An exploration of design alternatives using dynamic thermal modelling software of an exemplar, affordable, low carbon residential development constructed by a registered social landlord in a rural area of Wales

Pembrokeshire Housing Association (PHA) a registered social landlord, based in Haverfordwest, Wales, UK, have developed six low carbon houses to meet Code for Sustainable Homes (CfSH) level four, as part of an exemplar scheme for the Welsh Government's CfSH pilot project. A tried and tested methodology was adopted in developing the PHA's pilot project houses that meant alternative low and zero carbon design methods were not fully explored. This paper employs comparative analysis to evaluate the final PHA scheme against other design options in order to assess alternative low energy approaches that might have been considered during the design of the project. Dynamic thermal modelling is used to assess and compare the design options in which the following are considered: building form; use of the thermal mass within the building fabric; design of the external envelope; and passive solar design strategies. The discussion considers the implications of the results with regard to approaches to low carbon design, as part of a doctoral research project, by the lead author on to develop innovative, affordable, low carbon housing in rural areas of Wales, UK.