Fusion21’s recent announcement marks a pivotal development in the realm of sustainable construction and building safety, with the unveiling of two substantial framework agreements collectively valued at over £2.3 billion. These initiatives are strategically designed to tackle the pressing challenges of decarbonisation and safety compliance, reflecting the urgent need for resilient and secure infrastructure across the United Kingdom. As the nation faces the dual imperatives of mitigating climate change and enhancing the safety of its built environment, the frameworks introduced by Fusion21 are both timely and essential.
Focus360 Energy: property compliance services – pre-planning to post-construction. Learn more.
Central to this initiative is the formidable £1.5 billion decarbonisation framework, which is methodically crafted to address carbon reduction across both residential and public sectors. The framework’s first lot is dedicated to whole-house decarbonisation, encompassing a comprehensive suite of activities that span from meticulous design and planning to the incorporation of state-of-the-art insulation materials and renewable energy solutions. This initiative brings to the forefront cutting-edge technologies such as battery storage, sophisticated heat networks, and advanced air and ground source heating systems. By integrating solar thermal solutions and undertaking extensive refurbishment projects, the framework ensures that homes are not only energy-efficient but are also prepared for future environmental standards and challenges.
Parallel to the residential focus, the second lot within the decarbonisation framework zeroes in on educational and other public buildings, a sector of paramount importance for achieving energy efficiency benchmarks. By concentrating efforts on enhancements in heating systems and roof insulation, Fusion21 aims to establish public buildings that exemplify sustainability and reduced operational costs, thereby setting a new standard for energy-efficient infrastructure.
In alignment with its decarbonisation efforts, Fusion21 has also revitalised its Building Safety and Compliance Framework, which holds a value of up to £800 million. This framework is meticulously segmented into 12 distinct lots, each crafted to assist public sector landlords in meeting rigorous safety standards. By inviting proposals from both established and new market participants, Fusion21 encourages competition and innovation, which are vital for advancing the sector. The focus spans critical safety concerns, including asbestos management, legionella control, and fire safety improvements, all of which are indispensable for safeguarding occupants and ensuring compliance with legislative mandates.
These frameworks are not solely reactive measures but are designed to be forward-thinking, setting new benchmarks in sustainability and safety. They offer substantial opportunities for firms specialising in sustainable construction, thereby fostering innovation and economic growth within the sector. With a bid submission deadline set for January 2025, Fusion21 emphasises the urgency and critical importance of these initiatives in addressing both current and forthcoming challenges.
Peter Francis, the Group Executive Director for Operations at Fusion21, underscored the significance of maintaining a ‘golden thread’ of information throughout the building safety process. This approach is vital for ensuring that all stakeholders have seamless access to crucial information, thereby promoting transparency and accountability in safety management.
In essence, the £2.3 billion frameworks unveiled by Fusion21 represent a strategic and holistic approach to some of the most pressing issues facing the construction industry today. By prioritising decarbonisation and safety, these frameworks align with national sustainability objectives while concurrently paving the way for a safer and more resilient built environment. As the UK continues to navigate the intricacies of climate change and urban development, such initiatives are indispensable for securing a sustainable and secure future for all citizens.
Be the first to comment