Existing Heat Networks and the Importance of the Part L Notional Building
Posted on August 1st 2023
Buildings connecting to existing heat networks can now choose how they are assessed in Part L 2021. The approved software change means that decarbonised networks are now assessed fairly. Developers may therefore wish to ask their energy consultants if this impacts their schemes and if there are any planning implications. Under the previous method, buildings connecting to existing networks were …
How to Best Use Readily Available Psi-Value Details
Posted on August 1st 2023
Part L 2021 allows the use of open thermal bridging (psi value) detail databases, resulting in effective cost savings. However, developers should use them diligently to avoid the risk of non-compliance. The following items can be easily checked to ensure appropriate use and quality of the psi-values: Values should be calculated following the requirements of BRE BR497 (the standard used …
Corridor SBEMs under Part L 2021
Posted on August 1st 2023
SBEM Part L compliance for communal corridors is no longer an easy win. Under Part L 2013 it has generally been possible to heat corridors with electric panel heaters and easily comply with regulations. In the process this has made the residential SAP energy efficiency specification more relaxed than where corridors are assumed as unheated. Part L 2021 tightens the …
How to Mitigate Overheating on Noisy Sites
Posted on June 30th 2023
We have reviewed 3 mitigation measures to help developments in noisy locations comply with Part O 2021. Developments in noisy locations are now required to check overheating with windows closed at night. This is the most useful time to purge heat as it’s cooler. Many of our schemes are looking into new technologies such as ‘air tempering’ or ‘peak lopping’ …
DESNZ Extends Heat Network Capital Grants
Posted on June 29th 2023
The Department for Energy Security and Net Zero (DESNZ) have announced additional capital funding is to be allocated to the Green Heat Network Fund (GHNF), and extension of the scheme to 2028. The fund was set up in 2022 to support the development of new and existing low and zero-carbon heat networks. It has proved very popular, with the number …
Heat Pump Design Considerations
Posted on June 29th 2023
When designing individual air-source heat pump (ASHP) systems to maximise system efficiency and reliability, the following factors should be considered. External temperature: Unlike gas boilers, the heat output of ASHPs reduces as external temperatures decline. The standard external design temperature in London is -3oC. Mitigation this risk would require designing to a lower temperature (e.g, -7 °C). Designers should however …
Project Success for Brunswick Hill
Posted on May 31st 2023
Hodkinsons were appointed to undertake a BREEAM Assessment for the recent refurbishment of an Edwardian villa building into 9 apartments. Brunswick Hill House is a bespoke development located in central Reading. We worked with EB Solutions to create a ‘Very Good’ rated BREEAM strategy that promoted a low cost and sustainable refurbishment. The apartments all performed well in terms of …
3D Psi values Mandated by BR497 for High-rise Construction
Posted on May 31st 2023
3D psi value modelling must be used for compliant thermal assessment of junctions in reinforced concrete (RC) / steel frame system (SFS) construction. Part L 2021’s stricter fabric and energy targets alongside photographic evidence has placed even greater emphasis on the accuracy of psi values and thermal bridging calculations. BR497, Conventions for calculating linear thermal transmittance and temperature factors, is …
Part O Approach Approved by Building Control
Posted on May 31st 2023
Developers have recently been contending with ambiguous wording in Building Regulations Part O to find compliant overheating mitigation strategies. Hodkinson Consultancy now have set a precedent in achieving Building Control sign-off across multiple projects. Developing a Part O compliant strategy involves selecting sample units for modelling and agreeing acceptable security measures for easily accessible units. Ways in which we have …
Prepare for Increased Carbon Offset Payments
Posted on April 28th 2023
The GLA’s carbon offset price of £95/tonne of carbon dioxide for regulated emissions now looks low, with other local authorities charging almost ten times more. Development costs for a typical 2-bed flat increase by as much as £9,000 when prices already adopted by other local authorities are applied in place of the GLA’s price. Although we understand that the GLA …