We’re proud to be helping to transform homes across Walsall with solar panels and insulation

Every day, we’re improving the energy efficiency of people’s homes up and down the country, working in partnership with housing associations and local authorities. One such example is our work with social housing association whg and Thrift Energy in Walsall. whg provides affordable homes for people to rent, share ownership of and buy across the Midlands and we’re working together to not only help ensure these homes are warm and comfortable – but fit for the future too.

Right now, we’re transforming 250 homes across Walsall with measures such as insulation, solar panels and better ventilation. These improvements will make these homes more energy efficient and more comfortable, healthy places to live. As well as helping residents lower their energy use and bills, the property overhauls will also give people the ability to generate their own power with solar panels.

Rob Gilham, Corporate Director of Strategy Assets and Transformation at whg, said: “We are proud to be working with E.ON to deliver these works, a critical step in our commitment to creating sustainable, thriving communities.

“By improving the energy efficiency of our homes, we not only reduce carbon emissions but also tackle fuel poverty, ensuring our customers’ homes are warmer, healthier, and more affordable to run.”

Residents will be able to generate their own renewable electricity from solar panels, providing them with independence from the grid, reducing their energy bills, and ensuring no one is left behind as we lead the way to a new energy world.

Work began in November 2024, with many homes now already experiencing the benefits of living in a more energy efficient house. Denise Price recently had solar panels installed on her home’s roof and has shared her thoughts on their installation experience and the benefits she’s starting to see. 

“The installation process went smoothly, with no issues regarding the installers or the installation itself. I've noticed some difference on sunnier days, though not a huge change but I think this might be because the installation was only completed a few weeks ago. Overall, I’m happy with the work carried out.”

Our work will continue across homes in Walsall throughout the rest of the year, with many more residents expected to benefit from improved energy efficiency. Energy efficiency is not only a key step on the journey to net zero but it’s also essential to deliver the transition to a cleaner, more affordable energy system.

Katie Chipps, Senior Delivery Manager in our Green Funding Solutions team, added: “It has been a privilege to be involved in this project from its inception and to observe the positive impact it has already had on whg tenants. The installation of solar panels has proven to be especially beneficial, with tenants who have had them installed expected to save approximately £500 per year on their energy costs. These savings are of particular significance given the ongoing cost of living crisis, providing much-needed financial relief to those who may be facing increased household expenses. I’m proud that this project not only supports tenants in reducing their energy bills but also contributes to the UK’s sustainability goals, aligning with both economic and environmental priorities.”

Our Green Funding Solutions team draws upon government funded schemes to retrofit homes, making them warmer and more affordable for those most in need. At E.ON, we offer a range of home improvement grants and schemes as well as some additional help where you need it.

Find out more about the energy efficiency grants and funding to improve your home you may be entitled by checking our grant finder.