The E.ON 2016 House is designed to enable practical assessments of the opportunities, implications and costs involved in modifying our existing older properties to minimise carbon emissions and reduce energy costs.

The research programme tests a range of possibilities focused on areas such as changes to the building fabric, heating and cooling techniques and use of energy.

The team, including experts in building energy systems, civil engineers and architects, will examine a range of technologies. These technologies will range from readily available measures, such as insulation, to advanced technologies including those making maximum use of new materials, renewable energy technology and energy management systems.

Key factors driving the project

•   Each year the average household in the UK emits over 5 tons of CO2

•   Existing homes use around 60% of their energy for space heating and a further 23% for hot water

•   Inefficient homes in the UK are currently wasting about £8 billion of energy each year.

•   There is an urgent need for affordable routes for existing home owners to reduce their energy consumption and adapt their properties to meet sustainable contemporary lifestyles

•   To significantly reduce overall CO2 emissions, existing homes will also need to move towards the Government’s target of zero carbon emissions from new properties after 2016.