The company has two demonstration units at its facility in Watford Park, one of which has a photovoltaic roof.
The result of a collaborative effort by a Swiss non-profit technology company, Userhaus AG, and the Scottish developer of prefabricated, energy-efficient housing, Tigh Grian Ltd, a 50-unit housing complex in Scotland is already under way utilizing the system.
Manufactured in Wales using a structural insulated panel system (SIPS), the 15 foot by 35 foot modules can be assembled in a variety of configurations of up to five-stories tall. Each unit is fully insulated and heated using a whole house mechanical heat recovery ventilation system, with wall-mounted electric panel heaters.
Dr. Stephen Wittkopf, managing director of Üserhuus AG, says, “The project on the BRE Innovation Park is showcasing a first-in-the-UK integrated, terracotta style cladding and roofing PV system which points the way for future housing – we are looking forward to seeing how it performs and we want to test other technologies.” ##
(Photo credit: globalconstructionreview-two modular models at BRE’s Watford Park. Unit on left has PV roof.)
