BedZED
Address: Wallington, Surrey, SM6 7BZ
Completed in: 2002
Number of properties: 82
Scheme type: Mixed tenure social housing 25%, shared 24% and outright sale 51%.
The Beddington Zero Energy Development (BedZED) is the UK’s first and largest carbon neutral eco-community. It is a mixed-use, mixed-tenure development that incorporates innovative approaches to energy conservation and environmental sustainability.
The BedZED design concept was driven by the desire to create a net 'zero fossil energy development', one that will produce at least as much energy from renewable sources as it consumes.
It is built on reclaimed land previously owned by the London Borough of Sutton. Sutton sold the land to Peabody at below market value due to the planned environmental initiatives.
The surrounding community was consulted during the development process and the new community has integrated well. Reductions in energy and water consumption during construction have been supported by consumption figures during occupation that are way below UK averages.
The design is used to enhance the environmental dimensions, with a strong emphasis on roof gardens, sunlight, solar energy, reduction of energy consumption and waste water recycling.
Buildings are constructed from thermally massive materials that store heat during warm conditions and release heat at cooler times. In addition, all buildings are enclosed in a 300mm insulation jacket.
BedZED houses are arranged in south facing terraces to maximize heat gain from the sun, known as passive solar gain. Each terrace is backed by north facing offices, where minimal solar gain reduces the tendency to overheat and the need for energy hungry electric air conditioning.
It is designed to use energy from on-site renewable sources to meet the energy needs of the development. There have been problems with the site’s main source of power and heat – an on-site woodchip-powered combined heat and power (CHP) plant – resulting in the CHP being shut down.
Even without the CHP BedZED is still saving a massive 56% of carbon emissions in the home through its energy efficient design, energy efficient appliances, education and solar panels which provide approximately 11% of the site’s energy.
BedZED has been designed to address environmental, social and economic needs. It brings together a number of proven methods – most of which are not particularly high tech - for reducing energy, water and car use. Crucially, it produces affordable, attractive and environmentally responsible housing and workspace.
Project team:
Architect - Bill Dunster ZEDfactory Ltd
Environmental consultants - BioRegional Development Group
Structural engineers - Ellis & Moore
Energy and engineering consultants - Arup
Quantity surveyor - Gardiner and Theobald
Photovoltaic supplier - BP Solar
For more information please contact us via email.
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