Case Studies

Client: London Borough of Camden

Appointed company: Ameresco

Project Name: Belsize Grove

Framework: N8 Workstream 2: Building Energy Management Systems

Project value: Approx. £2.9m

The Project

The London Borough of Camden, appointed Ameresco for a forward-thinking retrofit project at Belsize Grove under our Energy Efficiency framework. The initiative focused on enhancing building performance through modern, energy-efficient upgrades aimed at improving comfort for residents while significantly reducing carbon emissions.

This project forms part of Camden Council’s wider retrofit programme, addressing the energy inefficiencies in its aging housing stock, many homes of which were built before 1920. With a commitment to sustainability, the Council is investing in long-term solutions to fuel poverty and climate change, with Ameresco leading the way on implementation.

The Challenge

Belsize Grove, like many of Camden’s older properties, faced numerous issues: poor insulation, outdated heating systems, and inefficient windows, all contributing to high energy consumption, heat loss, and discomfort for residents.

Key challenges included:

• Heat retention issues causing cold spots and draughts.
• Rising energy bills and increased fuel poverty risks.
• Poor sound insulation and condensation build-up.
• An urgent need to reduce the building’s carbon footprint.

The goal was to transform Belsize Grove into a model of modern energy efficiency, while minimising disruption to residents.

The Solution

Ameresco delivered a comprehensive retrofit, focusing on three major areas: insulation, window upgrades, and smart energy retrofits.

Insulation Improvements

The building’s loft, roof, external walls, and selected floors were insulated to reduce heat loss. This led to:

• Increased warmth and comfort during winter.
• Lower energy bills for residents.
• Better soundproofing and fewer draughts.

New Window Installation

Windows were upgraded with double or secondary glazing, which resulted in:

• Improved thermal efficiency and noise reduction.
• Less condensation and a healthier indoor environment.
• Reduced carbon emissions from heating usage.

Smart Energy Retrofits

Heating, hot water, and ventilation systems were modernised with energy-efficient devices and controls. Residents now benefit from:

• Improved air quality.
• Lower energy consumption and associated costs.
• Enhanced overall home comfort.

Social Value for the Community

The retrofit has had an impact on the lives of Belsize Grove residents. Beyond environmental benefits, the project has elevated living standards and wellbeing in tangible ways.

Residents shared great feedback:

“Ameresco are very keen to do a good job and their staff are professional, polite and respectful.”
Ms. A Ward, Flat 60

“It’s like having a new flat—no cold, no damp any longer. Your support has been extraordinary.”
Ms. A. Puddu, Flat 9

“I am exceedingly grateful for this comprehensive makeover and for the very pleasant Ameresco staff.”
A Resident

This project contributes directly to Camden’s goal of drastically cutting the 75,000 tonnes of carbon emissions generated annually by council homes. More importantly, it sets a precedent for how local authorities and partners can work together to tackle climate change and fuel poverty while delivering real value to communities.

Camden council state “It’s important for future generations that we drastically cut the carbon emissions from our council homes to play our part in reversing climate change.”