News archive for June, 2026
The Challenges of Retrofitting Cooling to Homes
Posted on June 1st 2026
Recent media reports have highlighted how residents are required to use mechanical cooling to be comfortable. To date, most are achieving this with portable, heavy and noisy AC units ducted through windows. Overheating mitigation for new homes must, and should, maximise passive measures. This leaves two further questions: Whether occupants can reasonably enjoy their homes without mechanical cooling? What should …
How Embodied Carbon Assessments, CPR and CBAM Will Work Together
Posted on June 1st 2026
The proposals within Construction Products Reform (CPR) and UK Carbon Borders Adjustment Mechanism (CBAM) are likely to bring embodied carbon and commercial assessments closer together. From 01/2027 UK CBAM will extend climate levies on the imported materials, such as cement, steel and aluminium, which are already levied against domestically through UK ETS (emission trading scheme). Understanding the embodied carbon content …
Achieving 2050 Heat Network Target Remains Unlikely, Despite Policy Changes
Posted on June 1st 2026
The UK sector is in need of capital support to achieve the 20% of heat demand from networks target. This is starting to be supported for new projects with the function of the recently launched National Wealth Fund, and continuation of existing grant funding schemes, such as the GHNF and HNES. When considered in tandem with other changes, such as …
EAHP Design
Posted on June 1st 2026
The performance of Exhaust Air Heat Pumps (EAHPs) is highly sensitive to system design. Two factors are critical. First, ductwork strategy. EAHPs depend on efficient air movement; long or complex duct runs increase static pressure, drive higher fan energy and reduce airflow which directly undermines cooling performance. Second, unit positioning. Locating EAHPs close to the façade enables short, direct duct …