Planning given for eco-home pilot scheme

An insulation specialist-turned-developer hopes to prove that affordable eco homes can be delivered at scale, after securing planning permission for a small pilot in Hampshire. SCIS Group has received planning permission to build two three-bedroom homes in Gosport, which have been designed to reach EPC A ratings and cost as little as £50 per month in energy bills. The pilot scheme is designed as a showcase for developers and SCIS hopes it will lead to a scale-up in its future housebuilding activity. The properties will incorporate technology including: Air source heat pumps Solar panels Rainwater recycling Hot water recovery/recycling Underfloor heating Energy efficient windows and doors SCIS said construction would take the same amount of time as for a standard three-bedroom home. Nic Gillanders, SCIS chairman, said: “Our pilot scheme aims to prove that it’s possible for developers to build-high quality homes that are affordable and feature the latest technology to make them more environmentally friendly, without increasing the amount of time to construct when compared to a traditional three-bedroom home. “These homes are more than just a commitment to sustainability; they are a practical example of how eco homes can truly be the future of construction.” He added: “We’re eager to showcase these homes and gather the insights needed to scale up this initiative.” SCIS Group was founded in 2010 and bought by Gillanders in 2018. It recently branched into renewable energy installations through the acquisition of Cotswold Energy Group in 2023, which continues to operate as a standalone brand and provide renewable energy solutions such as ground and air source heat pumps and solar panelling for homes and businesses. Check out planning decisions in Hampshire >> Nic Gillanders photo © SCIS Group