Energy efficiency is being applied in numerous ways, from building insulation and LED lighting to high-energy-class electrical appliances. A company based in Romsey, Hampshire, has developed an innovative solution that could further contribute to the decarbonization of homes and the reduction of energy costs. This solution is electric wallpaper, designed to replace traditional gas heating systems.
The secret behind the efficiency of this heating wallpaper lies in copper strips enriched with graphene or carbon, forming a very thin, electrically conductive surface capable of emitting infrared heat. Unlike conventional radiators, which first heat the air in a room, the infrared heat emitted by this wallpaper works similarly to sunlight – it does not directly heat the air but instead warms surfaces, objects, and people, creating a pleasant feeling of warmth.
These wallpapers are installed on ceilings, and their energy efficiency is confirmed by the fact that they require only one to three minutes to heat a space. NextGen Heating, the company behind this technology, highlights additional benefits. The wallpapers help reduce moisture and mold, improving indoor air quality.
Aside from energy efficiency benefits, questions have been raised regarding the environmental footprint of this system throughout its life cycle. Since the project is still in the pilot phase, initial assessments suggest that materials such as graphene and copper can be recycled, reducing waste. However, certain aspects still require further analysis, such as the amount of energy needed for the production of electric wallpaper.
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Pilot Project in Glasgow
Last year, the University of Glasgow, the University of Strathclyde, the West of Scotland Housing Association (WSHA), and Glasgow City Council, with financial support from Scotland Beyond Net Zero—a coalition of climate and sustainability experts from Scottish universities—launched a pilot project in Glasgow to test the efficiency of electric wallpaper. The pilot project is being conducted in 12 residential properties within traditional housing buildings.
The University of Glasgow reported that homes in Scotland are among the oldest in the world and the worst insulated in Europe. Heating buildings contributes to as much as 36% of total carbon emissions in Scotland and across the UK. Additionally, data shows that the average home in this region loses heat up to three times faster than homes in many European countries. Furthermore, 84 percent of households rely on central heating systems powered by fossil fuels.
Given these factors, Scotland introduced a new heating standard for new buildings last year, requiring them to incorporate environmentally friendly heating systems. This highlights the importance of the pilot project, which, if proven successful, could further evolve towards large-scale production.
Although the pilot project is still ongoing, initial results indicate that residents have responded positively.
Katarina Vuinac
