EIBI September 2021

SEPTEMBER 2021

PROMOTING ENERGY EFFICIENCY

www.eibi.co.uk

In this issue Heating Technology Smart Buildings Humidification CPD Module: Underfloor Heating

The art of humidity Preserving our works of art

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From dumb to smart Time to upgrade our buildings

Transition to net zero Taking the first steps

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SEPTEMBER 2021

PROMOTING ENERGY EFFICIENCY

www.eibi.co.uk

In this issue

Contents

www.eibi.co.uk

Heating Technology Smart Buildings Humidification CPD Module: Underfloor Heating

The art of humidity Preserving our works of art

From dumb to smart Time to upgrade our buildings

Transition to net zero Taking the first steps

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SEPTEMBER 2021

25

18

FEATURES

The digital sector has to move to combat the technological challenges of the 21st century. Ian Terblanche examines how the Internet of Things can contribute (30)

12 Heating Technology

Reducing the energy use of its housing stock is a challenge for any local authority. Mark Wilkins examines how local authorities should make long-term plans for carbon reduction

It is not only simple to adopt today’s technology but it is economically very attractive to do so, as Oliver Iltisberger explains (32)

Oversizing of domestic hot water supply is a common occurrence, says Bill Sinclair. It leads to higher capital costs, more complex system builds, longer installs, and higher fuel bills (14)

The Smart Buildings Show returns for its largest event to-date, as the free-to-attend conference and exhibition takes place at London’s ExCel, on 6-7th October 2021 (34)

Paul Hamblyn explains why large organisations shouldn’t wait for a “silver bullet” solution before decarbonising their heat – and outlines the transitional technology that will get you on the road to net zero (16)

37 Humidification Technology

A new heat interface unit; replacement boilers at hospital; and a luxury hotel benefits from four floor-standing boilers (18) Baxi Heating demonstrates its first 100 per cent hydrogen boiler while a new unit boosts the heat output of heat pumps (20)

29

Smart Buildings Luis D’Acosta takes a look at how currently available technology is turning dumb buildings smart and reaping the rewards of lower energy consumption

Dave Marshall-George explains how to use adiabatic humidifiers for evaporative cooling in AHUs. An effective strategy can make big reductions in energy consumption

Many exhibits in museums and galleries are vulnerable to damage from environmental factors such as humidity. John Barker explains how they can be overcome (38) Humideco worked with the National Museum of Wales to replace their original electric steam humidifiers throughout the museum (40) Munters says it has upgraded its DSS dehumidification system with several performance upgrades (41)

REGULARS 06 News Update

26 New Products

Big four boiler companies agree hydrogen price promise while the EC publishes a package of new energy efficiency policies

ning

Hitachi launches into the UK a four-way cassette unit design panel while LG Electronics makes available a virtual online showroom

10 The Warren Report

42 Talking Heads

The EU’s Fit for 55 programme will challenge politicians to ensure that large sections of the European population are not disadvantaged. The UK must follow their lead

21 The Fundamental Series: CPD Learning

Underfloor heating is fast becoming an established space hating technology.

Paul Bennett examines how it can be best employed

Steve Cooper has been at the heart of a sustainability drive since 2013. As he tells EiBI it is evolving and developing as global demands change

25 Products in Action Radiators enhance Scottish college heating system while a grower of garden bedding plants installs a ground-source heat pump

Follow us, ‘like us’ or visit us online to keep up to date with all the latest energy news and events www.eibi.co.uk SEPTEMBER 2021 | ENERGY IN BUILDINGS & INDUSTRY | 03

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Editor’s Opinion

Follow us on @ twitter.com/eibi and twitter.com/eibi_magazine

The hydrogen gamble

T

here’s no heavier burden than a

100kWh of renewable energy, 270kWh of heat is

great potential.” That quote from

produced.

the American cartoonist Charles M Schulz has been used recently to

describe the future of the hydrogen economy.

The government has recently published its strategy that has received a cautious welcome from most energy bodies. Government analysis

Blue hydrogen — produced via methane with carbon capture and storage (CCS) — would be slightly more energy efficient than green, resulting in 58 per cent of the energy in natural gas being used for heating.

So, yes, the potential for hitting that 30 per cent

suggests that 20 per cent to 35 per cent of the UK’s

energy target by mid century is there but the cost

energy consumption could be hydrogen-based by

of hitting it is unknown and perhaps not feasible.

the middle of the century. The hydrogen policy is

The UK’s big four boiler manufacturers, Baxi,

designed to replicate the UK’s “previous success”

Vaillant, Worcester Bosch and Ideal have signed a

with offshore wind by coupling early government

commitment brokered by the Energy and Utilities

action with private sector backing.

Alliance (see page 7) that pledges that installing

Westminster has also launched a public

a new hydrogen-ready gas boiler will cost no

consultation on a preferred hydrogen business

more than the gas condensing boilers these could

model, influenced by the existing Contract

replace. Research by the EUA had found that most

for Difference (CfD) scheme. It would aim to

of the public are entirely unwilling to pay more

“overcome the cost gap” between low carbon

than the standard price of a new boiler for any new

hydrogen and fossil fuels, helping the price of the

green alternatives. The boiler manufacturers are

former to fall quickly.

investing a lot in the potential of this new market.

A recent study points out that green hydrogen

However, so much depends on the development of

for heating has an energy efficiency of 46 per cent

technologies to produce affordable hydrogen. And

— in other words, for every 100kWh of renewable

as the price of renewable electricity falls, could it

energy used to produce green H2, only 46kWh of

be that that potential is never realised?

buildings heat is produced, due to energy losses in the production, storage and transportation of the gas. By contrast, heat pumps produce an energy

MANAGING EDITOR

efficiency of 270 per cent, meaning that for every

Mark Thrower

www.eibi.co.uk

The EiBI Team Editorial Managing Editor Mark Thrower tel: 01483 452854 Email: editor@eibi.co.uk Address: P. O. Box 825, Guildford GU4 8WQ

Advertising Sales Managers Chris Evans tel: 01889 577222 fax: 01889 579177 Email: chris@eibi.co.uk Address: 16-18 Hawkesyard Hall, Armitage Park, Rugeley, Staffordshire WS15 1PU Russ Jackson tel: 01704 501090 fax: 01704 531090 Email: russ@eibi.co.uk Address: Argyle Business Centre, 8 Leicester Street, Southport, Lancashire PR9 0EZ Nathan Wood tel 01525 716 143 fax 01525 715 316 Email nathan@eibi.co.uk Address: 1b, Station Square Flitwick, Bedfordshire MK45 1DP

Classified sales Sharon Nutter Tel: 01889 577222 Email: classified@eibi.co.uk

Circulation Sue Bethell Tel: 01889 577222 Email: circulation@eibi.co.uk

Administration/ production Fran Critchlow Tel: 01889 577222 Email: info@eibi.co.uk

THIS MONTH’S COVER STORY Hitachi has launched into the UK the Silent Iconic, a four-way cassette unit design panel.

