If you are thinking about classy wallpaper installation in London, you may have your eye on the latest trends in stylish, top-of-the-range design. But could you soon be looking at eco-friendly options too?

When it comes to finding greener ways to heat homes, much is spoken and written about renewable energy, not using fossil fuels in heating and insulation. Wallpaper is not so likely to be mentioned - until now.

The North Wales Pioneer has reported on the innovative installation of infrared wallpaper in 31 homes in Conwy by the ClwydAlyn housing association, with the wall coverings being connected to green electricity and radiating heat more efficiently than normal methods like fires or radiators.

Combining this with other methods of increased energy efficiency, the aim is to make the homes much less costly - and much more eco-friendly - to heat before autumn and winter arrive.

Head of technical, innovation and climate at ClwydAlyn Tom Boome said: “This exciting scheme will help 31 households to benefit from warmer homes while saving a significant amount on their annual energy bill.”

He added: “We hope that this scheme will serve as a pioneering example of what is possible, benefiting people across the country in the future.”

The latter comment may be particularly pertinent. While householders seeking top-of-the-range wallpaper and other décor elements might not find themselves struggling to pay the bills like housing association residents, the desire to be greener in home energy use is something everyone can be concerned by and want to achieve.

A feature on the technology by the BBC earlier this year explained that the technology uses graphene strips to turn electricity into infrared heat, similar to that produced by the sun.

The broadcaster said this wallpaper “may not be particularly glamorous or visible”, although it could have significant environmental benefits.

However, that could, of course, change markedly. It may be that before long the most elegant and stylish of upmarket wallpaper could have this element built into it, ensuring an opulent design does not actually cost the earth.