Mixed use scheme’s sustainable power supply gets vice-presidential seal of approval

The Quadrant 3 redevelopment of offices, retail, residential, restaurant and hotel space in the Regent Street Quadrant in London has become the first in the UK to install an efficient and sustainable fuel cell that draws its power from the same technology used to provide energy to space shuttles during flights. It’s so impressed former US Vice President Al Gore he’s headquartered his sustainable investment firm, Generation Investment Management at Quadrant 3. The building’s sustainable design was an important factor in the firm’s decision to move to the scheme with Mr Gore commenting that the developer, The Crown Estate demonstrated a “sophisticated commitment to sustainability”.

Emitting 38 per cent less carbon dioxide than using electricity from the grid and heat from gas fired boilers, the 300 KWe molten carbonate cell is the most efficient of its kind in Europe. The fuel cell forms part of one of the world’s most sophisticated central energy systems which serves over 46,500 m² (500,000 ft²) of offices, retail, residential, restaurant and hotel space in the Regent Street Quadrant area.

As a sustainable power supply, the cell converts natural gas into electricity through an electrochemical process which avoids creating any of the by-products of combustion, drastically reducing environmentally harmful emissions. A projected 350 tonnes of carbon dioxide emissions will be saved per year.

As well as reducing the building’s carbon footprint, the electrochemical process makes the cell highly efficient as no energy is wasted between the power station and the building, or in moving the mechanical parts needed to induce combustion.

Head of Development Alastair Smart said: “Occupiers are increasingly looking to operate more sustainably and this includes factoring in the green credentials of their premises. The fuel cell is a real flag in the sand, demonstrating what is possible in terms of energy efficiency and carbon reduction, and it will only enhance the building’s reputation as a world leading example of sustainable development.”

The £400m Quadrant 3 scheme is a model for sustainable central London development, incorporating substantial public realm improvements as well as a sophisticated energy generation system.

The sustainable power fuel cell installation was completed by Edinburgh-based Logan Energy. Stanhope was the development manager for Quadrant 3. Sir Robert McAlpine was the main contractor and Aecom was the mechanical and electrical consultant.