Super energy-saving homes costing only £350 a year in bills proposed for Bristol

Almost a dozen super energy efficent homes could be built on the site of an old coach works in east Bristol, after plans were submitted for approval to Bristol City Council. The Passivahus-standard homes could cost £350 in annual energy bills.

Each of the 11 homes proposed for land off Grove Road in Fishponds would be built to the internationally recognised energy and comfort standard, with very high levels of insulation, triple-glazed windows and an airtight, draught-free structure.

Designed in Germany, the three-bedroom homes would be put together off-site before being transported and ‘bolted’ into the small cul-de-sac development. With energy bills rising and people concerned about their carbon footprint, developer Hus Haus hopes they will be a success.

The company hopes the homes could be in place for families to move in by the end of the year. The site is an old coach works, but is currently used by Bristol Upcycles which is moving base.

James Hellmann, managing director of Hus Haus said: “As a business we are convinced that building great homes to Passivhaus standards is the best way to provide people with beautiful and comfortable homes that are great to live in and economical to run.

“In the UK we need to change our attitudes to house building and the standards for new homes and, as a business, we are trying to lead the way.”

The homes would be spread over three levels with an open space kitchen and living room on ground level. There would be two bedrooms on the second level, and one bedroom with an ensuite on top.

Each property would also have space for one car and a balcony and terrace. The likely price range for the homes is between £430k and £460k.

To bring down energy costs, the homes will have a large solar roof panel, ‘smart’ energy management systems plus hot water and heating through a heat pump. Hus Haus say the total annual combined energy bills for each home, including standing charge, is estimated £350 or less

There are 1,500 Passivhaus buildings in the UK currently. This would be the biggest development of the energy efficient standard homes in the South West, if planning permission is given.