Social task
Barneveld housing association has approximately 3,800 rental homes in the social sector, and the association’s social task is twofold according to operations manager John van Maastricht. ‘We provide high-quality, affordable homes, but we also have an ambition in the area of sustainability. The renovations have made the houses more comfortable to live in while also reducing energy costs for our tenants. That's very important right now.'
Collaboration with Van Wijnen
A crucial aspect of this project is the collaboration with contractor Van Wijnen. Following a number of positive experiences in the Oude Bloemen district, the housing association entered into a five-year contract with Van Wijnen. This strategy is in line with a broader sector trend in which housing associations are more likely to opt for long-term collaboration to respond more quickly to the sustainability challenge. “Our long-term collaboration will ensure continuity and cost-effectiveness”, project leader Daniël Rijkeboer explained. ‘We are learning from each other and aligning our processes more closely.’ Van Wijnen has expertise in working in inhabited properties, and pays close attention to social as well as technical aspects.
Funding with an impact
When it came to funding, the housing association opted for its principal banker, BNG. ‘In addition to offering excellent terms, BNG actively contributes ideas about the entire funding process’, Mr van Maastricht said. ‘They understand our social task and offer solutions that fit in with it.’ René Goorden, Housing sector lead at BNG, said ‘As a bank, we are committed to the Dutch Climate Agreement. We welcome projects such as these, which focus on ensuring sustainable housing and therefore serve the interests of society. Making homes more sustainable is not only important for society, it also makes financial sense as organisations with real estate that can be used sustainably are more future-proof.’
Inspiration to the sector
Barneveld housing association wants 80% of its housing stock to have an average energy rating of A by 2030. Despite delays in newbuild projects, the housing association is on course to achieve this goal. The average energy rating is currently B and only forty homes still have a poor energy label (E, F or G label). The project serves as inspiration for other housing associations. “This form of cooperation can serve as an example for other housing associations facing similar challenges”, Mr Goorden said. This project demonstrates how a clear vision for sustainability, combined with strategic cooperation and appropriate funding, can enable the social housing sustainability challenge to be tackled more quickly, leading to direct benefits for tenants, housing associations and the climate.
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