Funded in part by Bristol City Council’s green investment programme, the Bristol Climate Action Investment, Bristol City Leap is set to begin renewable energy upgrades at three council-owned buildings: Belbrook Children’s Respite Unit, Ridingleaze House and Symes House. The improvements are designed to enhance energy efficiency, reduce carbon emissions and lower energy bills.

Following the successful launch of the Bristol Climate Action Investment in 2025, the council raised £2 million thanks to wide support from residents and businesses keen to invest in a greener future for the city.

The work will be carried out by Bristol City Leap, powered by Ameresco UK, who will replace existing fossil-fuelled heating systems with new air source heat pumps at all three sites. At Belbrook Children’s Respite Unit, a children’s short break service that supports disabled children and their families, the works will provide a broader package of improvements, including a new rooftop array of solar panels, upgraded LED lighting and additional loft insulation alongside the heating upgrade. The measures will reduce bills and carbon emissions and improve energy efficiency, keeping warmth in to create a more comfortable environment for service users and staff.

At Ridingleaze House and Symes House, both used by Bristol City Council’s Children and Young People Services, the works will replace ageing fossil-fuel boiler systems with low-carbon air source heat pumps and associated upgrades to the pipes, radiators and controls.

The three sites were prioritised because they are among the top 30 carbon emitters in Bristol City Council’s corporate estate and were identified as suitable for decarbonisation through the Public Sector Decarbonisation Scheme (PSDS). The project is being supported by Bristol City Council’s Decarbonisation Fund and the Government’s PSDS funding.

Together, the upgrades are expected to save an estimated 28 tonnes of CO2e each year, roughly the same as taking around 19 average petrol cars off the road for a year, while cutting energy use by 154,008kWh, enough to power around 57 typical UK homes for a year.

Reducing reliance on fossil fuels and improving energy resilience through upgrading ageing energy infrastructure is increasingly important to ensure that key public buildings can continue to operate reliably, efficiently and cost-effectively in the years ahead. By upgrading ageing heating systems and improving overall building performance, the council can reduce its exposure to volatile energy costs, lower reliance on fossil fuels and help make council buildings better equipped to support essential services. These improvements are particularly valuable in buildings that serve children, families and communities, where dependable, well-performing infrastructure is critical.

Justin Jacober, Managing Director at Ameresco UK:

“This project is a strong example of how Bristol City Leap is helping Bristol City Council take practical action to decarbonise important public buildings. By replacing gas heating with air source heat pumps and introducing additional energy-saving measures such as solar PV, LED lighting and loft insulation at Belbrook Children’s Respite Unit, we are helping to reduce emissions, modernise ageing infrastructure and support more efficient buildings for the people who use them every day.”

“We’re proud to be working in partnership to deliver improvements that support both environmental goals and public services, particularly at sites that play such an important role in supporting children, families and communities across Bristol.”

Councillor Abi Finch, Chair of the Environment and Sustainability Committee at Bristol City Council:

“We’re pleased to announce that works to install energy efficiency improvements are soon underway. These upgrades are another important step in Bristol’s journey towards a cleaner, net-zero future. By improving buildings such as Belbrook Children’s Respite Unit, Ridingleaze House and Symes House, we are investing in infrastructure that supports vital council services while helping to reduce emissions from our estate.”

“The two investment windows we opened last year through the Bristol Climate Action Investment were a huge success, raising £2 million and hitting our investment target early, following strong demand by investors and funding from two major private investors, the Esmée Fairbairn Foundation and Unity Trust Bank. This shows great support for climate action through the council’s local green investment.”

“Bristol City Council remains committed in its efforts to help to decarbonise the city delivering practical change in the buildings our staff, residents, children and families rely on. Through the Bristol Climate Action Investment we engaged the people and communities of Bristol to invest at a local level, while continuing to play our part in achieving progress towards the city’s climate goals”

The works form part of a wider decarbonisation initiative focused on Bristol City Council’s corporate estate. The programme is intended not only to lower operational emissions but also to improve building performance and support long-term sustainability across the council’s estate.

The post Bristol City Leap to Upgrade Key Public Buildings, Boosting Energy Efficiency and Resilience appeared first on Bristol City Leap.

Recorded at Futurebuild 2026, this panel discussion explores the progress made so far, the role of retrofit in the region’s transition to net zero, and the opportunities and challenges that lie ahead for Bristol and the wider South West.

Chair:
Cllr Martin Fodor, Chair of the Environment and Sustainability Committee, Bristol City Council

Speakers:
Hannah Spungin, Director, Bristol City Leap
Craig Madders, Managing Director, Value Optimised Retrofit (VOR)
Matt Jones, Project Coordinator (Energy), Bristol City Council

The post Retrofit in Bristol and the West: Panel Discussion | 13 May 2026 appeared first on Bristol City Leap.

