In total, 91 homes have already been fitted with new energy efficient double-glazed windows and doors, with 57 homes also benefiting from multi-measure energy efficiency upgrades. Both packages of works have significantly enhanced the energy efficiency of these homes, helping Trust customers to reduce their energy consumption and costs. 

The multi-measure energy efficiency works have been delivered in partnership with North Ayrshire-based energy efficiency specialist Green Home Systems. The work has included insulation upgrades and the installation of solar panels, battery storage, new ventilation systems and new zero emissions heating systems, in some homes.  

With an external battery installed in each home, this means that customers can maximise the benefit from energy generated from their new solar panels, helping to drive down their energy bills.

Ms Galloway, a Trust customer who had solar panels and a battery installed in her home in July 2024, has already seen a difference in her energy bills.

Ms Galloway said: “The monetary savings have been seen in my energy bills already, even though we are in the winter months. However, I am really looking forward to the summer months when we can see the extra savings in energy with the brighter days. The Green Homes Systems installation team were very good, once they started the works were completed within a few days and were nice and tidy around the house.” 

Following the success of the first phase, Trust has announced a second phase, this time covering over 200 homes, which commenced in late 2024 and is due to complete in Spring 2025. Green Homes Systems has also been awarded this second contract, which once completed, will see most of Trust’s 293 customers on the island benefitting from this investment.

Meanwhile, Sidey Solutions Limited has now completed the installation of new PVC-U windows and doors to 91 homes across the island in the towns and villages of Brodick, Whiting Bay, Lamlash, Shiskine, Corrie and Kilmory.  

As a result of these works, Trust will have secured over £80k through contractual community benefits, which will help bolster their ‘Hardship Fund’. The Trust Hardship Fund was put in place in 2023 to help support customers who require financial support through the current cost of living crisis. The fund can be accessed by Trust customers most in need to help with the cost of food, utility bills and other essential household expenses.

Customers who are in financial difficulty can find out more on how to access the fund by contacting their new Isle of Arran customer partner, Sandra McIlroy.  

Jackie McIntosh, director of assets & sustainability, said: “We are delighted to have completed these two major packages of works across the island. These two projects are already proving their benefit to our customers on Arran making our customer’s homes warmer and easier to heat. The feedback from customers in phase one has been incredible and we are keen to extend the benefits of this investment to as many of our customers as possible.

“The additional money generated for our Hardship fund from these contracts will also provide much needed additional financial support to many Trust customers on the island impacted by the ongoing cost of living crisis.” 

Alastair Macphie, managing director of Green Home Systems, said: “The completion of this initial phase of energy efficiency works is a major milestone in our shared commitment to reducing fuel poverty and improving energy efficiency for residents across Arran. We are honoured to continue our partnership with Trust for this exciting new phase. Our work on Arran exemplifies the real difference that can be made when organisations unite to address fuel poverty and work towards a greener future.

“The new phase of the Arran Project aligns with GHS’s ongoing mission to support energy transition initiatives across Scotland.” 

Steve Hardy, joint managing director of Sidey Group, added: “We have enjoyed a long and successful partnership with Trust and are delighted to have completed the window and door replacement works on the Isle of Arran as part of Trust’s energy efficiency investment programme. Sidey is focused on working with our customers to provide energy efficient products and solutions, resulting in a better quality of life and a more sustainable way of living.

“These works will help achieve this goal, particularly considering the global uncertainty in energy markets and by working in partnership with Trust we can also help reduce fuel poverty for their tenants.”