The unit has already picked up three international product design awards – the iF Design Award 2020 in the Product category, the Good Design Award 2020 and the Red Dot Best of the Best Product Design 2021.

Maintaining the cost-benefit, ease of installation and performance of a cassette, the Silent Iconic design panel delivers a stylish yet unobtrusive design.

The four louvres are black to reduce the visual impact and the central inlet is louvred to blend with architectural ceiling styles.

See page 26 for more details Cover photo courtesy of Hitachi

Publishing Directors Chris Evans Russ Jackson Magazine Designer Tim Plummer For overseas readers or UK readers not qualifying for a free copy, annual subscription rates are £85 UK; £105 Europe airmail; £120 RoW. Single copies £10 each.

Published by: Pinede Publishing Ltd 16-18 Hawkesyard Hall, Armitage Park, Nr. Rugeley, Staffordshire WS15 1PU ISSN 0969 885X This issue includes photographs provided and paid for by suppliers

Printed by Precision Colour Printing Origination by Design and Media Solutions ABC Audited Circulation Jan-Dec 2020 11,721

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News Update

For all the latest news stories visit www.eibi.co.uk

California agrees standards for greater use of electric heating

California energy regulators have approved energy efficiency standards aimed at vastly expanding the use of electric appliances for space and water heating in new homes and businesses, in a shift away from using fossil fuels to heat and cool buildings.

The California Energy Commission said the revised building regulations would support the state’s efforts to combat global warming by slashing greenhouse gases over the next 30 years equivalent to taking nearly 2.2m cars off the road for a year. California has long been acknowledged as one of the main trailblazers worldwide for setting energy saving standards. Latterly, it has been at the forefront of efforts to address the impact of natural gas on climate change.

In the last two years, more than over 25 California cities have introduced measures to reduce the use of natural gas in buildings.

But, unlike proposals due in England, the state’s update will not impose an all-out ban on natural gas even for new construction.

However, it includes a requirement to install solar and energy storage systems in most new commercial buildings, demands that singlefamily homes be built “electric ready” to support electric vehicles and appliances and strengthens ventilation standards to improve indoor air quality.

Homes and businesses in California, which updates its building regulations every three years, account for a quarter of the state’s greenhouse gas emissions.

The new code will take effect in January 2023.

Heat pumps, an alternative to gas-fuelled water and space heating, are currently used in less than 6 per cent of new home construction in California. The new building code will establish heat pumps as the baseline technology when builders are designing homes to meet state efficiency standards. Significantly, homes may still be built with gas heating systems, but builders in those cases will have to find extra efficiency gains in other parts of the building such as windows or walls.

PACKAGE OF ENERGY EFFICIENCY POLICIES

EU aiming for 9% energy use cut by 2030 The European Commission has published a new package of energy efficiency policies with a goal for EU countries to collectively cut energy consumption by 9 per cent by 2030, compared with their projected energy use by that date under current plans.

To hit that goal, countries will be required to put in place measures to cut their final energy consumption by 1.5 per cent each year from 2024 to 2030, nearly doubling an existing requirement of 0.8 per cent.

Europe renovates just 1 per cent of buildings to save energy each year.

Brussels hopes countries will use the EU’s €800bn COVID-19 economic recovery fund to launch a wave of green renovations, boosting construction sector jobs. The Commission also proposes that each of the 27 countries will renovate 3 per cent of all buildings owned or occupied by public bodies each year to transform them into “nearly zero-energy buildings.”

Currently, countries are required to renovate 3 per cent of central government buildings to weaker standards. But central government buildings make up less than 1 per cent of the roughly 260m buildings in the EU, while public buildings make up roughly 10 per cent.

Existing legislation will be upgraded, beginning with the Energy Efficiency Directive. Other directives set to be

revisited include the Eco Design and the Energy Performance of Buildings directives.

The Commission argues that all revenues from carbon permit auctions under the EU’s Emissions Trading System and national CO2 auctions will have to be channelled to green investments, including investments in energy efficiency measures and renewables. These include revenues from proposed new areas of surface transport and of buildings. Efficiency requirements will have to be considered in public tenders, and governments will have to focus on increasing energy savings among vulnerable consumers, helping to alleviate fuel poverty.

The EU only achieved its earlier, more modest 20 per cent reduction by

Welsh government commits to £250m for new low-carbon homes The Welsh Government has doubled its spending on social housing for rent, committing an initial £250m in 2021/22 for 20,000 new low carbon homes.

The plans will seek to address

a rising demand for housing and the climate crisis, providing “good quality and affordable green homes” to those who need them.

All homes will be built to new quality and environmental standards with

2020 energy efficiency target, due to “exceptional circumstances,” a clear reference to the economic impact of the pandemic. Current national climate and energy plans for 2030 are considered far too weak -- providing a maximum 29.4 per cent reduction in energy consumption across the continent, well below the existing EU objective for 32.5 per cent efficiency.

All of these initiatives are incorporated within the EC’s “Fit for 55” programme. This is designed to deliver a 55 per cent reduction in greenhouse gas emissions across the EU27 between 1990 and 2030. Firm details of the precise programme must be negotiated with EU countries and the European Parliament, a process that can take roughly two years.

the aim for some of the stock to go beyond net zero and produce more energy than they use.

Visiting one of Wales’ first “positive energy” social housing schemes, the Minister for Climate Change who is responsible for housing, Julie James, said Wales & West Housing’s Rhiw Cefn Gwlad scheme in Bridgend was “an exemplar” for developers, housing associations and councils to follow.

The 14-home development has made use of the latest technical innovations in renewable energy, from exhaust air heat pumps integrated with mechanical ventilation, to large solar photovoltaic roof systems coupled with a Tesla battery system.

The residents who took possession in January this year, received their first negative energy bill in March, meaning the excess energy their homes have generated has already been pumped back into the national grid.

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News Update

For all the latest news stories visit www.eibi.co.uk

NO PRICE PREMIUM FOR HYDROGEN-READY BOILERS

In Brief

Boiler companies agree price promise The big four boiler firms have joined forces to vow a new price promise, meaning consumers will save a total of £2.3bn if they upgrade to an ecofriendly hydrogen model in future. The commitment is that installing a new hydrogen-ready gas boiler will cost no more than the gas condensing boilers these could replace. Around 1.8m gas condensing boilers are installed in British buildings each year.

