Published 29 May 2025
Council tenants in multi-storey blocks are starting to see the benefits of new heating and hot water controls.
Some have already reported that their homes are warmer than before and others have even noticed a reduction in their energy bills since switching to the Connected Response HeatSage controls.
The HeatSage Controls work with the existing storage heating system in the home, reducing charging times on milder days and shifting water tank charging to off-peak times, helping to reduce energy usage and, in turn, cost. Installation is quick and involves minimal disruption for tenants.
Installation of the controls across 900 homes in 14 blocks in Clydebank and Dumbarton is well underway with around 80% already completed.
And thanks to a grant award from the SP Energy Networks’ Transmission Net Zero Fund the technology will be rolled out faster than originally scheduled.
The Council was awarded £355,600 towards the project meaning more tenants will be able to experience the benefits quicker.
Tenants can maximise the benefits of their new controls by switching to a smart meter and moving to an off-peak tariff. This gives them more off-peak charging opportunities helping their homes to be warmer when they need it. Tenants can request a smart meter from their energy supplier.
Getting a smart meter will also protect tenants from the upcoming Radio Teleswitch (RTS) turn off at the end of next month.
The installation is quick and involves minimal disruption for tenants.
West Dunbartonshire Council’s Convener of Housing and Communities, Councillor Gurpreet Singh Johal, said: “Our residents will be able to enjoy noticeable benefits from the new HeatSage technology, with some already seeing an impact on their bills. The implementation of the HeatSage heating and hot water controls across 14 blocks is a major step in improving residents’ ability to control both the temperature of their homes and their energy usage.
“This support from the Net Zero Fund will make a massive difference to not only those residents receiving new heating and hot water controls, but the wider community with increased education and knowledge sharing on the benefits upgrades like these provide.”
Vice Convener of Housing and Communities, Councillor Hazel Sorrell, added: “We are determined to take action to improve the tenant experience and have listened to feedback from those in multi-storeys who say they want better heating in the evenings with a better price. So I am delighted that the Connected Response controls are working so well and that we are able to roll this out to all tenants quicker than first expected thanks to funding from the SP Energy Networks’ Net Zero Fund grant award.”