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Effective support tool for housing companies to stimulate tenants reducing energy

by | Sep 25, 2017

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TRIME was launched in September 2014 and completed in autumn 2017. It was developed by seven social housing organisations, a university, behavioural research company and technology company all based in the EU. TRIME was a project that was set up to improve energy saving actions amongst social housing tenants who often have limited financial resources. The project designed an energy saving advice model based on creating a network of tenants that volunteered to be Energy Ambassadors who then support their neighbours to save energy.

The aims of the TRIME project were:
● To reach residents through the energy saving advice model using resident Energy Ambassadors
● To reach residents through promoting the Challenge
● To measure the energy saved by residents

The project found the main benefits of delivering an energy saving advice model are:
● Increased social interaction between tenants and neighbouring households
● Carbon reduction
● Tenants get to save some money
● Supports the environmental goals of social housing organisations

The project is now complete and a guide to setting up an energy saving advice model has been developed. The guide sets out learning and results from the project.
‘Trias Energetica’ is based on a model developed by the Delft University of Technology to act as
a guide when pursuing energy sustainability in the building sector. The Trias Energetica model considers that energy savings from buildings have to come first on the path to environmental protection. The model outlines 3 elements that need to be addressed in order to lower energy consumption:
– Reduce energy demand
–  Use renewable energy where possible
–  Efficient use of fossil fuel

Supporting the reduction of carbon emissions;
– Alleviating some of the poverty social housing tenants experience through helping change their energy consumption behaviour. This in turn can potentially lead to lower bills.
–  Increasing commitment within your own organisation to environmental sustainability.
– Helping tenants to benefit from increased social interaction with their neighbours. The model helped make them feel more engaged in their neighbourhoods and provided a way for them to build relationships with people in their local areas.

Inspire, colaborate and work together?

 

As member or associate of EFL you get entrance to a unique network in the housing sector, offering opportunities for cooperation and doing business. Housing companies, both in the social housing and private sector can sign up as a member. Companies in the chain of value creation within the housing industry and development can apply for an asscoiated partnership. EFL is also open for scientific institutes and public organisations.

Apply to be a member