New gas condensing boilers are set to be phased out ahead of the 2050 net zero target, probably by 2035. The new hydrogen boilers from Worcester Bosch, Vaillant, Baxi and Ideal will save thousands of tonnes of emissions being pumped out from gas which is used now.

However, the concern has long been that replacements would cost thousands of pounds more. Currently, gas condensing boilers are being installed at around one-quarter of the price levied. Experts previously estimated they would be at least £100 more.

Mike Foster, chief executive of the boiler industry’s trade association, the Energy and Utilities Alliance (EUA)

“Ministers now seem prepared to sign off moves to guarantee energy firms a minimum price for hydrogen through the contracts for difference mechanism” who brokered the deal, says the pricepromise is a major boost to consumers and the fight against climate change.

Foster, a former Labour government international development minister

said: “Consumers want to do their bit to reduce the impact of their homes and help deliver a greener future but are seriously concerned about the cost.

If the Government commits to its own rumoured legislation, this could mean that low-carbon homes could be a reality for everyone in the UK without homeowners facing gargantuan price tags.”

His association’s research had found that most of the public are entirely unwilling to pay more than the standard price of a new boiler for any new green alternatives.

Ministers now seem prepared to sign off moves to guarantee energy firms a minimum price for hydrogen, through subsidies created via changes to the “contracts for difference” mechanism, which helped expand penetration of renewable generation into the electricity market. Overall demand for electricity in Britain has fallen heavily over the past fifteen years and is now 30 per cent lower than Government forecasts has assumed it would be. But the National Grid is anticipating that it may recover much of its original size over the next 15 years.

Campaign launches to champion women in energy efficiency

A new campaign championing women in energy efficiency is highlighting the expertise and insight they bring and encouraging more to join the industry.

The initiative, from Elmhurst Energy, celebrates and raises the profile of women working in different roles in what is traditionally a male-dominated sector, and seeks to give them a greater voice, increased visibility and more networking opportunities.

Elmhurst’s business development manager, Fiona Wilson (pictured), who is leading the campaign, said: “We know from our survey that a lot of our female members didn’t start out in the energy efficiency sector, but now have thriving careers and businesses.

They have told us they like the flexibility and variety of the work, but it also offers security as there’s a lot of business available.”

As part of the campaign, Elmhurst surveyed its female members and discovered a number of trends – including experiences of being the only woman on a training course. To help address this the company is creating a Women’s Forum, which will run twice a year, and has set up the industry’s first Women in Energy

Efficiency Facebook group.

Around one in eight Elmhurst members are women, so the company is also aiming to raise the profile of energy efficiency as a viable career path, with member case studies demonstrating the traditional and more unusual routes some have taken to get into their current jobs.

“We also know they find being a woman in energy assessment is an advantage in a lot of ways,” added Wilson. “For instance, some find

that older or lone female residents seek them out, as they feel more comfortable having a woman inspect their home.

“Energy efficiency is a fascinating, important and rewarding sector to be part of, and we hope that by launching this campaign and providing new platforms for networking and discussion, we can encourage many more women to join us, whether they’re at the start of their careers or looking for a change.”

Welsh council invests in efficiency upgrades

Torfaen County Borough Council is on track to save millions of pounds and significantly reduce its carbon footprint and impact on climate change after investing in over 45 energy efficiency upgrades across the borough.

Torfaen council has implemented a range of decarbonisation and sustainability projects over the last five years aimed at cutting its energy consumption including street lighting upgrades, LED lighting overhauls and the installation of numerous Building Energy Management Systems (BMS) in public sector buildings.

Worth over £1.9m, the projects, which were funded with the help of interest-free funding administered

by Salix Finance in partnership with the Welsh Government, are set to save Torfaen Council over £302,000 annually.

Speakers announced for industry debates

The Rumford Club has announced a strong line up of speakers for its autumn and winter dinners.

The club was founded to encourage debate and discussion around technical issues such as air movement in buildings. The topics for discussion have expanded but the remit is still to host regular dinner meetings with keynote speakers discoursing on particular topics around the industry.

The speakers are: • 14th October 2021: Chris Marsland, Eurosite Power Ltd; • 17th November 2021: Ian Pillay, Development Director, Clean Power Hydrogen Group Limited (CPH2); • 2nd December 2021: Isobel Sheldon, Chief Strategy Officer, BritishVolt; • 20th January 2022: Simon Wyatt, Partner, Sustainability Cundall; • 23rd February 2022: Ruth Carter, CEO CIBSE; and • 17th March 2022: Sharon Duffy, Head of Engineering Delivery Optimisation, Transport for London (TfL), If you are interested in becoming a member and attending any of the dinners, you can apply through their website; www.therumfordclub.co.uk.

Membership starts at £30 per annum with subsequent costs for each dinner of £65 (with alcohol) and £55 (without alcohol).

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News Update

For all the latest news stories visit www.eibi.co.uk

One in ten firms measure carbon footprint Research by the British Chambers of Commerce has found that only one in ten businesses, of more than 1,000 surveyed in the UK, are measuring their carbon footprint.

This falls to 9 per cent for small businesses, and 5 per cent for microbusinesses, with fewer than 10 employees. By contrast 26 per cent of larger firms, with more than 50 employees, are measuring their footprint.

The research also showed only one in seven (13 per cent) have set targets to reduce their emissions – down from one in five (21 per cent) when firms were surveyed before the pandemic in February 2020.

In addition, almost two thirds (64 per cent) of businesses surveyed say they don’t see net zero targets as a high priority in the wake of the pandemic, although half (49 per cent) admit their customers are worried about the environment.

The findings also show that one in five businesses (22 per cent) don’t fully understand the term ‘net zero,’ and almost a third have yet to seek advice or information to help them develop a net zero roadmap or improve their environmental sustainability.

With the impacts of the pandemic and other priorities weighing heavily on small and medium sized businesses, the research found that smaller firms were far more likely to be behind on climate action. When it came to setting carbon reduction targets, 27 per cent of larger firms have done so, compared to just 9 per cent of microbusinesses.

MAJORITY OF LONDON OFFICES IN D TO G CATEGORIES

Many London offices could be unusable as they struggle to hit EPC rating Analysis from professional services and investment management organisation, Colliers, shows that only approximately 20 per cent of central London offices can be classed as A and B on the EPC rating scale, with the majority (57 per cent) falling into the D to G categories.

