Fairview Social Housing Scheme

The Fairview Social Housing Scheme in Dublin 3 is a project aimed at addressing both the housing crisis and climate change in Ireland. It stands out as the first social housing scheme in the country to achieve the highest rating on the Building Energy Rating (BER) scale. The project demonstrates that it is possible to meet nearly zero energy building targets, combat climate change, and provide healthy, fuel poverty-proof homes for the most vulnerable in society.

Key details of the Fairview Social Housing Scheme:

Energy efficiency: The housing scheme is designed to be highly energy-efficient and aims to meet nearly zero energy building standards. The Building Energy Rating (BER) for this project is A1, which is the highest possible rating, indicating exceptional energy performance.

Low or zero heating costs: The project is designed to have incredibly low or zero estimated annual heating costs. This means that residents of these social housing units will benefit from reduced energy bills, if not entirely free heating. The incorporation of a photovoltaic (PV) array likely contributes to these cost savings.

Social housing focus: The primary goal of the project is to house vulnerable individuals and families, ensuring they have access to high-quality, comfortable, and energy-efficient homes.

Construction methods: The building is constructed using aerated concrete blocks with external insulation and foamed glass insulation in the foundation. These construction methods help to maintain energy efficiency and thermal comfort.

Featured in Passive House Magazine: For more information on this project click here to the feature in Passive House Magazine.

Product installed:

Nilan Compact P unit: The heating and ventilation system in use for this project is the Nilan Compact P unit, which includes an exhaust air heat pump combined with passive heat recovery ventilation. This system helps maintain indoor air quality and temperature while recovering heat from the extracted air. It contributes to the project's exceptional energy efficiency and comfort levels.

The Fairview Social Housing Scheme in Dublin 3 serves as a notable example of addressing both social and environmental challenges by providing vulnerable populations with high-quality, energy-efficient, and cost-effective homes. The use of the Nilan Compact P unit adds to the project's energy efficiency and sustainability, aligning with the goals of nearly zero energy building standards and climate change mitigation.