Competition launched to find cheap energy efficient homes - 04/03/2010
A design competition has been launched in Northern Ireland to find the most efficient homes that make the most of cheap energy.
As part of the competition, architects will have to build 70 energy efficient homes in Killynure, near Carryduff, to the code five rating for sustainable homes.
The scheme is a joint initiative between the Department for Social Development, Oakley Housing Group, the Royal Society of Ulster Architects and the Housing Executive.
Margaret Ritchie, Northern Ireland social development minister, said: "When I launched the New Housing Agenda in 2008, I made it clear that in addition to building more homes, we also needed to build more sustainable homes."
She added that the latest initiative builds on the work that has already been done over the past two years and will play a role in helping households reduce bills from energy suppliers as part of the transition to a low carbon economy.
The competition is open to expressions of interest from architectural design teams and construction work is expected to begin in spring 2011.
If you want to find out more about switching energy suppliers and how you could save up to £378 in minutes, click here.
Save up to £300 on your gas & electricity bills at energyhelpline.com
Compare prices from all energy suppliers to find your best deal