Essex based housing association CHP has published a sustainable financing framework which will support its ambitious environmental and social targets. This includes ensuring that all its new and existing homes are as energy efficient as possible.
CHP has a number of environmental, social and governance (ESG) objectives, including plans for all of its properties to achieve an Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) of C or above by 2030. They also want to work with customers to tackle fuel poverty and make equality and diversity central to everything it does. Having this framework means that they will be able to raise funds to distribute against ESG projects which aim to improve environmental and social issues in their communities.
CHP worked with Newbridge Advisors to produce the framework document. They have also received a second party assurance from Sustainalytics, which will give lenders & investors confidence that CHP will be transparent and accountable with their ESG projects.
The 11,000 home landlord has already started migrating over to a greener fleet with the introduction of a number of electric vehicles, with more to come. They are also adding infrastructure to their new properties to enable the future fitting of electrical vehicle charging points. They are also utilising modern forms of construction such as timber frame panels and fitting properties with photovoltaic panels and environmentally friendly air source heat pumps.
CHP will now be able to report annually on how the funds from sustainability-linked projects are allocated, along with any key performance indicators (KPIs) for these projects.
Paul Edwards, CHP chief executive said:
“Having our new Sustainable Financing Framework in place is key to being able to achieve our ambitious environmental and social objectives. The new framework will allow us to fund projects that will transform the lives of our customers and the communities we work in. We’re investing in our homes to ensure they are safe and well-maintained, while reducing their environmental impact and lowering costs for customers.”