It also found that 10 per cent of London’s office stock may become unusable in 2023 due to low EPC rating.

Tom Wildash, co-head of the West End Leasing team at Colliers, said: “London’s landlords are going to have to take a long hard look at their stock and need to take action now to bring their space up to a higher standard.

“One benefit of the pandemic is that it has brought the environmental and wellness credentials of offices to the fore among investors, owners and occupiers alike. It is imperative that those owners of offices with low EPC ratings spend the next 18 months on comprehensive refurbishment plans to avoid being left behind and unable to attract new tenants. With a lack of new build stock in the pipeline and a growing level of demand for best in class space, the refurbishment of London’s offices could do a lot to ease this supply/demand equation.”

Guy Grantham, London Research director at Colliers, added: “There is evidence of appetite for refurbished space which is encouraging for landlords and developers looking

to upgrade existing stock. There is also a mismatch between supply and demand as when looking at the overall delivery of development space by square footage in 2018-2020, refurbished schemes only accounted for 23 per cent of the market.

“Hopefully this number will increase as the EPC deadline looms.

There is also plenty to be said for far better green credentials of refurbished space as opposed to demolition and complete rebuild from the ground up, the recycling of existing stock offers stronger green credentials in the short to medium term than potentially newly built BREEAM Outstanding projects.”

industry-wide target to bring about a 50 per cent absolute reduction of GHG emissions associated with food and drink by 2030, replacing far weaker

plans to cut emissions per capita by 20 per cent by 2025.

WRAP said the previous 20 per cent per capita target on emissions was “no longer seen as an ambitious vision”. It added: “Having a medium-term target that extends further to 2030, with milestone targets in interim years, will help to ensure the industry is on a trajectory to achieve longer-term net zero commitments.”

In recent months industry bodies, including the Food and Drink Federation, have announced plans to target net zero emissions by 2040. WRAP said the new target would work alongside such agreements to spearhead industry action – despite admitting far more needed to be done by companies to ramp up reporting and transparency on emissions.

Food companies agree new climate change targets Food and drink companies have agreed to new targets to tackle greenhouse gas emissions and food waste, after conceding a previous flagship commitment was not ambitious enough.

After months of talks with food and drink companies and trade bodies, WRAP, a charity working with governments, businesses and citizens around the globe to create a world in which resources are used sustainably, announced it was side-lining its Courtauld 2025 Commitment, launched in 2015, with a new set of promises backed by dozens of the UK’s biggest food retailers and suppliers to

take “bolder” action to prevent an environmental disaster from climate change.

Its most striking move is a new

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THE WARREN REPORT

Andrew Warren is chairman of the British Energy Efficiency Federation

The conundrum facing European policy makers The EU’s Fit for 55 programme will challenge politicians to ensure that large sections of the European population are not disadvantaged by regulations to cut greenhouse gas emissions. The UK must follow their lead

T

his autumn the UK government is finally due to publish in detail precisely what steps will be taken during this decade to realise its testing net zero climate change ambitions.

There has been much speculation as to what it may contain. So, it is instructive to cast eyes over the Channel, to observe how our former partners in the European Union are handling matters.

Just before the summer break, the European Commission issued its own “Fit for 55” programme. This is a mega-package of a dozen regulatory instruments aimed at cutting EU greenhouse gas emissions by 55 per cent between 1990 and 2030, a key step toward the long-term goal of becoming climate neutral by mid-century. Making it happen will impact the personal choices and bank accounts of Europeans of every class.

The EC is demanding changes to everything from the cars people drive, to how they heat their homes, whether they can take a cheap flight on holiday, and even if their current jobs will exist in the new, clean and green economy.

Brussels is well aware that if it gets the balance wrong, the result could be a continent-wide political backlash.

“Any fundamental transition like this will get us a massive lot of pushback,” warns the EC vice-president in charge, Dutchman Frans Timmermans. “Very simply, the European Green Deal has got to be seen as just, or there is just not going to be a European Green Deal.”

Corinne Le Quéré, chair of France’s High Council on Climate, believes there is “absolutely” a chance these policies

will spark rebellious public responses. The Yellow Jackets movement’s explosive reaction to a 2018 fuel tax hike in France is now political folklore in Brussels.

Germany’s September federal elections are another early test of the political cost of shifting climate change-mitigating measures into national law. In particular, because the leader of the Greens, Annalena Baerbock, is a genuine prospect to win the chancellorship. When the campaign got underway, the Greens were hit by their rivals for their plans to raise fuel taxes and shift traffic from short-haul flights to railways — even though the parties in the governing coalition of Christian Democrats and Social Democrats also support some form of these policies.

Coal miners a shrinking, but powerful lobby Armin Laschet, the conservative Christian Democrats’ candidate for chancellor, is accusing his competitors of “ending the dream of a summer vacation” with their calls for a minimum airline ticket price.

In Warsaw, the EU’s climate policy was already a major political challenge. Poland relies on coal for about 70 per cent of its electricity as well as about 40 per cent of home heating. The government’s energy strategy calls for a very gradual retreat from coal — it is meant to be phased out by 2049, the year before the whole EU is supposed to become climate neutral — but that plan is increasingly at odds with fast-rising ETS permit prices. The country has already scrapped the construction of a big coal-fired power plant, and electric utilities are scrambling for the exits.

Coal miners are a shrinking, but still a politically powerful lobby, and the nationalist ruling party is wary of angering them as talk of an early election increases.

This summer, as Irish politicians were preparing to vote on the country’s landmark Climate Action Bill, designed to implement Europe’s climate goals, Michael Healy-Rae, an independent MP from South Kerry, posted a video on his Facebook page. In the monologue, Healy-Rae attacked the Bill for the burden that he said it would place on peat production, tourism and farming.

In the Dáil, Ireland’s parliament, where the climate bill was overwhelmingly passed, Healy-Rae was a lonely voice. But the video was viewed 392,000 times, 23 times the number of people

‘Brussels is well aware that if it gets the balance wrong, the result could be a continent-wide political backlash'

who voted for Healy-Rae in the 2020 election.

Public anxiety that the price of climate cuts will be unfairly borne by those who can’t afford it gives such groups a platform to broaden their appeal by attacking any policy that can be branded as elitist.

The Commission faces a similar bind.

On the one hand, Timmermans believes “we need everyone to do their part.” But who will be prepared to pay the political cost of carrying that message to the holidaymakers, drivers and households of Europe?

