Case Study: Abri Petersfield Retrofit Programme

Client: Abri | Principal Contractor: Cardo Group | Location: Froxfield & East Meon, Petersfield, Hampshire

Project Brief

Abri partnered with Cardo Group to deliver a major retrofit programme across 56 off-gas homes in Petersfield. The initiative aimed to reduce fuel poverty, improve living standards, and futureproof housing stock through integrated renewable energy and electrical upgrades.
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Blue Electric Contractors Ltd was appointed to lead on the design and installation of solar PV, ventilation, and electrical improvements, helping residents transition to more efficient, lower-cost energy systems.

System Design & Scope of Works

Each property received a package of electrical and renewable upgrades designed to achieve measurable improvements in energy efficiency and comfort:

• Solar PV: 4 kWp rooftop system per property

• Ventilation: Design and installation of modern ventilation systems to reduce condensation and improve air quality

• Lighting: Replacement of all existing fixtures with energy-efficient LEDs

• Electrical Upgrades: Rewiring and capacity enhancements to support renewable and heating system requirements

Combined, the schemes at Froxfield and East Meon totalled over 100 kWp of solar PV per site, generating clean electricity and reducing reliance on costly electric heating.

Problem Solving & Project Challenges

Rural Locations
The homes were situated across remote villages, requiring detailed logistical planning for site access, deliveries, and workforce management.

Aged Infrastructure
Outdated wiring and limited electrical capacity meant significant upgrades were needed to safely integrate new systems.

G99 Approval Delays
Securing DNO approvals was a critical hurdle. Two separate applications were required, each covering over 100 kWp of solar generation. The approval process delayed commissioning, but through careful scheduling and resource reallocation, Blue Electric kept the overall programme on track.

Funding Deadlines
The works were delivered under SHDF funding requirements, which demanded full project completion and lodgement within 90 days of mobilisation.
By addressing each of these challenges proactively, Blue Electric ensured the programme was delivered to specification without compromising resident outcomes.

Resident Engagement

On completion of works, Blue Electric provided tailored handovers for each property. This included one-to-one training sessions with residents to explain how to get the best from their upgraded systems and reduce their ongoing energy costs.
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This approach improved energy literacy and gave residents confidence in using their new technology, ensuring benefits were realised long after project completion.

Outcomes

• All 56 homes achieved EPC C rating or above

• Over 160,000 kWh of renewable energy expected to be generated annually

• Significant reductions in resident energy bills

• Improved comfort, health, and wellbeing through better ventilation and insulation

• Long-term carbon savings supporting Abri’s sustainability goals

Client Feedback

Abri and Cardo praised Blue Electric for their technical expertise, adaptability in overcoming G99 delays, and commitment to resident support. The integrated delivery of solar PV, electrical, and ventilation solutions has been recognised as a benchmark for future retrofit schemes.

Reference

Rowena Claydon-Smith.  

Head of Low Carbon, Abri – rowena.claydon-smith@abri.co.uk

Joe Druce.

Operations Manager, Cardo Group – joe.druce@cardogroup.co.uk