Boosting the impact of low-carbon technology through advice
31 March 2026
Report identifying gaps and solutions around providing impactful advice on low-carbon technologies in social housing.
William Grant Foundation
This report from Changeworks explores how advice is currently delivered to social housing tenants when low-carbon technologies, such as heat pumps and solar PV, are installed, and where improvements could help households get the most from them.
Supported through our Natural and Built Environment strand, the report suggests that without clear, tailored guidance and ongoing support, tenants may find it difficult to use unfamiliar systems. This can limit potential benefits, including energy savings, comfort and reduced bills.
It highlights that:
- advice provision is often variable, with differences in timing, format and quality
- one‑off information at the point of installation is rarely enough to support lasting behaviour change
- tenants may need more tailored, practical guidance to feel confident using new systems
- ongoing support can play an important role in helping households adapt and maximise benefits
Drawing on research with tenants, housing providers and delivery organisations, the report also sets out the current landscape of advice provision and where it could be strengthened.
It identifies practical opportunities to improve how advice is delivered across retrofit programmes, including better integration of advice into installation processes and more consistent follow‑up support.
For housing associations, local authorities and others working towards a fairer transition to clean energy, the report underlines the importance of combining technology upgrades with effective tenant engagement and advice.
Click the image above to read or download the report.
