At ateb, we believe everyone deserves a home that’s comfortable, warm, and energy-efficient. That’s why we’ve been working hard to improve the quality of our homes and make a real difference in our communities. One of the ways we’re doing this is through our Optimised Retrofit Programme – a three-year project focused on future-proofing homes, reducing carbon footprints, and helping customers save on energy costs.

In 2024, we completed work on 68 homes, with Preseli Court being the third and final site of the year. Seven properties there benefitted from External Wall Insulation (EWI) and Solar PV panels, helping ateb customers enjoy more comfortable homes and lower energy bills.

But don’t just take our word for it – here’s what one of our customers had to say.

Real Stories, Real Impact

Meet Roger from Preseli Court

Roger lives at Preseli Court and kindly shared his experience of having the work done, while managing his visual impairment.

“Some of the benefits I’ve noticed are that I no longer get drafts through my windows, and the central heating is much more effective. My living room is lovely and warm, and the rest of the house is comfortable too. Overall, it’s a lot warmer inside.”

Roger told us that while the solar panel installation was smooth and straightforward, the insulation work was a little noisier and messier – but the team made sure to look out for him.

“The lads doing the work were great. They were always polite, respectful of my property, and very aware of my situation. They made sure to say hello and warned me if there were any hazards. They were also meticulous about cleaning up afterwards.”

Of course, there were challenges.

“The biggest issue was the noise, and the ‘Pembrokeshire Promise’,” Roger joked. “If they said they were coming one day, sometimes they didn’t! But looking back, I understand they had to juggle jobs and be flexible. Considering how much work they did and how long it took, it was all well worth it.”

And would Roger recommend it?

“Absolutely. It’s a little inconvenient for a short time, but the benefits far outweigh the negatives. You’ve got to think about the future, how much you’ll save on energy over the next few years. Once the work is done, it’s all positive. Well worth it!”

Roger was so positive, he even offered to speak to anyone unsure about having the work done (what a gent!). We won’t be giving out his number, but we’re grateful to Roger for sharing his experience.

How Our Retrofit Programme is Making a Difference

Here’s what’s been achieved through this important investment in our homes and communities:

✨ Improved Energy Efficiency
With External Wall Insulation, homes lose less heat in winter and stay cooler in summer, helping customers stay comfortable all year round while using less energy.

🌍 Better for the Environment
Lower energy use means a reduced carbon footprint. This work supports our commitment to sustainability and tackling climate change.

💰 Lower Energy Costs
More efficient homes need less heating, which can help keep energy bills more manageable, especially when every penny counts.

🏡 A Fresh New Look
As well as making homes warmer and more efficient, EWI gives buildings a clean, modern finish, benefiting residents and brightening our communities.

🌞 Renewable Solar Energy
With Solar PV panels installed, residents can harness clean energy from the sun, reducing reliance on the grid and cutting electricity costs.

🏘️ Stronger Communities
By investing in our homes, we’re investing in people, creating homes where individuals and families can feel safe, secure, and supported.

Looking Ahead

We’re proud of what we’ve achieved so far. In 2024, 68 homes benefitted from our Optimised Retrofit Programme. But we’re not stopping there! Work is already underway in Solva, with plans to improve another 50 homes in 2025.

This is all part of our mission to future-proof our homes, making sure they meet the Welsh Housing Quality Standard, with a SAP rating of at least 75 for all managed properties.

At ateb, we’re not just providing roofs over people’s heads, we’re building homes where people can thrive.

Published: 14/03/2025