Infrastructure

A low carbon development typically has particular infrastructure requirements that will need to be considered and addressed at the masterplanning stage.

Community energy systems are generally considered a key technology for achieving the high carbon savings required to meet longterm UK and EU targets. Community heating and/or cooling systems allow for large-scale renewable heat plants to serve dwellings and other blocks. They require a network of insulated pipework, varying types of heat distribution system at dwelling level and an appropriately located energy centre. The latter may require access for fuel deliveries and in the case of biomass for fuel storage as well.

Large central storage tanks may be required for communal hot water and rain or grey water, collection or even waste water treatment. On-site electricity generation through CHP or renewables may require a private wire network.

Further details on community heating and private wire can be found in the Low Carbon Technologies section.