The Centre for Net Zero High Density Buildings (CeNZ‑HighDB)

A research centre that supports and develops Net Zero solutions for high density buildings and streetscapes. It will test new prototypes and retrofit buildings with low-carbon materials, heating and cooling systems, and energy storage technologies.

A Green Economy Centre funded by UKRI, CeNZ-HighDB is a collaboration between five Universities across the Central Belt of Scotland, with industry engagement also forming a key area of focus. It aims to accelerate Net Zero inclusive whole system approaches, supporting business green growth, skills, jobs, and communities via Thematic Working Groups (TWGs).

“There is a critical net zero challenge for our cities and towns, where densely packed buildings and complex streetscapes make a significant contribution to annual carbon emissions. The retrofit of buildings will become one of the largest activities in the global construction industry and this centre will help the UK lead the way on new green economy solutions, enabling business growth and preparing for the skills and jobs ahead”.

Professor Sean Smith, PI – Centre for Net Zero High Density Buildings

Latest News

New Research Paper Published

9 Feb 2026

CeNZ-HighDB is delighted to share a new research paper, co-authored by Dr Azlizawati Ibrahim and Dr Julio Bros-Williamson of Thematic Working Group I, alongside Dr Kate Carter and Prof John Brennan of the Edinburgh School of Architecture and Landscape Architecture....

START Hackathon

16 Jan 2026

CeNZ-HighDB is delighted to be an official partner of the upcoming START Hackathon, which will be held at Edinburgh Futures Institute on 27th February. The START Hackathon is a one-day innovation bootcamp designed to empower 50 S4–S6 students to tackle real community...

CeNZ-HighDB at the SPEERI Annual Conference 2025

8 Dec 2025

The Centre for Net Zero High Density Buildings attended the SPEERI Annual Conference 2025 on 26 November, at Dynamic Earth in Edinburgh. It was a day filled with interesting talks, and lots of interaction at our stand. The Scottish Partnership in Energy and...

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