Lessons from Clarion’s Ambitious Strategy

Starting with a Strong Framework

At the heart of Clarion’s approach is their Clarion 2050 strategy, which integrates decarbonisation with building safety and green space development. By aligning every project with this overarching plan, they’ve streamlined decision-making and ensured all initiatives contribute to broader sustainability goals. 

“Without a solid strategy, you’re constantly seeking approvals,” Norman explains. “Clarion 2050 provides a clear North Star: remove fossil fuels while keeping residents’ bills affordable.” 

The Power of Place-Based Strategy

Clarion’s place-based approach breaks large-scale projects into manageable, localised plans. By focusing on Bromley—their largest local authority area with diverse housing stock—they can test and refine their methods. “If we succeed in Bromley, we can replicate it anywhere,” Norman says. 

This strategy enables Clarion to work closely with local stakeholders and engage frontline staff, ensuring tailored solutions that resonate with the community. It also helps balance the benefits of scale with the need for local relevance. 

Engaging Residents Early and Often 

A key lesson from Clarion’s journey is the importance of resident engagement. Norman highlights that decarbonisation isn’t just about upgrading homes; it’s about changing how people live. Transitioning 81,000 residents from gas boilers to heat pumps requires extensive education and support. 

“We can’t simply install new tech and hope residents adjust,” Norman stresses. “We must provide ongoing guidance, use remote monitoring to spot issues, and co-create solutions with residents.” 

Leveraging Innovative Financial Models 

One of the biggest hurdles in decarbonisation is funding. Clarion is exploring the Energy Services Model, which taps into private finance to fund technologies like solar panels and heat pumps. This model allows cost recovery through energy savings, ensuring residents benefit from lower bills while Clarion maintains financial stability. 

Data-Driven Decision Making 

Data is the backbone of Clarion’s strategy. By understanding their housing stock and analysing energy performance, they can make informed decisions about where and how to invest. Norman encourages other providers to prioritise data collection and share learnings openly. 

“We’ve learned a lot through pilots and aren’t afraid to share what worked and what didn’t,” he says. “Transparency helps the whole sector move forward.” 

Hints and Tips for Success 

1. Start with a Clear Vision: Define your long-term goals early to guide your strategy. 

2. Use Data Strategically: Gather detailed asset data to make informed decisions. 

3. Engage Residents Continuously: Co-create engagement plans and provide ongoing support for new technologies. 

4. Pilot and Share Learnings: Test solutions but don’t be afraid to share what didn’t work. 

5. Maintain Momentum: Avoid delays by planning continuous progress rather than stop-start initiatives. 

6. Leverage Financial Models: Explore private finance options like the Energy Services Model for sustainable funding. 

7. Utilise Housing AI: Healthy Homes Hub’s virtual housing professional, Housing AI, provides curated guidance, compliance information, and best practices to support decision-making and streamline project execution. 

Maintaining Momentum

Norman emphasises the need for continuous progress, warning against the pitfalls of stop-start initiatives. “Momentum is crucial. Pilots are valuable, but lengthy evaluations slow things down. We need to keep pushing forward,” he advises. 

Lessons for the Sector 

Clarion’s ambitious project offers valuable lessons for the social housing sector: start with a robust strategy, engage residents, leverage innovative finance, and use data to guide decisions. Above all, share knowledge and maintain momentum. 

For more resources, visit the retrofit-society">Healthy Homes Hub Retrofit Society and explore PAS 2035 guidelines on the BSI website. Clarion’s journey proves that with bold strategies and community focus, large-scale decarbonisation is achievable.