Through collaboration and cutting-edge technology, the Future Homes project is shaping the future of housing sustainability —reducing energy consumption, cutting carbon emissions, and driving innovation in construction.
The Future Homes project, based in the Greater Manchester City Region, has established a collaborative centre of excellence dedicated to revolutionising the construction industry and reducing the environmental impact of housing. Recognising the urgent need to address climate change, this initiative leverages innovative technologies and sustainable materials to create zero-carbon-ready homes and improve the energy efficiency of existing housing stock.
Funding of £3.54 million from the Innovation Accelerator (IA) programme was awarded to the University of Salford, The University of Manchester, and industry partners, including Barratt Redrow, Saint-Gobain, and Bellway. This initiative has generated significant returns on investment through job creation, industry partnerships, and substantial in-kind contributions.
The funding enabled the creation of the Future Homes Innovation Accelerator, an industry-driven initiative aimed at promoting economic growth, sustainability, and enhanced innovation capabilities within the construction and housing sector.
Inspiration
Future Homes’ mission is to transform the housing sector by addressing key issues:
- Reducing greenhouse gas emissions
- Enhancing energy efficiency in new and existing homes
- Developing sustainable construction materials
- Supporting SME innovators in the net-zero housing sector
Researchers have examined how construction firms and policymakers can better implement and scale sustainable housing innovations. Combined with dedicated policy engagement and training initiatives, this research fosters productivity and employment growth as green construction practices become more embedded in the Greater Manchester City Region.
The initiative also explores the role of smart energy technologies in making homes more energy efficient. Through partnerships with energy innovators and policymakers, Future Homes is creating smarter, healthier, and more sustainable living environments.
Innovation and Impact
The first Future Homes innovation call is projected to drive substantial economic and environmental benefits:
- 50 jobs created or safeguarded in Greater Manchester over five years
- 24 SME partners supported through the Future Homes Innovation Accelerator
- Co-investment of £3.5 million secured
- Reduction of 75,000 tonnes of CO2 emissions over five years
- Attraction of major industry partners, including Panasonic, , Vaillant, Worcester Bosch, and the Heat Pump Association
- Development of linkages between the University of Salford, The University of Manchester, the Energy Innovation Agency, and Greater Manchester Combined Authority (GMCA)
Regional Collaboration
Future Homes is spearheading a UK-wide cross-regional collaboration, engaging with national policymakers, industry leaders, and international research partners. Key collaborations include:
- Contributions to Greater Manchester’s Retrofit Taskforce and the Totally Affordable Net Zero (TANZ) Housing Programme.
- Influencing national policy through engagement with DESNZ, MHCLG, DSIT, DBT, and the Cabinet Office.
- International research engagement through the International Energy Agency (IEA), including leadership roles in Annex 94 (Building Performance), participation in Annex 96 (Energy Flexibility), and Annex 63 (Heat Pump Acoustics).
Conclusion
The Future Homes project has demonstrated a significant return on investment, positively impacting economic growth, job creation, and sustainability in the construction and housing sectors. Through its collaborative approach, the initiative is pioneering advancements in energy efficiency, sustainable materials, and smart housing solutions, solidifying the Greater Manchester City Region as a leader in net-zero housing innovation.