The original regeneration plans proposed a Multi-Utility Services Co. (MUSCo) renewable energy plant, which was supposed to provide "the generation of renewable energy" in a "sustainable network of heat, water and telecoms" for all new developments at the Elephant. The MUSCo was going to generate 100% renewable energy from a biomass energy centre making the Elephant & Castle regeneration a 'zero carbon' development with 'carbon positive' homes.
The MUSCo was also going to supply the new Aylesbury estate development and the existing Salisbury and Newington housing estates, making it the largest biomass-fuelled district heating network in London. The plans were so cutting edge that they were praised by Bill Clinton and included in the C40 Climate Positive Development Programme._ However, the plans have been dropped because the costs were too high. The scheme had become a 'fairy tale fantasy' according to the Council's own cabinet member for regeneration. Now, instead the Elephant & Castle shopping centre/UAL development will provide just 35 solar panels representing a measly 1% renewable energy. This falls well short, not just of the Council's zero carbon policy for the Elephant & Castle but also its borough-wide policy requiring a minimum 20% renewable energy for all new major schemes.