Tensions were already clear at the European Heads of Government Council in May when the leaders of Slovenia, Latvia, Poland and Luxembourg declared their opposition to the Commission’s plan to extend the EU:ETS to transport and buildings, on the basis that would unfairly hit their poorest citizens.

“The redistribution of these funds will be critical,” said Le Quéré, especially because the instruments are being imposed from Brussels.

A Commission spokesperson reckons “Fit for 55” weaves “anti-regressive” elements through the entire package.

That includes expanding existing funds to help poorer countries. Home insulation schemes are also viewed as a measure that can ease fuel poverty. But when it comes to ensuring the costs of the policies don’t fall too hard on those who can least afford it, the European executive has “very limited” powers, the official said. That means Brussels carries much of the political risk, while national governments can choose whether and how to soften the blow.

In a last-minute attempt to wrest some control back from member countries, the package deliberately includes a new “social fund,” which would use revenue generated by the extension of emissions trading to road transport and buildings to compensate people who need to drive to work or better insulate their homes.

The Commission text confirms it will be available in all EU countries, not just the poorer ones that normally benefit from the EU’s redistributive funds.

To meet its climate goals, the UK will need just as radical and just as inclusive policies as the EU. And every bit as great a determination to implement them. 

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Heating Technology

Mark Wilkins is technology and training director at Vaillant

The long and winding road Reducing the energy use of its housing stock is a challenge for any local authority. Mark Wilkins examines how local authorities should make long-term plans for carbon reduction

L

ocal authorities have a key role to play in helping to reach the Government’s net zero target by 20501.

Many combined authorities have ambitious climate targets with earlier delivery dates; with lowering the carbon footprint of their housing stock forming one of the key pillars in meeting carbon reduction goals.

However, co-ordinating improvement programmes over the long term can be a challenge. This is especially the case when projects are managed separately and at different times due to the way funding becomes available. For example, support for new boilers may be the focus of funding one year, cavity wall insulation the next, followed by solar PV panels sometime later, in turn affecting the specification of heating provision to ensure it remains viable for future changes further down the line. That’s why it is vital that a clear map of measures to reduce the carbon emissions from a housing portfolio includes imminent and upcoming projects as part of asset management plans to ensure targets are not missed.

Minimise heat loss The Clean Growth Strategy set a target to upgrade as many houses to EPC B and C by 2035 “where practical, cost-effective and affordable”, and for all fuel poor households and as many rented homes as possible, to reach this standard by 2030. Minimising heat loss by improving the building fabric is the first step towards meeting this target and can be achieved via upgrades to building fabric such as windows, insulation, and doors.

Once the heat loss has been reduced, attention can then be turned to making further carbon savings by installing a low-carbon heating system.

While there are many possible routes to decarbonisation, there is no ‘silver bullet’ solution. Hydrogen is being considered as one of the possible technologies. Vaillant is supporting multiple projects

it can run at its most effective. So, if these are installed not long after a new kitchen or bathroom has been fitted, some of the previous work may have to be taken out or redone to retrofit new, larger-sized radiators or underfloor heating.

Therefore, considering any future fabric upgrades before deciding to carry out refurbishments can ensure a simpler transition to low-carbon heating when the time comes.

Not every housing provider has a retrofit coordinator who is fully trained and qualified in the implementation of PAS 2035 standards, and able to contribute to a wider asset management strategy.

Heating product manufacturers have recognised this issue and have established end-to-end support to help housing providers make that transition to low-carbon heating systems.

Heat pumps can provide a cost-effective solution to decarbonise homes

across the UK and Europe that are exploring how to make this vision a reality, such as HyDeploy at Keele University, using a blend of up to 20 per cent hydrogen with natural gas as a greener alternative. Work is also being carried out by Vaillant Group regarding the viability of using up to 100 per cent hydrogen, and several other trials are being run to further test the viability of using hydrogenonly boilers on a larger scale.

However, the use of hydrogen in heating is still very much in trial phases and we await clarity of when and where it will be available across the country. The expectation being that it won’t be until mid-2030s.

So, while hydrogen is on the agenda, there is still a long way to go until it can be used on a mass scale, either as a gas blend or as 100 per cent hydrogen.

Heat pump technology, on the other hand, is available now. It has zero-emissions at point of use and meets both heating and hot water requirements, and the electricity used to power the units is increasingly being produced via renewable and low-carbon means.

Once energy demand in the home is reduced through good insulation, heat pumps can provide a low

‘The route to carbon savings will need to be considered on a property-by property basis’

carbon and cost-effective solution to decarbonise housing stocks.

The type of low-carbon heating system eventually chosen may have an impact on any long-term asset management programme, keeping an eye on the future heating needs of a property and what is required to achieve it, could help minimise unnecessary costs. For example, if heat pump technology is the preferred route to decarbonise a building’s heat source, new pipework or larger heat emitters may be needed to ensure

Whole-house approach Taking the whole-house approach, Vaillant supported the Welsh School of Architecture on an innovative pilot project, upgrading the building fabric of four councilowned semi-detached bungalows alongside installing heat pumps.

Designed to be self-sufficient for their energy needs, they were able to export surplus power back to the grid during the spring and summer months.

For public housing to make a significant dent in a local authority’s carbon reduction efforts, it requires a clear, long-term plan. By managing the decarbonisation of heating used in housing as part of a long-term asset management programme, carbon savings can be made across the buildings portfolio’s lifetime.

The route to achieving this, whether that’s via heat pumps, hydrogen, or a hybrid system, will need to be considered on a property-byproperty basis as there is no one technology that will suit every home.  1) https://assets.publishing.service.gov. uk/government/uploads/system/uploads/ attachment_data/file/936567/10_ POINT_PLAN_BOOKLET.pdf

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Heating Technology

Bill Sinclair is technical director at Adveco

When sizing does matter Oversizing of domestic hot water supply is a common occurrence, says Bill Sinclair. It leads to higher capital costs, more complex system builds, longer installs, and higher fuel bills

A

s we push towards net zero, large-scale commercial renovation of properties to address emissions across the UK is a given. Faced with inherently more complex replacement systems, correct sizing should be a core aim and a prime opportunity to address costly oversized systems that unnecessarily contribute to building emissions.

Oversized systems can typically be attributed to the use of online sizing programmes, which are often treated as a simple DIY option. The problem is that for commercial projects faced with DHW systems that have many variables and decisions on diversity, sizing programmes will typically oversize to prevent perceived hot water problems. When specifying a DHW system, sizing should be based on the anticipated demand of the building (based on BS EN 12831-3). Within Part L of the Building Regulations (Conservation of fuel and power) for England & Wales is the demand that systems not be “significantly oversized,” but we would argue any oversizing will have a negative impact on the efficiency and operational costs of a DHW system. So accurate sizing

is critical in terms of delivering an optimal thermal efficiency assessment.

