CARAMAN SWITCHES ON THE SUN IN COLERAINE!
21 Jan 2010
Local property developer Caraman Ltd has teamed up with Northern Ireland Electricity (NIE) to switch on the sun for future homeowners in Coleraine! Construction work has started on a development of environmentally friendly homes, which will showcase the latest renewable energy technologies and energy saving measures.
Electricity generating solar panels, part funded by the NIE SMART programme, will be installed on the south facing roofs of ten homes in the 53 dwelling Loguestown development. Each 1.26kWp solar photovoltaic (PV) system will generate approximately 1,100 units of environmentally friendly electricity every year, helping the householders to reduce their electricity bills.
Alan Shields, Developer with Caraman Ltd, says “The Loguestown development offers a unique opportunity to try out, monitor and demonstrate many green technologies and energy saving methods. We’ll use the lessons we learn to promote innovative community design and environmentally responsible construction, and stay at the forefront of sustainable living into the future. We believe the cost of an individual’s carbon footprint will rise and this type of home will save both energy and money for years to come.”
In addition to the solar panels, these traditionally built houses will be highly insulated and will feature energy efficient lighting and ‘A’ rated electrical appliances. All the homes in the development will also have triple glazing, wood burning stoves and water conserving measures. All of these features will help this development achieve Level 4 of the Code for Sustainable Buildings and A Grade Energy Performance Certificate, and make Caraman the first private developer in Northern Ireland to include renewable technology in order to meet this standard.
Gwyneth Compston, NIE Energy, says putting renewable energy technologies onto new homes is an important step forward for Northern Ireland developers and Northern Ireland Electricity, through its SMART programme, is delighted to be able to offer support. “These homes are ideal for energy conscious householders - a combination of the most up-to-date energy saving measures and renewable energy generated by solar panels.
“Homeowners of this type of property will not only benefit from lower energy bills, they will also be doing their bit for the environment. The installation of each solar panel will save around 850kg of CO2 being emitted annually. We hope other developers will follow Caraman’s lead and look at incorporating renewable technologies into the design of future homes.”
Caraman Ltd is also working with nearby school, North Coast Intergrated College to offer pupils construction skills and the opportunity to see the practical application of energy saving and renewable energy technologies. The developer believes the education of young people in new methods of sustainable living is key in safeguarding the future of our environment and reducing climate change.
The NIE SMART programme is funded by Northern Ireland Electricity and managed by NIE Energy. To find out how you can switch onto solar, or make your home or business more energy efficient go to www.nie-yourenergy.co.uk . For more information about Caraman Ltd homes at Loguestown go to www.caramanltd.com or contact Dessie Ramage at McAfee Coleraine on 028 7034 2224.
. . ENDS . .
Issued by:
Julia Carson, NIE Communications Manager
Northern Ireland Electricity Corporate Communications
Direct Dial: 028 9076 6859
Medialine: 0845 300 3556
back to news page | top
