GTC, an independent utility infrastructure provider, has been appointed by residential property development company Barratt Redrow to provide smart home energy and utility infrastructure at Cosmeston Farm in Penarth, Wales.
The 576-home development is described as “the UK’s largest net zero carbon housing site”, designed to exceed the Future Homes Standard. The project forms part of wider efforts to reduce carbon emissions in residential construction.
GTC’s system will integrate ground source heat pumps, smart controls, battery storage, and on-site electricity and water networks. The infrastructure is intended to support lower energy demand while enabling residents to manage and monitor their energy use.
The company will also oversee monitoring of energy performance across the site, collecting data from heating systems, solar PV, batteries, and network infrastructure. This data will be used to assess whether the development meets its net zero carbon in operation target.
Cardiff University will independently review performance data from the site.
Integrated systems support net zero housing
The development includes shared ground source heat pump infrastructure, using boreholes to provide heating and hot water to each property.
Homes will also be equipped with battery storage to support the use of renewable electricity and respond to time-of-use tariffs.
The electricity network is designed to support low-carbon technologies while reducing overall grid demand. Water services will also be delivered through an integrated network.
Energy monitoring and control systems will allow residents to track and adjust their usage, supporting efficient operation and grid stability.
GTC worked with Barratt Redrow during the early stages of the project to develop the technical and commercial approach.
John Marsh, Chief Innovation Officer at GTC, comments, “Cosmeston showcases the power of bringing together proven technologies and investment to create affordable, zero-carbon smart homes.
“By combining heat pumps, smart controls, solar, batteries, and flexibility into one solution, we are delivering a blueprint for future-proofed, net-zero-carbon homes at scale.”
Oliver Novakovic, Technical & Innovation Director at Barratt Redrow, says, “Cosmeston represents a transformational step in how we design and build the next generation of zero-carbon communities.
“By working closely with GTC from the outset, we’ll be able to integrate advanced smart home technologies into the fabric of the development, ensuring our customers benefit from lower energy bills, greater comfort, and long-term resilience.”
Jayne Bryant, Cabinet Secretary for Housing and Local Government, adds, “This landmark development sets a new standard for sustainable housing not only in Wales but across the UK and beyond.”
GTC states it will own and operate the infrastructure, providing billing and network services to residents under existing regulatory frameworks, including oversight from Ofgem.