How well do tenants understand the new technologies being installed in their homes—and what does this mean for your retrofit outcomes?
A new study funded by the William Grant Foundation and delivered by Changeworks sheds light on the reality of energy advice in Scotland’s social housing sector, and why strengthening it could be one of the highest‑impact steps landlords can take.
Click here to attend the webinar and read the full report: Boosting the impact of low-carbon technology through advice
Why this matters now
With many social‑rented homes still requiring low‑carbon heating upgrades and lots suitable for solar PV, the work to deliver retrofit at scale continues. Yet the research finds that even the best‑designed retrofit programme can fall short if tenants aren’t confident using the systems installed.
What the research uncovered
The study reveals that:
- Advice provision is highly variable—with few currently offering support before, during and after installation.
- Tenants often feel unprepared, tenants would benefit from clearer, more practical guidance to help them feel prepared and comfortable using new technologies.
- Misunderstanding leads to inefficient use, higher bills, and unnecessary call‑outs.
- Funding gaps and unclear roles between landlords, installers, and advice organisations make consistent delivery difficult.
Crucially, the research shows that when tenants receive simple, tailored guidance—especially face‑to‑face—they’re more confident, more satisfied, and more likely to use low‑carbon technologies effectively.
Opportunities for the sector
The research highlights clear, achievable steps that social landlords can take immediately, including how to:
- Embed advice across the whole retrofit journey.
- Strengthen installer handovers.
- Promote behaviour change.
Why you should read the full report
If you’re planning—or currently delivering—retrofit projects, this research offers practical guidance, evidence‑based recommendations, and a roadmap for delivering advice that works for tenants. To find out more, click here to attend the webinar on 23rd March and read the report.