Under Part L, the assessment of a DHW system is deemed to include the heat generator and any integral storage vessel, but will exclude all secondary pipework, fans, pumps, diverter valves, solenoids, actuator and supplementary storage vessels from the calculations. Despite this simplification, oversizing still occurs and this inherently comes from a lack of understanding of different types of hot water system, how they fit in the design software and the way that fluctuating demand for hot water impacts these systems at peak.

Dynamic water heater When sizing a water system, the first thing to understand is the difference between a dynamic direct water heater system (with 20 minutes reheat) versus static storage (with a two hour heat up). Difficult to undersize, a dynamic water heater with high heat input and low storage will provide a 20 to 30 minute heat up time and will not be designed to go cold. Static storage, with a calorifier, can be undersized.

Designed to dump then reheat, these systems will have a small heat

‘Oversizing is down to a lack of good design and a tendency to err on the side of caution’

input, but offer large volume store, meaning it can take up to two hours to reheat. Any time the system draws hot water at a faster rate than can be heated to 44°C complaints are going to occur once the initial store is gone. At the opposite end of the scale, with a dynamic system, over design of the flow rate (by as much as 45 per cent) is unlikely to cause complaints. At least not from shower using occupants!

The simplest assumptions, such as the use of pillar taps rather than mixers or designing for a high percentage of baths rather than showers can lead to oversizing.

It is also important to recognise that a gas-fired water heater is not a storage vessel. Under the EN89

seasonal efficiency test an indirect tank has storage losses that should be input into SBEM calculation.

However, standing losses of the water heater are already included, if this figure is entered the losses are doubled up, which will cause the hot water system to fail analysis. This in turn commonly leads to systems being unnecessarily oversized to address the ‘failure’.

The second core requirement for correct sizing is understanding occupancy. Determined by the number of people and the type of building, the peak period represents the amount of hot water used in a period of time. ‘Peak hour’ as it is often referred to can, in reality, be any length of time, from just 15 minutes to continuous for eight hours, and range from normal to intensive use. For example, a hotel might reflect a normal usage curve, with peaks of demand in the morning for occupants showering, then over lunch and dinner from the restaurant. Offices will show a lower, but continuous demand.

So, sizing needs to be based on occupancy to accurately determine peak volume and peak length. This understanding and how it influences the hot water system is critical when sizing and why it is so important that sizing be carried out based on experience, test data, and supported

by IOP/CIBSE G regulation. Modern dynamic systems will supply demand through a combination of storage and burner power. If the peak hour has been correctly identified, then a system will supply all other demand periods without needing to be oversized.

Simply put, oversizing is down to a lack of good design and a tendency to err on the side of caution by including additional factors of safety. The drive to integrate greater sustainability into DHW systems in the form of solar thermal and lower temperature air source heat pumps increases the complexity of systems and by default the chances of oversizing when using sizing programmes. From our perspective, all commercial sizing should be carried out with a 60°C supply and 10°C designed incoming cold mains temperature. These are temperatures optimised for commercial supply, storage and cleaning, as opposed to personal use (showering and bathing) which requires temperatures of 43°C. 

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Heating Technology

Paul Hamblyn is managing director of EuroSite Power

Currently a Green CHP system allows end users to report no emissions in Scope 1 under the SECR

The role of transitional technologies Paul Hamblyn explains why large organisations shouldn’t wait for a “silver bullet” solution before decarbonising their heat and outlines the transitional technology that will get you on the road to net zero

M

ost energy managers don’t need reminding of the urgency of the climate crisis. Indeed, the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) latest landmark report has been called a “code red for humanity” with global warming reaching a 1.5C rise sooner than predicted1.

In 2019, buildings were responsible for 28 per cent of global energyrelated CO2 emissions, reaching an all-time high2. The problem for energy managers is that some areas are harder to decarbonise than others. But once the easy wins have been achieved, how do you tackle the tougher problems?

Most businesses will find heating and powering is a significant source of emissions. If heating is important for an organisation’s purpose, it is very likely to be the biggest barrier on the road to net zero, and also a significant cost.

Many businesses in heating-

intensive sectors are already using combined heat and power (CHP) – a well-established technology that allows organisations to generate their own electricity on site - to reduce costs. Unfortunately, conventional CHP systems still need to burn fossil fuels. This can be a deal breaker for organisations who recognise that a net zero future means almost eliminating dirty fuel sources. But the key word here is “future”. Making decisions based on what needs to be happening in 2040 or 2050 means making the wrong choices for today – and actually slowing progress towards our climate goals.

Perhaps the answer lies with emerging technologies such as heat pumps, heat networks and hydrogen boilers? Well, perhaps in the future. The truth is none of them are a realistic option for use for many organisations today. For any organisation that has already embarked on its net zero journey, it’s simply not possible to wait for

impractical solutions to become more practical or for unproven technologies – such as hydrogen - to come on stream and miss out on the opportunity to take action. This is where transitional technology can play a crucial role in cutting carbon emissions now.

Well-established technology Luckily, there is already a way to drastically reduce emissions while using well-established technology.

To help organisations on their net zero journey, we have developed an alternative to traditional CHP systems that we call Green CHP. It works just like a conventional CHP system, burning gas to generate electricity and using the ‘waste’ heat for a process, heating and hot water.

The difference is that the gas being burned is certified as renewable.

Green gas, or biomethane, is created when bacteria breaks down organic matter. Capturing this natural byproduct of decay means creating a

biogas that is 100 per cent renewable.

It is carbon neutral because the emissions created through the decaying process are equal to the carbon that the material has absorbed from the atmosphere in its lifetime.

Organisations don’t need a special gas supply or differently designed equipment to take advantage of this approach. They simply continue using gas from the grid. But for every kWh of gas burned, we can certify that the equivalent amount of green gas has been produced and injected into the gas grid using Renewable Gas Guarantees of Origin (RGGOs). RGGOs don’t physically track the flow of gas through the grid, but they track the transactions so that there is no double-counting or greenwash.

Thanks to schemes such as SECR, many businesses now have mandatory carbon reporting obligations, and it is likely that many more will have to do this in the future. Presently, a Green CHP system allows you to report no emissions in Scope 1 (because organisations are only burning certified renewable gas, so direct emissions are zero) and no emissions in Scope 2 (because they are generating and using their own electricity from a green source).

