A Cardiff business has been announced as a winner in the first ever Making Better Homes Awards, run by national builders’ merchant Jewson.
Channel Electrical Systems secured top place in the Best Use of Renewable Energy in a Project category of the awards following a public vote – in which thousands of votes were cast – for its work at Oak Court, Penarth, where solar panels were sourced and installed at more than 40 individual homes, helping elderly residents to save money on energy bills.
Launched to recognise the industry heroes who are going above and beyond in the delivery of energy efficient, safe and comfortable homes, the Making Better Homes Awards received a wealth of entries when it opened in 2023. The projects were whittled down to a ‘top three’ for each of the competition categories – Best Use of Renewable Energy in a Project, Best Building Fabric in a Project, and Sustainable Project of the Year – by an esteemed judging panel, including representatives from the Federation of Master Builders and charity Band of Builders. The shortlist was announced in February, with the public asked to decide which of the projects were most worthy of the top prizes. The winners and runners up were announced at Jewson Live, which recently took place at the NEC.
Channel Electrical Systems narrowly beat Castlethorpe Homes, which received a Highly Commended recognition award for its entry centred on The Paddocks, a unique new build family home with integrated renewable energy solutions and sustainable features, as well as a beautiful design in keeping with local surroundings. NR2 Community Builders took third place, for their Forest House project – a timber frame eco tech house built on the site of a former 1960s bungalow.
Rob Lewis, Lead Project Manager, Channel Electrical Systems, said: “We are overwhelmed to have won in the Jewson Making Better Homes Awards, it’s fantastic. It’s been a busy year, with a lot of projects, but Oak Court was one we were particularly proud of, so we’re delighted it’s been recognised. It’s been great working with Allume Energy and Wales & West Housing Association on the project, thank you to both of them for their support, and most of all thank you to our incredible team at Channel Electrical. The Making Better Homes Awards sets a standard for the industry and we’re so pleased to be involved.”
Nicola De Sousa, Central Director for the Federation of Master Builders, and a member of the judging panel, said: “Channel Electrical Systems’ project showcased a remarkable approach to shared renewable energy – something which has clearly resonated with the public. Not only did Channel Electrical Systems offer residents a new approach to energy, but they have made a directly positive impact on the challenge of fuel poverty – something which rings true across the country. Their work is commendable, and they deserve to celebrate.”
