Member Article

Gentoo reveal low energy homes

Housing provider Gentoo have launched a series of innovative low energy homes that bypass the need for a traditional heating system.

David Orr, chief executive of the National Housing Federation visited the North east to show his support for the creation of 28 energy efficient bungalows, built to German ‘PassivHaus’ standards.

The developmen in Houghton-le-Spring is believed to be the first PassivHaus scheme of this scale in the UK, and has achieved formal accreditation from the Building Research Establishment (BRE).

Peter Walls, Chief Executive of Gentoo said: “Gentoo is proud to be known for pushing the boundaries of housing design and when our research into carbon reduction led us to the PassivHaus concept, we knew we needed to bring it to the region.

“The build quality was unique and a challenge for everyone involved - however, the power of collective working has helped us to champion this innovative and unique project.

“With Housing accounting for around 27% of the UK’s total carbon emissions and the continuing rise in the cost of domestic energy bills in the UK, it is hoped that our approach will assist in the fight against fuel poverty and help set a precedent for reaching the Government’s overall carbon reduction targets by 2050.”

The homes rely on solar gain, air tightness and super high standards of insulation. The design channels passive heat from sunshine through windows, and also generated from people and appliances in the home.

Gentoo used Devereux Architects as their PassivHaus consultant; the concept was first developed during the early 1990s in Germany to provide excellent living conditions during summer and winter.

Given their low energy demand, the homes are estimated to have an annual energy bill for heating and hot water of just £68, and residents will benefit from air quality, noise reduction and more comfortable temperatures.

Anne Mulroy, Head of Area at the Homes and Communities Agency (HCA) said: “It is fantastic that our investment of £200,000 has helped Gentoo build such amazing homes. It shows what can be achieved for local people.”

Harry Trueman, Deputy Leader of Sunderland City Council also noted the benefits for elderly residents.

He said: “Elderly people are often the most affected by extremes of weather and can struggle

with rising energy prices. Living in state-of-the-art homes like these, which will stay warm in winter and cost much less to heat will be extremely beneficial for all the residents who are lucky enough to live in one.“

This was posted in Bdaily's Members' News section by Tom Keighley .