The innovation award for building technology

Winner

With the government demanding more renewable energy supply and lower CO2 emissions, the appearance of Powergen’s micro combined heat and power unit onto the market could be timely. The unit is targeted at the domestic market, is the size of a washing machine, and costs around £600 more than a conventional boiler to install. The judges said of the product: “This is the way forward. It could have a huge potential impact on the environment. Developers will be able to put the capital cost of the product onto the home and charge it as a premium, so they could take it up immediately. It is a true innovation that could become a recognised product in the home within a very few years.”

Finalists

Higgins is increasing its knowledge base in modern methods of construction and has worked with consultant Mtech to form a company-wide innovation development initiative. Modern methods of construction now account for an increasing share of the company’s turnover, and the company is targeting even more.

The judges said, “The company showed a rigorous approach to changing their business.”

Manchester Methodist Housing Group

A housing scheme for teenage mothers and babies provided the testbed for the innovative construction methods of Panablok concrete wall panel system, and Gebrik brick cladding panels. Manchester Methodist Housing Group is so pleased with the trial it plans to reuse the technology for a similar project. “This is a genuinely innovative technique,” said the judges. “Its very low heating costs are producing real benefits for occupiers.”

Willmott Dixon

New technology such as timber and light steel framing and pre-assembled components are changing Willmott Dixon’s business. The company was the first to introduce the Fusion light steel frame system to the UK. The judges commented: “They showed dramatic benefits to the business from use of modern methods of construction. Benefits like the 30% reduction in site programmes are very impressive.”