The latest round of funding will support a diverse range of organisations across the city to progress projects that reduce energy use, improve building efficiency and support Bristol’s transition to a cleaner, greener future.

Successful applicants in this round include the Wellspring Settlement, Siri Guru Singh Sabha Gurdwara Bristol, Watershed Arts and New Stockwood Community Association.

The projects supported through this round include:

• Conducting thermal imaging to identify remaining heat loss, assess previous upgrades and inform the next steps towards a sustainable heating system and wider decarbonisation plan.
• Commissioning a heating engineer, following a Centre for Sustainable Energy community building audit, to assess heat pump suitability and explore options for solar battery storage to maximise existing solar generation.
• Engaging a congregation on reducing energy use in line with Sikh environmental values, while assessing the roof’s suitability for insulation, solar panels and battery storage.
• Developing a long-term plan to transform Watershed into a climate-resilient, low-carbon venue through retrofit and decarbonisation measures, including heat pumps, mechanical ventilation with heat recovery, and fabric upgrades. The project aims to reduce emissions by 87 tonnes and progress towards detailed designs, planning and a robust business case.
• Surveying key building elements, including windows, doors, walls and heating systems, to identify opportunities for improved energy efficiency and comfort, alongside assessing the roof for solar installation.
• Installing a 700kW solar PV system on an industrial unit roof at Lodge Causeway, with potential for battery storage and a local energy supply model.

The Community Energy Fund was established through contributions of £750,000 each from Ameresco and Vattenfall Heat UK. It plays an important role in supporting community organisations across Bristol to deliver local energy projects, reduce fossil fuel use, improve energy efficiency and explore opportunities to connect to the Bristol heat network.

Sixth Round of Funding Now Open

Following the conclusion of the fifth funding round, Bristol City Leap is pleased to confirm that the sixth round of the Community Energy Fund is now officially open.

Community groups, charities, faith organisations and other eligible organisations across Bristol are encouraged to apply for support to help progress their decarbonisation plans.

Applicants can apply for grants and zero-interest loans to support a wide range of community-led energy projects, from early-stage feasibility work through to more developed schemes that are ready to move towards delivery.

Organisations will have until 23 September 2026 to submit their applications. The decision panel will meet the following month, giving applicants time to develop strong proposals that align with the fund’s aims of reducing carbon emissions, supporting local communities and enabling practical energy improvements across the city.

Greater Flexibility for Zero-Interest Loans

As part of the sixth round, Bristol City Leap has also introduced an important update to the zero-interest loan element of the fund.

Previously, organisations applying for loans of up to £50,000 could only use up to 20% of the loan amount for capital costs. In a move designed to accelerate project delivery, successful applicants can now apply for up to £100,000 and use the full loan amount to cover capital costs, providing greater flexibility to bring projects forward.

This means organisations can use loan funding to support more practical, on-the-ground improvements, such as installing low-carbon technologies, improving building fabric, or delivering other measures that directly support decarbonisation.

By making the loan element more flexible, the fund can better support organisations that have already identified what needs to be done and are looking for the financial support to help turn those plans into action.

Microgrants of up to £1,000 also remain available for organisations at the very beginning of their project journey. These are not restricted to specific funding rounds and can be applied for and approved at any time. Our grants and microgrants are ideal for supporting project development, while our loans can support delivery during the implementation phase.

For more information about the Bristol City Leap Community Energy Fund, including eligibility criteria and details on how to apply, please visit: https://www.bristolcityleap.co.uk/community/community-energy-fund/

About the Bristol City Leap Community Energy Fund

The £1.5 million Bristol City Leap Community Energy Fund supports and enables community-led energy projects across Bristol through a combination of grants, microgrants and zero-interest loans

The fund was established through contributions of £750,000 each from Ameresco and Vattenfall Heat UK and is designed to support the development and delivery of local energy initiatives that help reduce carbon emissions, improve energy efficiency and support Bristol’s wider decarbonisation ambitions.

The post Sixth Round of Bristol City Leap Community Energy Fund Opens Following Further Funding Awards appeared first on Bristol City Leap.

As Bristol’s first large-scale implementation of an area-based approach to housing retrofit, this project will see the Bristol City Leap conduct retrofitting efficiently, targeting specific areas and streets with tailored design, therefore enhancing benefits for residents while ensuring cost-effectiveness.

Councillor Barry Parsons, Chair of the Homes and Housing Delivery Committee, said: “This retrofit programme is about improving the lives of our residents. By investing £25 million into upgrading homes across North Bristol, we’re creating warmer, healthier and more comfortable places for families to live. These improvements will help reduce energy bills, tackle fuel poverty and give households greater long-term financial security. At the same time, the project supports local jobs, strengthens our communities and contributes to a cleaner, greener, more resilient Bristol for everyone – as we work towards our goal of becoming carbon neutral.”

