The Elephant and Castle regeneration scheme is set to establish new standards of environmental responsibility in urban redevelopment.

Brian Dunlop Associates have worked closely with the London Borough of Southwark to establish strategies for energy efficiency, the deployment of renewable energy technology and a move towards a decentralised low carbon energy supply capable of delivering heat, cooling and power to 6.5 million square feet of mixed use development.

The sustainable community energy system will connect individual sites to a community heating network compatible with many forms of renewable energy, including locally derived sources of renewable fuel, and capable of being extended to serve the wider community.

A special purpose Multi-utility Services Company (MUSCo) will be established to deliver investment in sustainable energy systems and deliver low carbon energy services, a supply of untreated water for non-potable use and a 'fibre to the home' data network to residents and businesses within the area.

Southwark Council's executive member for regeneration Cllr Richard Thomas said: "We have made a commitment to keep carbon emissions to their current levels despite almost tripling the number of homes and businesses in Elephant and Castle.

"This means coming up with creative ways of providing locally generated heat and power. We are in a unique position to be able to build this into the plans for the Elephant and Castle regeneration scheme before a brick is laid.

"The scheme will set new standards in green development on a scale not previously seen in the UK and will demonstrate that building new homes and businesses can be compatible with protecting the environment."