Firms team up to develop low-carbon homes

Power firm E.ON and housebuilder Barratt Developments are currently working on a number of low-carbon and zero-carbon housing developments across the UK.

It is thought that the project will initially focus on ten sites currently being developed by Barratt.

Using the utilities firm's expertise in low-carbon technology solutions, homes and communities will be kitted out with a range of energy-efficient solitions, including combined heat and power plants, as well as micro renewable energy generation technology for homes.

"This collaboration will provide us with a competitive edge as finding the best low carbon energy solutions is a vital part of future housing developments," said Mark Clare, chief executive officer at Barratt Developments.

"It will enable us to provide the lowest cost and most reliable way of cutting emissions for our customers," he added.

Among the sites selected for the new scheme is Hanham Hall near Bristol, which is rumoured to be the UK's first zero-carbon community and will feature homes with a number of environmentally-friendly features.

The site is currently owned by English Partnerships