Transforming Social Housing for a Sustainable Future

This retrofit project, which will be implemented by March 2028, is set to upgrade homes in Henbury, Brentry, Avonmouth, and Lawrence Weston.

By retrofitting existing properties to achieve a minimum Energy Performance Certificate or “EPC” rating of C, the programme aims to deliver warmer, cosier and more energy-efficient homes that directly benefit social housing tenants. EPC is the rating measurement of a building’s energy efficiency.

Key Measures Include:

• External and cavity wall insulation
• Window glazing and external door upgrades
• Enhanced ventilation systems
• Installation of solar PV and energy-efficient heat pumps
• Loft, roof, and floor insulation improvements
• Upgrades to energy-efficient lighting

The comprehensive area-based retrofit programme is designed to offer a range of significant benefits that will positively impact both tenants and the community. Firstly, making living more affordable. Additionally, by lowering carbon emissions, the project supports Bristol’s ambitious journey towards achieving carbon neutrality, ensuring a more sustainable future for the city.

Addressing fuel poverty is a key aspect of this initiative, with a goal of enhancing living standards for many residents. The programme also prioritises local engagement, fostering job creation and boosting social value through the involvement of local supply chains.

“This housing retrofit project is a significant milestone in our mission to create a cleaner, greener, and more sustainable Bristol,” said Alexandra Coleman, Senior Vice President at Ameresco UK. “Through our innovative area-based approach, we are set to invest in our communities and enhance the quality of life for social housing tenants while contributing to the city’s decarbonisation goals.”

To learn more about our retrofit work in social housing, check out our website: https://www.bristolcityleap.co.uk/domestic/social-housing/

This project is funded by The Warm Homes: Social Housing Fund from the Department for Energy Security and Net Zero. This funding is managed by the West of England Mayoral Combined Authority and delivered by the South West Net Zero Hub.

The post Bristol City Leap Launches £25 Million Retrofit Project to Enhance Social Housing in North Bristol appeared first on Bristol City Leap.

Successful applicants have received grants to decarbonise their local communities, with over £140,000 awarded in this round. Making the total amount awarded through the fund over £600,000. The organisations receiving funding in this round include a diverse range of community groups such as Green Schools Project, Arnolfini Gallery, SS Great Britain Trust, Bristol Community Energy and Resilience Network CIC.

• Track and use building data to improve heat and energy efficiency
• Facilitate the installation of a battery for the community-owned solar PV system at the Bristol Indoor Bowls Club
• Explore the feasibility of community solar panels for 100 homes in Lockleaze
• Look into setting up community-owned wind turbines at three possible locations
• Create climate education sessions that teach schools how to measure their carbon footprints, and it will also give students the tools to design and lead projects focused on reducing carbon emissions at their schools

Alexandra Coleman, Senior Vice President at Ameresco UK, said, “By investing in community-driven energy projects, we empower the residents of Bristol to make meaningful strides toward decarbonisation bills. The success of these initiatives will spark further positive transformations throughout the city. Our dedication to working alongside the voluntary, community, and social enterprise (VCSE) sector across Bristol is embodied in the Community Energy Fund, showcasing the significant impact we can achieve by supporting local communities on their journey to a sustainable future.”

“We’re pleased to see heat-related projects come forward through the Community Energy Fund. With more groups interested in transitioning to low-carbon heating solutions, it’s a positive reflection of the Bristol heat network’s growth and the vibrancy of community heating in the city. We’ll continue to support in any way we can to make this happen across Bristol.”

The £1.5 million Community Energy Fund, created through contributions of £750,000 each from Ameresco and Vattenfall, is a vital component of Bristol City Leap’s effort to support sustainable energy initiatives across the city. By offering financial support to community organisations, the fund aims to reduce fossil fuel use, enable connections to the Bristol heat network, and encourage energy reduction and efficiency in local communities.

The Fifth Round of Funding is Now Open

With the conclusion of the fourth round of funding, Bristol City Leap is pleased to announce that the fifth round of Community Energy Fund applications is officially open. Community groups, charities, faith organisations, and other eligible entities across Bristol (BS1–BS16) are encouraged to apply for grants and zero-interest loans to support their decarbonisation efforts.

Councillor Martin Fodor, Chair of the Environment and Sustainability Committee, expressed his enthusiasm, stating: “We are thrilled to see the latest awards of community funding, which will allow even more groups to progress their projects and play an active role in Bristol’s decarbonisation efforts. Achieving our climate goals requires collective action on all fronts, from the smallest initiatives to larger projects. This fund is tailored to empower communities to achieve a whole range of local benefits while taking impactful steps toward sustainability. By enhancing energy efficiency and launching renewable energy projects, these initiatives will engage a wide range of participants and help drive significant progress toward a sustainable future for all.”

