Off the Wall

COULD ECO-FRIENDLY WALLPAPER BETTER HEAT OUR HOMES?

(Picture credits NexGen Heating)

Over the past few months, a project, funded by 'Scotland beyond net zero' has been trialling an innovative new heating solution in badly insulated, hard to heat homes. In tenemants built before 1919 in Glasgow, they have been exploring the possibility of replacing gas heating with eco-friendly electric wall-paper (which can also be combined with solar panels and batteries to produce a zero carbon solution.)

This special wallpaper, which is quick and easy to install, is a fraction of a millimetre thick, is fireproof and water-resistant and when affixed to the ceiling can provide warmth within 1-2 minutes, according to its developer, NexGen Heating. Emitting invisible infra-red, the wallpaper is made up of a combination of copper strips and graphene or carbon to create a surface through which it can conduct electricity. This provides a gas-free heat source which is also thought to improve air quality, thus generating less damp and mould.

Whilst data analytics are being used collect information on efficiency, including heat retention and energy consumption, tenants have also been asked to provide feedback on the comfort level provided. It appears that so far the results have been positive.

Speaking in mid October 2024, Andrew Kubski, from the West of Scotland Housing Association said, "We have been trialling this technology for a few months now and have had excellent feedback from our tenants where this has been installed." He added "We are delighted to have the opportunity to work with both the University of Glasgow and University of Strathclyde to bring a thorough academic lens to the effectiveness of the electric wallpaper."

Councillor Ruairi Kelly, Convener for Neighbourhood Services and Assets at Glasgow City Council, added: "Glasgow has around 70,000 tenement flats, so finding new solutions to more efficiently heat them is vital to reaching a net zero future. Innovative pilot projects such as this are vital when considering how best to help tackle the issues of energy costs and emissions in Glasgow's homes."

Footnote: 'Scotland beyond net zero' are a collaboration of climate and sustainability experts from Scotland's universities who are 'mobilising research, data and innovation to accelerate Scotland's transition to Beyond Net Zero'. This project is just one of eight new research collaborations.