Contract launched that will support our members in achieving Net Zero

Scotland Excel’s energy efficiency contractors framework has gone live to help councils and housing associations cut carbon emissions, tackle fuel poverty and create warmer homes.

A total of 46 UK-based suppliers have joined the framework. They each have the opportunity to secure a share of the business – expected to be worth £800m over four years.

The framework will enable councils and housing associations to upgrade housing stock by sourcing from framework suppliers who have been through the tender process and are ready to do business.

Councillor John Shaw, Convener of Scotland Excel, said: “I welcome the launch of this contract that will give councils and housing associations a one-stop-shop to a range of innovative energy efficiency measures. With sustainability at its core, it will underpin the Scottish Government’s drive for Net Zero by 2045 by supporting councils and housing associations in their efforts to tackle fuel poverty and reduce carbons emissions.

“It will also bring significant opportunities for the businesses that have secured a place on the framework, which includes 37 Scottish suppliers – 33 of which are SMEs. I’m also pleased that we have improved and enhanced the framework from its first generation to support a rapidly growing market – and this includes introducing a new professional services lot.”

The framework will allow contractors to deliver a range of measures including wall, floor and loft insulation; windows and doors replacement and retrofit, roof insulation, repair and replacement, electric heating, air source and ground source heat pumps as well as renewables and energy storage solutions.

Scotland Excel has worked closely with ESP to develop the framework, to ensure it supports the national drive to improve skills and works within the industry. This collaboration will help bridge gaps and ensure the supply chain is equipped to deal with demand in coming years.

John Renwick Sector Manager - Construction - at ESP Scotland, said: “ESP welcomes the launch of Scotland Excel’s new energy efficiency contractor’s framework. Both agencies have collaborated over the last year to implement the new Installer Skills Matrix that has been incorporated into the updated BSI PAS 2030 (2019) standards.

“The matrix will help the supply chain understand the training and qualifications they need to demonstrate their competency for the energy efficiency and microgeneration sector in Scotland. This is a positive step for both agencies - recognising skills as the catalyst to driving net zero targets. This will not only improve the quality and standards of installations in Scotland, this will also create new jobs and apprentices for a flourishing market.”