Applicants will have around three months to submit their projects, with a deadline set for the 2^nd of April 2026. The decision panel will convene later that month. This provides ample time for organisations to develop proposals that align with the fund’s objectives of reducing carbon emissions and supporting community-led energy initiatives.

Please be aware that applications for microgrants, which can be awarded up to £1,000, are available for initiating projects and are not restricted by specific deadlines. These applications can be submitted and awarded at any time.

For more information on how to apply, please visit https://www.bristolcityleap.co.uk/community/community-energy-fund/

About the Bristol City Leap Community Energy Fund

The Bristol City Leap Community Energy Fund is part of our commitment to delivering social value and advancing decarbonisation across the city. The fund supports a wide range of community energy projects, including low-carbon building improvements, renewable energy installations, and initiatives to reduce energy consumption. Any profits generated from our loans will be reinvested into the fund to sustain future initiatives. We invite all interested community groups and organisations to apply and join us on Bristol’s journey to a better, more sustainable future.

The post Bristol City Leap Community Energy Fund Surpasses over £600k in Awarded Grants Following Fourth Round of Funding appeared first on Bristol City Leap.

The Ledbury Road project focused on addressing the outdated infrastructure of seven social housing blocks, providing essential support to residents, especially during the colder winter months. By employing a range of retrofit tools designed to reduce energy consumption and enhance overall energy efficiency, we are not only improving living conditions but also taking strides toward a more sustainable future for all.

One of the most rewarding parts of our work is the feedback we receive from those we serve. Recently, a resident shared their thoughts with us regarding the work we completed: ‘The recent renovations are a big change that is good for the community, it looked outdated, and now it’s a modern and appealing place.’

After 18 months of dedicated work, we recently celebrated the completion of the retrofit at Ledbury Road, which comprises 81 flats. The culmination of this project was marked by a small gathering in the newly renovated community room, an integral part of our commitment to creating broader benefits for residents beyond just improved energy efficiency. This gathering brought together members of the project delivery team, contractors, and, importantly, the residents themselves, strengthening community ties and celebrating our shared achievements.

The project, with an investment of £8.6 million, has undergone a comprehensive range of upgrades, profoundly transforming the Ledbury flats. We installed new, energy-efficient windows and doors, which not only enhance security but also improve thermal performance. The external walls received insulation, contributing to significant reductions in heat loss. Moreover, a new insulated roof has been added, further enhancing the building’s energy efficiency.

In addition to the major structural improvements, we refurbished the balcony walkways and installed new balustrades and handrails, ensuring safety and comfort for all residents. Ventilation systems, including kitchen and bathroom fans, were upgraded to improve air quality, while emergency lighting was also enhanced for added safety. An innovative installation of automatic opening vents was introduced, providing a crucial safety feature in case of a fire.

Electrical services underwent a significant upgrade with the installation of new containment systems, ensuring that the infrastructure meets modern standards. On the exterior, we refreshed the appearance of the buildings with freshly painted doors and perimeter railings, contributing to an improved aesthetic for the entire community. Social value is a key aspect of all Bristol City Leap projects, and that was no different here with the renovation of the community room and redecorating the stairwells, making these shared spaces more welcoming and functional for residents.

Site Manager for the Ledbury Road retrofit project, Gareth James, shared what he thought the biggest of the now completed works is: ‘There’s been a huge improvement with the insulation as well as the thermal and acoustic values everywhere, so it is now a lot quieter in the flats, very much warmer as well. It changed the whole neighbourhood, they are much more beautiful buildings to look at, and I think all the residents feel better about coming home and walking around and just a general better quality of life.’

The benefits of this project are far-reaching. We expect an improvement in the Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) scores for these flats, which translates to lower energy bills for residents, creating more affordable living conditions. The enhancements will result in warmer homes with improved ventilation, significantly reducing damp issues and promoting a healthier living environment. Furthermore, the overall external appearance of the blocks has been upgraded, making a positive contribution to the neighbourhood.

The Ledbury Road retrofit project not only enhances the living conditions of residents but also sets a precedent for future initiatives in Bristol. We are proud of what has been accomplished here and are excited about the positive impact it will have on the community for years to come. Thank you to everyone who played a part in bringing this vision to life!

If you would like to learn more about our work in domestic retrofit, click here: Domestic – Bristol City Leap

The post 81 Flats Transformed into Warmer, Cosier Homes for Bristol Residents appeared first on Bristol City Leap.