Upstream emissions of green gas production and transportation do need to be reported as part of Scope 3 category 3 but only at the rate provided by the green gas certification scheme. So, stakeholders can see that businesses are taking climate goals seriously.

Green CHP may not be the heating system that an organisation uses in the future. But it is a transitional technology that can help them make huge progress on cutting emissions today. Not only is it economically practical, but businesses can also be protected from grid outages, because they are independently generating their own electricity.

We are confident that Green CHP offers a solution that will work for the vast majority of organisations with a year-round need for heat. And with years of experience providing energy solutions, we can work with them to identify exactly which system works for their individual needs as they progress on their sustainability journey. 

References 1) https://www.ipcc.ch/report/ar6/wg1/ 2) https://www.iea.org/reports/trackingbuildings-2020

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Heating Technology Hospital boiler upgrade with minimal disruption to patients and staff ELCO Heating Solutions has supplied four TRIGON XXL EVO gas condensing boilers to The Wirral’s flagship Arrowe Park Hospital, as part of an important system upgrade.

The new boilers, which replaced old and inefficient models, are supplying heating and hot water to several areas of the hospital, including CAL 1, CAL 2 and the maternity wards.

In order to fulfil the hospital’s heating and hot water requirements, two TRIGON XXL EVO900 and two EVO1100 were specified from ELCO’s floor standing commercial boiler range.

The M&E consultants for the project were Wirral-based JD Engineering Ltd. Steve Roberts, project manager at JD Engineering Ltd, said: “The

installation was relatively straightforward, as the existing flue system was already in place and the plant rooms were centrally located. We have

previously fitted other ELCO units at the hospital, so we were confident the boilers would be able to deliver efficient heat distribution throughout the wards. We’ve been really pleased with the end result and are sure to use these models on other projects in the future.”

Ray Hughes, consulting engineer at Arrowe Park Hospital, said: “The renovation went smoothly and we were impressed with how little downtime there was before the new units were up and running.

As a result, there was minimal disruption to the staff and patients. Since they have been replaced, reliability has significantly improved compared to the previous boilers, while delivering low emissions – which enhances our green credentials.” 

‘Record’ results for heat interface unit

Altecnic says its SATK32107 heat interface unit recorded industrybeating results during rigorous tests coordinated by the Building Engineering Services Association (BESA).

The HIU, designed to achieve maximum efficiency on low temperature/heat pump lead networks, recorded the lowest VWART (Volume Weighted Average Return Temperature) and annual primary flow rate on the low temperature tests out of the 23 HIUs previously put through the standard, claims Altecnic.

The SATK32107 achieved a VWART figure of just 28C on the

low temperature tests. VWART is a measure of efficiency and details the return temperatures that would be achieved on a typical UK project when the HIU is in all its operating modes. The resultant figure shows how good the HIU is at using the available energy from the network.

The lower the number, the more efficient the HIU is.

The SATK32107 also recorded a very low required annual primary flow rate of 90.71m3. This means that when in operation on a lowtemperature network the SATK32107 requires less primary water than

any other HIU so far tested. This reduces the amount of water circulating in the heat network reducing heat losses, energy use and carbon emissions. When looking at a typical project, the reduction in circulating water over a year can be the equivalent of five Olympic-sized swimming pools.

Neil Parry, head of specification, said: “The performance of the SATK32107 allows you to future proof the heat network. If the building is currently utilising high temperature sources, such as CHP or boilers, then by installing the SATK32107 now, it becomes a much lower cost and simple exercise to convert the energy centre to heat pumps at some point in the future. The HIU’s will simply utilise the lower flow temperature and supply the demands required by the apartment without issue.” 

Floor-standing boilers come to the aid of luxury Berkshire hotel ATAG Commercial has supplied four floor-standing XL-F boilers to the Littlecote House Hotel, Hungerford, Berkshire, replacing four ageing units as part of a major plant room renovation. This was the first installation of the XL-F in cascade in the UK. In order to fulfil Littlecote House Hotel’s requirements, three XL210F and one XL180F floor-standing boilers were specified and installed in early 2021. The whole process was undertaken and managed by Fareham-based mechanical and electrical building service engineers, J&B Hopkins Ltd. The new boilers benefit from dual heat exchanger technology, which provides built in redundancy, while creating a cascade system within a single unit. The XL-F boiler utilises ‘plug and play’ technology, with the pumps, water non-return valves and flue non-return valves neatly integrated

inside, resulting in reduced set-up time and costs.

Commenting on the installation, Chris Powis, Regional Project Manager at J&B Hopkins Ltd,

said: “The project was devised with floor standing boilers in mind; in this arrangement, the high levels of efficiencies and reduced NOx emissions should ensure lower fuel bills for the hotel in the future.

Plus, the after sales team at ATAG Commercial provided excellent technical back-up and support with any queries that we had which helped the project run smoothly.”

Remarking on the refurbishment, Dean Lavisher, Head of Facilities at Bourne Leisure Group added: “The new ATAG Commercial boilers achieve exactly what we needed for our guests. Ever since they were installed, we haven’t had any water issues whatsoever; the temperatures are now perfect and we never run out of hot water, as we have done in the past. We are now meeting our budgeted utilities targets, whereas before we struggled - while I’m sure we’ll benefit from more savings in the future.” 

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Heating Technology UK’s first hydrogen house opens its doors as manufacturer prepares for low-carbon future Baxi Heating has demonstrated its 100 per cent hydrogen boiler to customers and colleagues in the UK’s first hydrogen house.

Two homes in Low Thornley, near Gateshead, will show the use of hydrogen-fuelled appliances in a real-world setting and today Baxi invited housing providers and colleagues to see its boiler in action.

Baxi Heating has pledged to make only products compatible with low carbon energy from 2025, which means that gas boilers will be ‘hydrogenready’ and can be easily converted to work with hydrogen.

Nick Wilson, commercial and marketing director at Baxi Heating, said: “We are developing new technologies that will help customers to heat their homes and businesses without warming the planet.

“While we are not wedded to any one technology, hydrogen represents a great opportunity. It is

carbon-free at the point of use and enables families to use their heating and hot water in the same way they do today, without major changes to their central heating systems or homes. What starts today with one house will become a community of

houses next year and then we could see hydrogen boilers in millions of homes by the next decade.”

The H100 project aims to convert a community in Fife, Scotland from natural gas to hydrogen next year.

The semi-detached properties have been built

by Northern Gas Networks in partnership with the Government’s Department for Business, Energy and Industrial Strategy (BEIS) and gas distribution network company Cadent.

