Comprising 444 ‘net zero’ homes, the project forms a major part of the £1.3bn Granton Waterfront Regeneration Framework, one of the largest regeneration projects under construction in the UK, which will see 3,500 net zero homes as well as Europe’s largest coastal park created by 2032.
Led by the City of Edinburgh Council and Main Contractor CCG (Scotland), the masterplan comprises five residential blocks reaching six storeys providing a mix of one, two, and three-bedroom flats for social and mid-market rent as well as private sale.
Working in partnership with Hawthorne Boyle, Arc-Tech (Scotland) is responsible for the installation of the development’s zero-emissions energy system comprising of central district heating network and renewable services.
Supported by £4.1m funding from the Scottish Government’s Low Carbon Infrastructure Transition Programme, the heating network operates similarly to that of a conventional district heating system. A purpose-built energy centre forms part of the masterplan and contained within it is a cASHP (combined Air Source Heat Pump) system that utilises up to 9 ASHP and 7 WSHP (Water Source Heat Pump) units to provide heating and hot water services.
The system distributes energy via a pre-insulated underground pipe network that connects to the flatted blocks and is fed up through each common close. Individual plots will have a Heat Interface Unit (HIU) installed that serves all heating appliances and instantaneous sources of hot water.
Further supporting the net zero carbon agenda is the use of solar PV systems with over 1750 panels that will service the landlord’s supply of energy.
Arc-Tech’s in-house expertise will also be utilised in the installation of sprinkler systems which are integrated as part of the new fire safety regulations for flatted developments, as well as the installation of 30 Electric Vehicle (EV) charging points.
Construction commenced in 2021 and works are set to be undertaken over a 3-year programme with full completion expected in 2024.
Western Villages is one of two net zero developments that are presently being supported in Edinburgh with Granton D1, a development of 75 homes that is the first pilot project of the Edinburgh Home Demonstrator initiative.
A further 118 low carbon homes are also under construction in Newhaven and a further 30+ homes in both North Lanarkshire and East Ayrshire are also being supported with an enhanced net zero specification including renewable energy systems with battery storage.
Client:
The City of Edinburgh Council
