How to Save Energy

Retrofits can happen in stages, or be carried out all at once. It is best to combine upgrades, extensions or building works with more advanced energy efficiency measures. Installations and upgrade needs depend on the house type and age. 

Measures you may wish to include:

  • Low and No-Cost Measures, such as heating and appliance controls, basic draught proofing, energy efficient lighting and appliances, ventilation, insulating pipes, tanks and radiators and water saving measures such as rainwater harvesting. 

  • Fabric measures, such as cavity wall insulation, external wall insulation, loft insulation, flat roof and pitched roof insulation and floor insulation as well as windows and doors upgrades. 

  • Airtightness and ventilation improvements for homeowners wishing to consider deeper retrofits. 

  • Installing renewable energy generation, such as solar PV, and supporting technologies such as battery storage and solar thermal panels. 

  • Installing renewable heating, such as air source heat pumps (ASHP), ground source heat pumps and electric heating.

The webpages within this section will explore in more detail the measures you may wish to install in your home. In addition to this section, Kingston Council has developed a Retrofit Guidance for Households to provide information on energy efficiency improvements.

For trusted external help and advice, visit the Energy Saving Trust. For further advice, head to our Understanding your Property and Funding pages.

See our Retrofit Planning page for help on planning a retrofit project and our Retrofit Risks page to understand what you should consider when undertaking a retrofit project, such as risks and planning considerations.

Last Modified: 02/04/2025 14:53:48