The award-winning concept was developed by architect Rob Goodburn who set out to create a zero-carbon, green property. He enlisted the help of local Edinburgh solar specialists Solar Kingdom to aid evaluation and planning to optimise the integrated use of the technologies. Solar Kingdom were further involved with the installation and commissioning. 

The energy-saving home was presented with the Best Integrated Renewable System as part of the Next Energy News category at the Solar Power Portal Awards 2015 for “those who have taken a holistic approach to green technologies, integrating a number of complementary technologies to create an optimum solution.” 

The Edinburgh home includes extensive insulation, triple glazed windows and doors, a whole house heat recovery system, LED lighting, solar PV and solar thermal panels integrated into the roof covering and a renewable heating system. 

Peter Randall from Solar Kingdom said: “Working with Rob on this project has been a joy. He has the most in-depth knowledge of both building performance and the positive impact renewable technologies can have of any architect I have worked with. Combining this with my own expertise allowed us to fully realise the project's potential. The end result is a great looking house anyone would aspire to own.” 

After Rob Goodburn and his family have spent a period of time at the house, a study is to be carried out with a local university and the Building Research Establishment (BRE) in order to assess the building’s performance.