Tackling fuel poverty through innovation

Wigan MBC is taking a practical, no-nonsense approach to retrofit, prioritising scalable, sensible solutions over flashy but untested technologies.

As part of their Warm Homes Initiative, void properties are being upgraded with a fabric-first strategy: external wall insulation, solar PV, and air source heat pumps, all paired with ThermaSkirt radiant skirting heating.

This solution helps deliver warm, efficient homes that are easier to maintain and crucially, ready to be rolled out at scale.

Why ThermaSkirt?

Retrofitting ASHPs into older housing stock often creates friction. Standard radiators are too small, oversized ones are disruptive, and underfloor heating can be invasive and slow. ThermaSkirt solves these issues in one simple solution:

• Replaces radiators with heated skirting, freeing up wall space
• Delivers low-temperature radiant heat, perfect for ASHP performance
• Minimises disruption by connecting at convenient wall points
• Standardised pipe centres reduce installer error and simplify first fix
• No manifolds or wall reinforcement required, just quick, clean install

Added benefits for occupants

Wigan MBC’s decision to use ThermaSkirt also brings clear health and safety advantages:

• Improved air quality by reducing damp and condensation
• Eliminated trip hazards by removing bulky radiators
• Easy-clean surfaces ideal for family homes or vulnerable tenants
• Safe to touch - low surface temperature and no exposed hot surfaces

Tested and proven

The system was trialled over 12 months, with outdoor temperatures as low as -6°C. Room temperatures were consistently achieved, with ThermaSkirt surfaces running efficiently at just 35–38°C.

Feedback from housing providers and visitors has been overwhelmingly positive, highlighting comfort, aesthetics, safety, and a clear sense of space reclaimed by removing radiators.

Future-ready, even on gas

Several other local authorities have taken inspiration from Wigan’s model, installing ThermaSkirt to run at low temperatures even with gas boilers, paving the way for future heat pump upgrades without future retrofit disruption.

Conclusion

This case study proves that scalable retrofit is possible today, not tomorrow. With technologies like ThermaSkirt, local authorities can make meaningful progress toward energy efficiency and net zero, while making homes safer, warmer, and more comfortable for their tenants. Contact us to learn more about retrofit-ready heating solutions.