Eco-homes show way forward

Published Date: 24 June 2009
By JOHN ROSS

A PIONEERING energy-efficient housing scheme in the Highlands could be a model for other projects across the country, according to the government.
Alex Neil, the minister for housing and communities, yesterday visited Scotland's first development of New Energy Homes (NEH), being showcased at Tarbat Park, Kildary, in Easter Ross.The NEH concept, developed by the not-for-profit Highland Housing Alliance, uses technology and construction methods previously available only for one-off architect-designed homes.It is felt it could offer developers and public-sector organisations across the UK a chance to create affordable eco-homes.Backed by Scottish Government funding of £300,000, the development of 17 factory- assembled homes have been erected in a fraction of the traditional build time.Each house features renewable heat-pump technology, under-floor heating, roof insulation, good ventilation and low-energy windows. Built by Tulloch Homes, they are some of the first homes in the UK to use Scotframe's SupaWall insulation, which reduces air leakage, prevents draughts and helps to maintain a steady temperature.Information about energy use in the houses will be collected and analysed over two years. Mr Neil said: "At a time when families across Scotland are feeling the pinch, this type of development points the way forward for more energy-efficient, cost-saving homes."Scottish companies are at the forefront of technology, and this could be a blueprint for developments across the country."Susan Torrance, the HHA chief executive, said the Kildary scheme was cost-effective, fast to construct and highly energy-efficient