Homerton Playbarn

Funded by grant giving trusts and the national lottery, London's first solar powered building (130m2) was built in 1995 at Homerton Grove Adventure Playground. Grid connected, it generates solar electricity and relies on solar for water and space heating. Extensive use of recycled materials all help reduce the embodied energy of this power station building.

11m2 of roof mounted photovoltaic cells and a minimal electricity load generating more electricity per annum than it uses. Grid connected with a two way meter for ease of use in the city the building imports and exports power automatically.

Constructive Individuals built the building as a four week volunteer training course in November 1995 and finished it using subcontracted labour thereafter. The company raised £17,000 of sponsored materials and services.

A second phase has just been completed, refurbishing and installing a turf roof on an adjacent delapidated concrete classroom. Designed and project managed by Constructive Individuals.