Department of Science and Innovation (DSI)
Eastern Cape Provincial Department of Human Settlement
Council for Science and Industrial Research (CSIR
Ndlambe Municipality
South Africa’s housing backlog remains a significant challenge in the post-apartheid era. To address this, the government has introduced various housing programs including the Reconstruction and Development Programme (RDP), Breaking New Ground (BNG), and Finance-Linked Individual Subsidy Programme (FLISP). As part of these efforts, the Eastern Cape Department of Human Settlements has implemented a policy brief advocating for the adoption of Innovative and Sustainable Building Technologies (ISBT) to help close the housing gap. To explore how sustainable and cost-effective solutions could reduce burdens on recipients of housing subsidies from the Department of Human Settlements, the Ecosun Green Village was launched as a pilot initiative by the Department of Science and Innovation (DSI), Eastern Cape (EC) Department of Human Settlements, Ndlambe Local Municipality, Nelson Mandela University and Potsdam University. The initiative brings together a variety of stakeholders, including universities that provide monitoring and research support - particularly in assessing the effectiveness of integrating grey water re-use and renewable energy technologies.
Unlike traditional or conventional subsidized housing developments, which typically rely on grid-dependent infrastructure and carbon intensive construction methods, this project explores innovative building technologies, renewable energy solutions, and resource efficient design. By integrating these elements, the initiative seeks to create a model for sustainable housing that reduces long-term costs for residents and minimizes environmental impact.
The site contains ten residences and a Multi-Purpose Center (MPC). They are constructed using bricks containing polystyrene and cement additives to enhance thermal insulation and reduce the environmental impact of traditional cement. A fiber plaster mesh is used to facilitate plastering. The dwellings are serviced with sustainable infrastructure services including electricity from solar energy, irrigation with recycled grey water, on-site separation of municipal waste for recycling, permeable stormwater drainage channels to prevent flooding and support groundwater replenishment, and communal gardens for outdoor recreation.
Revenues from events hosted at the on-site Multi-Purpose Center will be used to maintain the energy and grey water systems. The MPC will also have a digital hub to provide internet and telecommunication services to the eKuphumuleni Township community, creating a business opportunity for a local small, micro and medium enterprise (SMME).
The establishment and operation of Eco-Sun Green Village created numerous job opportunities for the local population. The initiative has catalyzed economic expansion in the Ndlambe Municipality, drawing investment and promoting local enterprises, such as small, micro and medium enterprises (SMMEs) providing catering services and event coordination at the Multi-Purpose Center. Additionally, the digital hub offers opportunities for the community to access internet services, technical support, and training programs. Moreover, training initiatives for local communities in renewable energy technologies and sustainable construction have enhanced individual capabilities and broadened employment opportunities.
Eco-Sun Green Village uses solar photovoltaic panels to provide sustainable electricity, thereby diminishing dependence on fossil fuels and lowering greenhouse gas emissions. Recycling grey water, implementing rainwater harvesting systems, and utilizing drought resistant landscaping techniques conserve water resources. Municipal solid waste recycling and waste reduction initiatives decrease the volumes of waste that would normally be sent to landfills. Green building strategies promote buildings that are energy efficient, have good thermal insulation, and use sustainable construction techniques, thereby minimizing environmental impact. The landscaping of Eco-Sun Green Village has revived native flora and allocated green areas, promoting local biodiversity. In the future, there are plans to grow food on parts of the site.
The initiative has helped to shift perceptions around the integration of sustainability principles into low cost housing among the community and governmental sectors. For the community, the pilot serves as a boundary object to facilitate debates and discussions about sustainable low cost housing in South Africa. Inspired by the success of Ndlambe Eco Sun Green Village, the Eastern Cape provincial department of Human Settlements has implemented a policy brief advocating for innovative and sustainable building technologies (ISBT), promoting their adoption for RDP housing.
This initiative has led to youth skills development as 11 local youth have been trained to operate and maintain the new technologies used in the Eco-Sun Green Village
The initiative has undergone several changes and evolutions. The previously selected area was in a flood zone, prompting a change in the positioning of the houses. Additional flood disaster prevention planning had to be incorporated, including permeable channels to keep the area dry and permit development.
The challenges of upscaling the project include beneficiaries’ reluctance to accept alternative building materials due to uncertainties regarding the durability of the structures, as they prefer dwellings constructed from brick and mortar. The project incorporates innovative construction methods, such as polystyrene and cement additives for improved insulation and strength, as well as fiber plaster mesh for enhanced plaster durability.
Another challenge relates to additional costs and a longer construction timeline for Ndlambe Eco Sun Green Village.
The NHBRC is withholding the Final Unit Report (FUR) as they have not yet inspected and approved the quality of the houses. Inspection and approval of the foundation, wall plate, roof, and completion stages of the housing project are required.
