A research-led retrofit demonstration project delivered by wienerberger in partnership with Liverpool John Moores University (LJMU) is providing practical insights for social housing providers looking to improve energy efficiency, comfort, and affordability for residents.
The Renatus retrofit test houses on the LJMU campus comprise three properties representing typical UK homes from the 1920s, 1970s and 2010s. Each home has undergone a full whole-house retrofit using wienerberger’s Renatus solution, which integrates building fabric upgrades, airtightness improvements, ventilation enhancements, sustainable roofing and low-carbon heating in a coordinated, evidence-based approach. This allows researchers to monitor energy use, indoor comfort, and operational costs across different housing types.
Independent Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) assessments demonstrated significant improvements: the 1920s property rose from EPC D to EPC A, while the 1970s and 2010s homes improved from EPC C to EPC B. These results highlight how targeted retrofit measures can make social housing more energy-efficient, affordable to run, and comfortable for residents.
The retrofit works were sequenced to replicate real-life conditions, showing that upgrades can be delivered while residents remain in their homes, minimising disruption. Advanced monitoring, including robotic simulations of tenant behaviour, allows for accurate long-term data collection on energy consumption, indoor air quality, and moisture levels.
John Harris, Head of Social Housing at wienerberger, said: “Social housing providers face the dual challenge of improving energy efficiency while keeping homes healthy, affordable, and practical for tenants. The Renatus test houses demonstrate a scalable, evidence-based approach that delivers lower energy bills, better comfort, and healthier living conditions.”
Professor Mike Riley, Director of the School of Civil Engineering and Built Environment, added: “This project combines academic research and industry expertise to create a living laboratory for social housing retrofit. The data we gather will help providers make informed decisions that improve both building performance and residents’ quality of life.”
The Renatus test houses provide a replicable model for social housing providers seeking to meet EPC targets, reduce carbon emissions, and deliver tangible benefits to tenants through evidence-driven retrofit solutions.
