IWI)
  • Flat roof insulation
  • Bay roof insulation
  • Loft insulation

Additional Upgrades

  • Double glazing
  • Secondary glazing
  • casements
  • Upgraded doors
  • Extract fans

The primary goals were to improve energy efficiency while maintaining architectural integrity within the conservation area. The project focused on reducing moisture levels, enhancing indoor air quality, regulating temperatures, lowering CO2 emissions, and decreasing fossil fuel reliance. Key

stakeholders included Ameresco (principal contractor), Camden Council, and suppliers such as Aerogel, Rockwool, and Soltherm.

Project Challenges

Access Restrictions

Limited access for external wall insulation on one elevation required internal wall insulation in communal stairwells and shared bathrooms, demanding careful coordination with residents.

Regulatory Changes

Mid-project fire safety regulation changes

required upgrading MVHR ducting sleeves

from PVC to metal, which TF Energy

quickly identified and implemented

without major delays.

Structural Uncertainties

Lack of confirmed damp proof course

(DPC) level necessitated investigative

work to expose sections of external walls, preventing potential moisture-related complications.

Weather Conditions

Unpredictable London weather during external wall insulation phase required protective scaffolding and strategic scheduling to maintain project momentum.

TF Energy's Role and Achievements

At the Belsize Grove project, TF Energy proudly served as the Principal Contractor, undertaking full

responsibility for the project's planning, coordination, and seamless delivery as a comprehensive

turnkey solution. This involved meticulous oversight of every element, ensuring a smooth

progression from inception to completion. Our team effectively managed complex

interdependencies, liaising proactively with diverse stakeholders including designers, material

manufacturers, specialist subcontractors, residents, and the local authority.

Strategic Planning

Developed detailed project

schedules and resource

allocation plans, ensuring

all phases aligned with

conservation area requirements and resident needs.

Stakeholder Coordination

Maintained open communication channels with Camden Council,

Ameresco, residents, and suppliers to address concerns promptly and

facilitate cooperation.

Quality Assurance

Implemented rigorous quality control measures, overseeing on-site execution and material procurement to ensure adherence to industry

standards and specifications.

This comprehensive approach ensured that the entire programme was delivered efficiently and effectively, mitigating potential delays and maintaining high standards throughout. The project's

successful execution is a testament to TF Energy's expertise in navigating complex deep retrofit challenges within sensitive environments.


Our strong partnership with Soltherm, a leading provider of external insulation systems, was instrumental in the successful transformation of the buildings. This collaboration not only

delivered outstanding energy performance improvements but also garnered significant industry recognition.


The joint effort was distinguished with a Special Commendation at the prestigious National Energy Efficiency Awards 2024,

specifically within the highly competitive Insulation & Fabric Projects category. This accolade serves as a powerful endorsement of

the exceptional quality, innovative techniques, and profound positive impact of the work delivered at Belsize Grove.

Resident-Focused Approach

A dedicated Resident Liaison Officer addressed queries and coordinated work schedules. Pre- condition surveys documented existing installations, while mechanical and electrical

installations were scheduled together to minimise disruption to low-

income residents with health concerns.

Conservation-Sensitive Design

TF Energy developed bespoke solutions that reinstated lost decorative details (quoins and window mouldings) while complying with fire, building, and conservation regulations. These elements enhanced aesthetics while preventing cold bridging.

Performance Improvements

The upgrades delivered enhanced indoor comfort, reduced energy bills, lower carbon emissions, and improved thermal performance. All installations met PAS2035/PAS2030 standards, ensuring

compliance with industry benchmarks.

Industry Recognition & Future Impact

The project received a Highly Recommended Award at the National Energy Efficiency Awards and has been showcased across Camden Council as an exemplary case of energy efficiency in social housing.


This deep retrofit has garnered admiration from other London councils, setting a benchmark for similar large-scale initiatives in conservation areas. The methodologies and strategies provide a scalable model that balances energy efficiency with heritage preservation.


The project's success highlighted the importance of early stakeholder engagement, thorough pre- installation surveys, and maintaining flexibility to adapt to evolving regulations. These factors were crucial in preventing delays and ensuring full compliance. By continuing to integrate best practices and innovative solutions, TF Energy is well-positioned to lead future sustainable housing initiatives while maintaining the integrity of the built environment.