In June, the UP2030 Belfast Retrofit Workshop brought together key stakeholders to focus on strategies for retrofitting Belfast’s residential, commercial, and public buildings.
The aim was to align efforts toward making the city’s buildings more energy-efficient and climate-resilient, with the ultimate goal of creating Belfast’s first net-zero neighbourhood.
The workshop aimed to understand how the retrofit of buildings within the UP2030 area could be delivered effectively to support the achievement of a net-zero neighbourhood. This included assessing the resource requirements necessary for successful delivery.
Participants were tasked with analysing buildings in the pilot area using Local Area Energy Planning (LAEP) data and industry expertise. The goal was to consider potential approaches to retrofit delivery that could be practically applied and scaled up across the neighbourhood.
The outcome of this analysis will support the development of a comprehensive retrofit strategy for the area, along with an outline business case to guide future efforts.
Throughout the day, attendees engaged in group discussions to explore the consequences of a “business as usual” approach, which would likely result in higher energy costs, increased carbon emissions, and lost economic opportunities by 2050. The groups considered various retrofit solutions, evaluating their costs and benefits, and identifying barriers such as upfront costs and opportunities like job creation.
The workshop also explored financial and delivery models that could support widespread retrofitting. Ideas included government-backed incentives, community-led initiatives, and coordinated, area-based plans to ensure efficient rollout and adoption at scale.
The insights and strategies developed during the UP2030 Belfast Retrofit Workshop will be instrumental in guiding the city’s efforts to achieve its net-zero emissions target by 2050.
Maps
Maps can show you where you are. But a good map can also show you where you want to go, and how to get there.
With a map, you can communicate, analyse and enact change. We work with communities to achieve social and environmental change in their local area.
Citizen Science
Environmental problems affect us all. Citizen Science can give you a voice. Let’s collect the data we need to raise awareness and fight for change.
Low tech and affordable methods mean that everyone within a community can get involved and become a citizen scientist.
Community Engagement
Does your organisation work with community groups? We can design and implement a unique engagement approach, tailored to your particular requirements.
With over 15 years experience in the community and voluntary sector, we understand how to reach and involve people.
Map Visualisation & Analysis
Space is complicated. Map visualisation & analysis can help you to understand and discover what’s going on.
We have expertise in the use of Geographical Information Systems, and we can apply it to meet your needs.
Online Mapping Platforms
It’s good to collaborate. Contribute, share and discuss your ideas about the places that matter with Community Maps, our online participatory mapping platform.
Community Maps provides an effective tool for community and multi-stakeholder consultation across a range of projects and sectors.
