Moray Council Approves Over 1,700 Energy Efficiency Upgrades

Moray Council has approved a plan to implement over 1,700 energy efficiency upgrades for its housing stock. This decision comes as the council acknowledges that its council houses are significantly lagging behind the Scottish average in terms of energy efficiency and housing quality. During a full council meeting on February 26, 2024, members ratified a three-year plan aimed at improving the living conditions of residents.

One of the notable developments during this meeting was an increase in council house rents by 6 percent, consistent with the previous year’s adjustment. This increase applies to both residential properties and garage sites. Despite the rise, a council spokesperson emphasized that Moray will continue to maintain some of the most affordable rent levels in Scotland.

The council’s housing budget has been shaped by its performance against the Scottish Housing Quality Standard. Current data indicates that as of April 2025, only 43.7 percent of Moray Council’s homes meet these standards, starkly lower than the national average of 82.9 percent. Furthermore, the energy efficiency of Moray’s homes stands at 69.7 percent compliant, compared to the national average of 89.4 percent.

Addressing Energy Efficiency Shortfalls

During the council meeting, Councillor Draeyk van der Horn remarked that Moray is “considerably behind” the average for Scottish councils. Nevertheless, he acknowledged the ongoing efforts to remedy the situation. Councillor Edward Thomas reported that since the period covered in the report, substantial progress has been made. By January 2026, Moray Council’s performance against housing quality standards had improved by 42 percent, with a 9 percent increase in energy efficiency metrics.

To enhance the quality of its housing, the council has approved a comprehensive Housing Investment Plan. Over the next three years, this plan includes the replacement of windows in 900 homes, combined kitchen and bathroom upgrades in 300 homes, additional bathroom upgrades in 300 homes, and heating system replacements in 230 homes.

Strategic Investments and Future Plans

The chair of the housing committee, Councillor Amber Dunbar, identified the improvement of council homes as the “main challenge” facing the housing service this year. Regarding the rent increase, she stressed that even with the adjustment, rents would remain among the lowest in Scotland, allowing for continued investment in housing stock.

This year’s housing budget totals nearly £32 million, which includes over £10 million designated for repairs and maintenance. In addition, Moray Council’s new-build program is set to receive almost £24 million this year, with further allocations of £19 million and £11 million planned for the subsequent two years.

Looking ahead, Moray Council has outlined plans for the construction of 268 new homes and the acquisition of 30 properties. Further initiatives are also being explored to regenerate long-term vacant or derelict properties, aiming to bring them back into productive use. This strategic approach not only addresses immediate housing needs but also sets a foundation for sustainable growth in the region’s housing sector.