Zero Carbon Hub for Solarsense
A demonstration and training centre for Solarsense, a renewable technologies company in Backwell.
The form of the building is derived from that of a country barn with a large south facing roof to maximise the potential for solar energy generation. Systems include an extensive array of fully integrated photovoltaics, smart energy controls, mechanical ventilation and heat recovery (MHVR). Airtightness and insulation is to Passivhaus equivalent levels.
Construction is timber frame with cladding to walls and roof in NorClad pressure impregnated treated European Redwood. Windows and doors are Internorm composite timber/aluminium high performance triple glazed with low-e coating. The solar installation is a fully integrated roof of monocrystalline solar roof by GB-Sol with a capacity of 12.85 kWp. A particular feature is the solar PV rooflights that cast a dappled shade onto the main staircase beneath -see photos. Underfloor heating is through ground source heat pump. Mechanical Ventilation and Heat Recovery by Paul Novus PassivHaus Certified system.
The project was constructed by Natural Design and Build, now Space Framing and Dovetail and was occupied in late 2016, with renovation of other buildings on site planned for phase II, where planning permission has been achieved.
...video courtesy of Norclad, the timber cladding supplier for the project, http://www.timbercladdingsolutions.co.uk/solarsense-zero-carbon-hub/