Energy-Efficient Design

Sustainable Architecture for Cardiff & South Wales Net-Zero Future

At Jamatek, we design homes and buildings that reduce energy bills, carbon emissions, and environmental impact. Serving Cardiff, South Wales, our energy-efficient solutions align with Welsh Government decarbonisation goals and Cardiff Council’s 2034 EPC targets, ensuring compliance with evolving sustainability standards.

 

Why Energy Efficiency Matters in Cardiff

  • EPC targets: Cardiff Council aims for EPC A ratings in social housing by 2034, requiring upgrades to insulation, heating, and renewables.

  • Cost savings: Energy-efficient homes in Cardiff can reduce heating bills by 30–50% through passive design and renewable tech.

  • Future-proofing: With Redrow and other developers rolling out air-source heat pumps and underfloor heating as standard, eco-friendly design is becoming the norm.

 

Our Energy-Efficient Design Services

Passive House Principles

We maximize natural resources to minimize energy demand:

  • Super-insulation (U-values ≤ 0.15 W/m²K) using materials like structural insulated panels (SIPS).

  • Airtight construction (≤ 0.6 ACH at 50 Pascals) to prevent heat loss.

  • Solar gain optimization with south-facing glazing and shading.

 

Renewable Energy Integration

  • Air-source heat pumps paired with underfloor heating.

  • Solar PV systems (4+ kWp) integrated into rooflines for aesthetics.

  • Mechanical ventilation with heat recovery (MVHR) to recycle warmth from exhaust air.

 

Eco-Friendly Materials

  • Low-carbon cement and recycled steel to reduce embodied carbon.

  • Reclaimed Welsh slate and FSC-certified timber for local sustainability.

 

Cardiff Case Studies in Energy Efficiency

 

Solcer House (Cardiff University)

This prototype home combines:

  • SIPS panels and external insulated render for ultra-low heat loss.

  • Transpired solar collectors and 4.3 kWp PV panels integrated into walls/roofs.

  • Smart energy management to balance grid imports with on-site generation.

 

Redrow’s Eco Homes in Radyr

Redrow’s Maes yr Haf and Plas Ty Draw developments feature:

  • Air-source heat pumps as standard.

  • Triple-glazed windows and enhanced insulation.

  • EV charging points for future-ready living.

 

The Energy-Efficient Design Process

  1. Site Analysis
    Assess solar exposure, wind patterns, and existing insulation.

  2. Concept Design
    Create 3D models with thermal bridging analysis and energy simulations.

  3. Material Selection
    Specify low-carbon products like hempcrete or sheep’s wool insulation.

  4. Renewable System Design
    Size heat pumps, solar arrays, and battery storage for optimal ROI.

  5. Post-Occupancy Monitoring
    Track energy use via smart meters and adjust systems for peak efficiency.

 

Cardiff’s Green Infrastructure Initiatives

  • Cardiff Heat Network: Uses waste incinerator heat to warm homes in Cardiff Bay, cutting emissions by 80%.

  • Coed Caerdydd: Planting 82,000 trees to absorb 2,540 tonnes of CO₂ by 2124.

  • Solar Grants: Welsh Government funding for PV installations in social housing.

 

Ready to Build a Sustainable Home?

If you're looking for Energy Efficient architects in Cardiff, our architectural designers in Cardiff supports homeowners, developers, and design teams in delivering sustainable, net-zero projects. Book your free carbon audit today.