Phoenix Energy and the Northern Ireland Housing Executive (NIHE), through NIHE’s Low Carbon Programme, have commenced a new hybrid heating programme aimed at supporting the decarbonisation of home heating across Northern Ireland. The initiative will see a selection of Belfast homes upgraded with a combination of energy efficiency improvements and low carbon heating technology.
The programme has retrofitted 15 NIHE properties using a ‘fabric first’ approach, including cavity wall and loft insulation, alongside upgraded windows and doors to improve overall energy efficiency. Alongside these measures, participating homes will receive a new hybrid heating system that combines an air source heat pump with an efficient gas boiler.
With installations now completed by local company H&A Mechanical Services, there will be a two-year monitoring period to assess system performance. Phoenix Energy will closely monitor 10 participating properties - including eight with hybrid systems and two with gas-only systems acting as a comparator- to evaluate carbon savings, running costs and overall benefits for households. The programme will generate valuable insights to help inform future heating policy and support Northern Ireland’s transition to a lower carbon energy system.
Mrs Irvine, a tenant at Highburn Crescent who is participating in the programme, said: "I was pleased to be selected to take part in this programme. The work carried out in my home has made a noticeable difference already, and I’m looking forward to seeing how the new heating system performs over time. It’s encouraging to be involved in something that could help shape how homes are heated in the future."
Jonathan Martindale, Director of Business Development at Phoenix Energy, added: "The rollout of hybrid heating systems across Europe has already demonstrated the significant carbon reductions this practical, affordable and reliable solution can deliver. For over 30 years, Phoenix Energy has been at the forefront of consumer-focused energy solutions, and we’re delighted to be working with long-standing partners Northern Ireland Housing Executive on this latest phase of industry development."
Nathan Bolton, Assistant Director of Project Delivery at the Housing Executive, said: “We’re delighted to be working with Phoenix Energy on this pilot hybrid programme, helping our tenants enjoy warmer, healthier homes while reducing their energy bills.
“A two-year monitoring programme is now underway to assess the performance of the hybrid heating systems, and these findings will inform the design and delivery of future low carbon initiatives.
“This project is part of a wider £14m investment in our Low Carbon Programme, aimed at cutting carbon emissions in our tenants’ homes and tackling fuel poverty through the introduction of technologies such as air-source heat pumps and solar panels.”
John McLean, Maintenance Manager at H&A Mechanical Services, who installed the systems, commented: "We are proud to support the installation of these hybrid systems, delivering upgrades that improve the efficiency and comfort of homes. The project demonstrates how practical, well-installed solutions can play a role in reducing emissions while maintaining reliable heating for households."
Photo caption (l to r): Robert Clements, NIHE; Nathan Bolton, NIHE; Mrs Irvine, tenant; Jonathan Martindale, Phoenix Energy; John McClean, H&A Mechanical Services
