The project, named ‘Core 364’, is being delivered by Sunderland-based housing association, Gentoo, with its energy and regeneration partner, ENGIE, as part of a £9 million investment in the tower blocks.
Residents in Gentoo’s seven blocks are set to benefit from energy bill savings as a result of heating both their home and water with renewable heat from the Earth’s core.
The move, which aims to maximise the fire safety of these seven tower blocks, will also see upgrades to the fire alarm and smoke detection systems in each of the blocks, as well as the installation of a sprinkler system.
ENGIE will manage all aspects of the project, working in partnership with contractor Kensa Heat Pumps Contracting, to install the new low-carbon, high-efficiency Ground Source Heat Pump system.
Andrew McIntosh, Regional Managing Director at ENGIE, says: “We have a great partnership with Gentoo and are delighted to help bring this innovative and energy efficient solution to all residents involved in this project.
“Our expertise in wide scale regeneration and energy projects will ensure this project is delivered effectively, providing North Tower residents with a modern heating system and enhanced fire safety features.”
Andrew McIntosh, Regional Managing Director, ENGIE (left) with Sunderland City Council Leader, Cllr Graeme Miller and Gentoo’s CEO, Nigel Wilson at Gentoo’s tower blocks in Roker, Sunderland.