News
Computational Fluid Dynamic Analysis Helps Improve Indoor Air Quality
Posted on September 29th 2022
Computational fluid dynamics (CFD) analysis can diagnose risks of inadequate air distribution which can impacts both occupants and the building. Poor indoor air quality increases the risks of spreading illnesses between occupants (WHO), leads to uncomfortable occupants and reductions in productivity. Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) analysis is a powerful tool to be used when developing the ventilation strategy. It can …
How Circular Economy Principles Can Impact Carbon and Value
Posted on September 29th 2022
With the help of our technical input, the UK Green Building Council has recently launched a report that focuses on how circularity can support reductions in whole life carbon. We were a key contributor to the report, specifically focusing on maximising reuse to reduce upfront carbon emissions. The aim of the report was to increase understanding on how circularity can …
Heat Network Strategies for West London Electricity Shortages
Posted on September 29th 2022
West London Boroughs are currently experiencing significant electrical capacity constraints, with large areas, particularly in Ealing and Hounslow, at 100% capacity (Greater London Authority). This comes at a time when heating strategies are increasingly electrified with heat pumps, thus exacerbating the issue and increasing the electrical requirements of each site. Experience to date indicates that planning authorities are not pulling …
Future Homes and Buildings Standard: Clarity for Existing Heat Networks
Posted on September 29th 2022
Existing heat networks will not have to be fully decarbonised in order to provide Future Homes and Buildings Standards compliant heat supplies in 2025. The government have issued a clear statement of intent outlining how new buildings subject to challenging CO2 targets under future building regulations will be able to connect to existing heat networks without requiring the removal and …
GLA requirements for commercial buildings means planning for new technology and optimised services
Posted on July 29th 2022
Meeting the GLA’s Part L 21, energy efficiency requirement is especially tough for offices and retail units. The required changes will impact architecture and how they are serviced. Developments with high hot water uses, such as leisure facilities or care homes, will have to further consider new technologies to reduce energy used for hot water generation. Our early assessment has …
New buildings measure up in CCC’s Progress Report
Posted on July 29th 2022
A recent publication by the Climate Change Committee (CCC) states UK has “solid Net Zero strategy in place” but risks missing the aim of net zero in practice. The report notes that the building sector needs to increase the uptake of low carbon heating technologies and ensure reductions in energy demands. These are elements that have been considered for new …
Heatwaves: Designing for a Changing Climate
Posted on July 29th 2022
New apartments need to be better designed for our changing climate. Designers should look to our nearest southerly European neighbours for architectural inspiration to not only keep heat in during winter but also keep heat out during summer. Our fascination in the UK with entire glazed facades and full height windows in apartments is an interesting one. Glass may provide …
Heat Pump refrigerants: CO2 vs Hydrocarbon – which to use when?
Posted on July 29th 2022
There are several manufacturers of both low and high temperature heat pumps, and their choice of refrigerant impacts performance. Refrigerants are the lifeblood of heat pumps and is also the medium through which heat is transferred. Hydrocarbon and CO2 refrigerant heat pumps offer some benefits in comparison to alternatives such as Hydrofluorocarbons (HFC) and other compounds. The former are non-toxic, …
UK Wide Mandate for Heat Networks Arriving Shortly?
Posted on June 30th 2022
The Government has responded to the heat network zoning consultation and confirmed it will push for a UK wide requirement for heat network connections. The consultation highlights that a methodology will be developed to identify heat network zones across the UK. Zoning is expected to help expand the heat network sector by encouraging continuing investment, and forms part of the …
Part O: Are you Prepared?
Posted on June 29th 2022
Building Regulations Part O, for Overheating, applies to all residential buildings and came into effect in England on 15th June 2022. Its reach is extensive covering dwellings, care homes, student accommodation and halls of residence, boarding schools and residential colleges. Part O’s stated aim is to protect the health and welfare of occupants by reducing the occurrence of high indoor …