National energy firm ENGIE has joined forces with Sunderland housing association Gentoo to launch a pioneering gas project.

The companies have begun work on 'Core 364' which will see lifesaving sprinklers and ground source heat installed to 364 flats in Sunderland. It will include what is thought to be the largest gas replacement in high rise tower blocks in the UK.

The scheme forms part of a £9 million investment in the tower blocks.

Residents in Gentoo's seven blocks are set to benefit from significant energy bill savings as a result of uniquely heating both their home and water with renewable heat from the Earth's core.

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The move, which aims to maximise the fire safety of these seven tower blocks, will also see upgrades to the fire alarm and smoke detection systems in each of the blocks, as well as the installation of a state of the art sprinkler system.

ENGIE will manage all aspects of this project, working in partnership with contractor Kensa Heat Pumps Contracting, to install the new low carbon, high efficiency and cost-effective Ground Source Heat Pump system.

Andrew McIntosh, Regional Managing Director at ENGIE, said: "We have a great partnership with Gentoo and are delighted to help bring this innovative and energy efficient solution to all residents involved in this project. Our expertise in wide scale regeneration and energy projects will ensure this project is delivered effectively, providing North Tower residents with a modern heating system and enhanced fire safety features."

Gentoo's Chief Executive Officer, Nigel Wilson, added: "Gentoo is committed to providing safe and affordable housing for its tenants and I'm delighted to welcome the start of this important work, delivering real savings for our tenants and generating renewable heat for their homes."

(CM/JG)