Procure Plus supports Stockport Homes

The social housing consortium Procure Plus is supporting Stockport Homes to install solar panels across its properties.

Using its purchasing and framework models, Procure Plus has helped the arms length management organisation leverage volume cost savings on materials and contractors for its installation scheme, known as SHINE.

Procure Plus said Stockport Homes was able to secure a unit price of £4,000 to £6,000 for each home, saving up to 50% on the typical unit price.

Procure Plus is employing local businesses for the project, which has included the appointment of contractor Dodd Group to install 590 of the solar photovoltaic systems.

Stockport Homes said Preston-based regeneration firm Forrest is installing the other 610 solar photovoltaic panels on its behalf.

Stockport Homes added that the allocation of houses was due to the geography of its stock and it didn't want to divide a street in half.

Procure Plus also plans to engage with ex-offenders from the community to undertake training and employment through the SHINE project. Subject to a selection process, these participants will embark on a six month training programme with Stockport Homes to install and maintain the solar panels, and on completion, will have the chance to secure long term employment.

Mark Hudson, from Stockport Homes, said: "Renewable technologies can have enormous benefits for residents and social housing providers, however, key to achieving the best possible return on investment is effective and efficient procurement.

"Working in partnership with Procure Plus, we've been able to maximise value for money for the SHINE project and set a new standard on price. What's more, Procure Plus has helped us realise significant added value benefits."