The Block
The Block is an affordable housing complex being developed in Bellville, in the eastern metropolitan region of Cape Town, South Africa. Developed by Transcend Residential Property Fund, a South African real estate investment and development company, the project will retrofit 253 existing housing units. The units will be upgraded to a higher efficiency standard through the incorporation of technologies such as water-efficient plumbing features, reflective paint for roofs and walls, energy-efficient glass, heat pumps for hot water generation, LED lighting using lighting controls and smart electricity meters.
The project is part of the wider strategy of Transcend to invest in affordable housing across South Africa. Projects are located close to job opportunities, transport corridors and other amenities such as schools.
The Block has received a Preliminary EDGE Certificate from Green Building Council South Africa.
Predicted Savings of EDGE Certification
Energy Savings*
Water Savings
Less Embodied Energy in Materials
*Part of the energy efficiency percentage may be associated with virtual energy for comfort depending on the presence of heating and cooling systems. Note that virtual energy does not contribute savings to utility bills.
Technical Solutions
Energy
Reduced window to wall ratio, reflective paint for roof and external walls, low-E coated glass, heat pump for hot water generation, energy-saving lighting for internal and external spaces, lighting controls for common spaces, and smart electricity meters.
Water
Low-flow showerheads, low-flow faucets for kitchen sinks and washbasins, and dual flush for water closets.
Materials
Hollow core precast slab for floor construction, steel sheets on timber rafters for roofs, solid dense concrete block for internal and external walls, ceramic tiles for flooring, and aluminum window frames.
Location
The Block Bester Road Bellville Cape Town, Western Cape 7530 South Africa
Stage
Preliminary EDGE Certificate
Date
November 1, 2021
Floor Space (m2)
21,582.72
Total CO2 Savings (annually)
136.77
Project Auditor
Sample Auditor
Project Expert
Sample Expert
Certified By
Green Building Council of South Africa