This project uses Social Network Analysis to map the skills and communication networks of supply chain actors recruited into local traditional and off-site modular building retrofitting strategies.
Old for new? Mapping skills and communication networks for local traditional and off-site modular building energy retrofit
Most people retrofit their homes incrementally, for example replacing a boiler then adding new windows. This is a good way to utilise local tradespeople, but this traditional strategy is unlikely to meet climate targets. An alternative is off-site manufacture of a new building cover that includes more efficient insulation and appliances in one unit. Tradespeople need different skills for traditional and off-site retrofitting techniques, but we do not yet have a clear picture of who is involved in different retrofitting strategies. This research maps the skills and communication networks of supply chain actors in local traditional and off-site modular strategies.
Why does it matter?
- We need to understand the supply chain actors involved in different retrofitting strategies.
- New strategies, like off-site manufacture will not succeed if we do not have enough people across the supply chain to deliver them.
- Developing understandings of the skills and communication networks at play helps us to: Develop suitable skills training and maximise employment across the sector; Deliver energy retrofitting well and in a way that actually contributes to reducing energy consumption; Deliver energy retrofit at the speed and scale needed to meet climate targets.
What we are asking
- How do skills and communication in supply chains for local traditional and off-site modular retrofitting differ?
- What skills are needed to take part in local traditional and off-site modular retrofitting?
- How can the local traditional approach be expanded to deliver wide-scale retrofitting?
- How can off-site modular retrofitting utilise local networks for roll-out in local communities?
Banner photo credit: Annie Spratt on Unsplash