Sustainable energy solutions firm Active has awarded the contract for the construction of its new corporate headquarters to Stewart Milne Construction (SMC).

The £3m Active Renewable Energy Centre, located in the Minto Commercial Park, Altens, Aberdeen, is expected to be one of the most energy-efficient and sustainable buildings in the UK. By incorporating the latest building techniques and renewable technologies it is anticipated to have a carbon footprint of zero.

Ian Nicol managing director of Active said: "This is a very exciting time as all of our planning and research comes together and the project is literally starting to take shape. It was important for us to work together with a construction team who understand what we are trying to achieve and have the enthusiasm and skills to do the project justice."

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As well as being designed to take advantage of natural light, the Active Renewable Energy Centre will integrate ground source heat pumps, solar panels, low energy computer servers, rainwater harvesters, a 75kw wind turbine and road energy technology which extracts heat from tarmac surfaces such as car parks.

SMC operates as a main contractor from Grampian to the Central Belt on major projects including schools, healthcare buildings, commercial developments and housing. Their approach is to work as part of the project team to meet all technical requirements and achieve the highest standards of service and delivery.

David Barber, operations director, Stewart Milne Construction said: "Working with Active to deliver an energy efficient corporate headquarters is an ideal opportunity for our teams to demonstrate their skills and in depth knowledge in this developing sector of the construction industry.

"We have been involved in a number of energy efficient buildings in the past but none have employed such a wide range of renewable technologies. Excellent project management skills will be more important than ever to ensure the smooth completion of this project."

The Active Renewable Energy Centre will be completed by April 2009. It will have the potential to accommodate up to 120 staff as Active continues to expand its air-conditioning, ventilation and energy efficiency operations in Aberdeen and throughout the North east of Scotland.

(GK/JM)