A new housing development using the latest green technology has been completed in Bridgend, near Cardiff.
Residents of the Hafod Housing Association have recently taken occupation of the estate, which comprises 31 houses and flats in Cae Gleison.
The estate has been built to meet the highest energy efficiency standards, all reaching level 4 of the Code for Sustainable Homes, higher than currently required by the Welsh Assembly.
Two homes have achieved the Passivhaus standard set by the Building Research Establishment, originally established to deal with the most efficient construction of new housing in the aftermath of WWI. With new developments in technology, the remit of the BRE has been extended to include buildings which demonstrate high levels of energy efficiency and air quality, coupled with low carbon emissions.
The properties have been constructed with a traditional appearance on the outside although inside each boasts a range of energy efficient systems, including heating water by solar power, under floor heating and low energy light fittings.
Water consumption is reduced by efficient eco flow showers and tap fittings and the traditional heat pump powered by a gas boiler has been replaced with a pump which uses air as its energy source.
Large triple-glazed PVC windows have been installed, providing a superior airtight seal and allowing as much natural daylight into the properties as possible. Produced in the UK, using environmentally-friendly methods and materials, the windows will require little maintenance and can be recycled very easily.