Cala completes first net zero-enabled home

Cala Homes has completed its first net zero carbon-enabled home at its Hampton Lakes scheme in Peterborough, which according to the housebuilder, will potentially use 95% less primary energy than a Cala home built to current regulations.

The four-bedroom property will soon be occupied, allowing the business to monitor a “lived-in” home for its technical viability and user experience of sustainable technologies. Cala will also collect qualitative feedback from the residents throughout the summer and winter months.

Cala’s project features technologies already trialled and implemented on its sites across the UK, in partnership with subcontractors. Features have also been informed by desktop studies and initial comparative testing against the same Cala house type delivered to current Building Regulations.

The Hampton Lakes home has been constructed using modern methods of construction, including timber frame and low carbon bricks. There is also triple glazing and enhanced insulation within.

Its other features include an air source heat pump, photovoltaic (PV) panels, PV hot water diverter, aerated shower, battery storage, smart lighting, waste water heat recovery and mechanical ventilation with heat recovery.

Biodiversity measures outside the home include bird and bat boxes, bug hotels, rain gardens and a dedicated vegetable patch.