Electric wallpaper is currently undergoing testing in Scotland as a potential substitute for central heating in social housing properties. Heating contributes to over 36% of total carbon emissions in the UK, with Scottish homes being among the oldest and least insulated in the country. Glasgow Live reports that there are approximately 70,000 flats in Glasgow alone, and the average home in the city loses heat three times faster than in many other European countries.
The trial of electric wallpaper is taking place in 12 tenement properties in Glasgow, which are owned and managed by the West of Scotland Housing Association. The project, a collaboration between academics, the housing association, and Glasgow City Council, with funding from Scotland Beyond Net Zero, aims to evaluate the effectiveness of electric wallpaper as a cleaner heat source and a potential replacement for traditional central heating systems. The initiative was launched this year, and data on energy consumption is currently being collected to assess its impact.
Electric wallpaper is applied to the ceiling and then painted over, with tenants providing positive feedback on its performance since installation. Dr Ahmad Taha from the University of Glasgow and Dr Alejandro Moreno-Rangel from the University of Strathclyde are utilizing technologies such as the Internet of Things and AI-enabled data analytics to gather information on efficiency, comfort, and feedback from tenants. The Internet of Things enables the exchange of data between interconnected physical objects through the Internet.
Andrew Kubski, the director of development and asset management for West of Scotland Housing Association, expressed satisfaction with the positive feedback received from tenants regarding the electric wallpaper. Councillor Ruairi Kelly, convener for neighbourhood services and assets at Glasgow City Council, highlighted the importance of finding more efficient heating solutions for the large number of tenement flats in Glasgow to work towards a net-zero future. Professor Lisanne Gibson, vice-principal of research at the University of Dundee and chair of Scotland Beyond Net Zero’s seed fund committee, emphasized the necessity of bold and integrated approaches to achieve Scotland’s ambitious net-zero targets.
In conclusion, the trial of electric wallpaper as an alternative to central heating in social housing properties in Glasgow represents a significant step towards a more sustainable and energy-efficient future. By exploring innovative solutions like electric wallpaper, Scotland is demonstrating its commitment to reducing carbon emissions and moving closer to achieving its net-zero goals.
Insights and Summary:
The use of electric wallpaper as a potential replacement for central heating in social housing properties in Glasgow reflects a progressive approach towards reducing carbon emissions and enhancing energy efficiency. Such innovative trials and collaborations between academia, housing associations, and local authorities are essential in addressing environmental challenges and working towards a sustainable future. By investing in research and technology, Scotland is paving the way for cleaner and more efficient heating solutions, contributing to the global efforts to combat climate change.