“Our work with the Hy4Heat project and associated demonstration sites in the UK show technical feasibility of this solution,” said Jeff House, head of external affairs at Baxi Heating. “We believe the Government should act upon advice from the Climate Change Committee and other sources advocating a mandate that all boiler sales from 2025 should be hydrogen-ready in order to help pre-populate a swathe of the housing stock ready for a future conversion. Technology, energy efficiency and business models are all bit parts in the wider picture.

Technology boosts heat output from heat pumps Jaga UK, is making available its Dynamic Boost Hybrid (DBH) technology for the UK market.

DBH has been specially developed to boost heat outputs and provide light cooling with renewable energy systems such as heat pumps and solar energy.

It replaces Jaga’s Dynamic Boost Effect (DBE) product.

The DBH technology utilises small electric thermal activators placed on top of the heat exchanger inside the Jaga Low-H2O radiator to force convection. This significantly boosts the radiator output by two to three times without increasing its size.

“When paired with a heat pump

or other low flow temperature system, most emitters require a large surface area to sufficiently heat the room,” said Phil Mangnall, managing director, Jaga UK. “DBH allows you to substantially reduce the size of the radiator, freeing up valuable wall space and improving the aesthetics

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of the room. The system is almost inaudible and works with the majority of wall-mounted, free-standing, and trench solutions.”

Giving users more control over individual room temperatures, DBH further reduces the need for unnecessary heating and

overheating, significantly cutting energy consumption and bills.

Easily installed during new construction or added during building retrofits, units can be programmed to run to their own automated schedules or set to respond to direct input. The DBH activators are triggered automatically whenever hot water flows through the heat exchanger and once the room reaches the desired temperature, water stops flowing through the heat exchanger and the DBH activators turn off, keeping energy consumption low.

The key point of difference between DBH and Jaga’s former DBE technology is the ability to provide light cooling (noncondensing) with any heat pump that can supply cooling water.

And if there is no cooling water, Breeze mode, where with the activators operate irrespective of water temperature, offers light air movement, ideal for a UK climate.

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Underfloor heating

Heating under your feet Paul Bennett, managing director of BSSEC

U

nderfloor heating is an established space heating technology that is becoming an ever more popular choice with designers, installers and building occupiers.

The rise in popularity is owing to its optimal thermal comfort credentials and suitability with low-temperature, decarbonised heat sources such as heat pumps.

However, the choice for underfloor heating is not always as simple as it first might seem owing to the more complex embedded nature of the heating system.

This CPD article considers wet underfloor heating systems that consist of low-temperature heating pipes that are laid into a floor construction and focuses on the key topics of human comfort, practicalities, system components and suitability for use with heat pumps.

As the name suggests, underfloor heating is a floor-based heating system that warms the floor surface to a temperature between 26°C to 29°C (depending upon the floor covering type). Heat is transmitted into the space using radiation heat transfer and typically provides air temperatures of 20°C to 24°C (depending on the room type and use).

As the entire floor acts as a heat emitter there are no cold spots (provided that pipes are evenly distributed) and wall space is freed up where typically radiators or fan convectors would have been provided.

Human comfort is well suited to underfloor heating as a warm floor surface and the radiant effect mimic the same heat transfer of the sun to

heating surfaces and releasing heat.

There are further air quality benefits in that the absence of air circulation, dust and dryness associated with traditional heating systems is avoided which greatly benefits allergy sufferers.

In a “wet” underfloor heating system hot water flows through plastic or composite pipes built in the floor usually formed into loops. To fit various floor constructions, different installation options are available and the heat output of the system is dictated by the spacing between pipes and the number of loops in the floor as well as flow and return temperatures. The peak temperature is typically 35-45°C flow and 25-35°C return which are reduced as external temperature increases using the practice of weather compensation.

Fig 1. Coefficient of Performance improves with lower flow temperatures and higher outside air temperatures.

For details on how to obtain your Energy Institute CPD Certificate, see ENTRY FORM and details on page 24

Underfloor heating pipes are routed back to a central manifold, usually one per floor or footprint zone, which is connected to the heating system.

Considered at design stage

Underfloor heating is best suited to new builds with modern Building Regulations and standards where the underfloor heating components can be considered at the design stage and carefully planned and included into the complete building and M&E designs. The installation of underfloor heating systems will therefore be carried out much earlier in the construction programme as floor construction factors much earlier on the installation programme. Timing therefore is of the essence and early M&E design and installation is needed as compared with a traditional heating system installation programme.

Refurbishment projects, however, are also possible but require more consideration particularly when considering floor levels, existing fabric, spatial requirements and output. Floor levels require particular consideration as floor levels may require raising owing to the addition of floor insulation, pipes and floor coverings such as screeds – this could be a major issue and ceiling levels and door operation will require further consideration. The thermal performance of the existing fabric may require to be upgraded to match the output ability of the underfloor heating system (maximum 100W/ Produced in Association with

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Underfloor Heating Fig. 2. Typical schematic diagram with a monoblock air source heat pump and underfloor heating system.

UFH Control

User

ti1

ti2

Description: - New Monoblock or Split ASHP for Heating and DHW supply - Recommended heating FLOW temperature is ≤35°C, weather compensation flow temperature control philosophy - Pre-fitted (plug & play) thermal store shall be used to reduce space requirement and installation time - Stored DHW temperature is maximum 55°C DHW Thermal Store is fitted with a 3kW electric immersion heater for weekly legionella cycle and back-up heating source - New Underfloor heating for space heating - Each Underfloor heating zone has own zone thermostat to achieve the best efficiency

ti-n

≤ 35'C

to °

30'C First floor

Control and communication: - User has access to control and monitor the system operation - SMS plc (or asset owner) has access to control and monitoring the system, collect operational data, and make action if required (e.g. fault or due to service, etc.)

UFH Control

Cloud

C ti1

B Monoblock or Split ASHP

C E

ti2

ti-n

Schematic only Client: T.B.C.

Manual switch

Title: ASHP, DHW Thermal store and heating Schematic

SMS Plc remote monitoring and service

Ground floor

DHW Thermal Store Pre-plumbed

m2 under BS EN 1264 but often below 50W/m2 on most projects).

Alternatively, additional emitters can be introduced to the space but this is not ideal. Finally, additional space may be required to accommodate the connections between the floor pipe system and the heating system and the formation of cupboards to locate underfloor heating manifolds and equipment.

Thermal response time

An important practicality for users to consider is the thermal response time of the underfloor heating system.

It is important to understand that underfloor heating systems have a time delay between when the heat is ‘charged’ into the floor construction and when it is released. The higher the thermal mass of the floor, for example, as with a concrete screeded floor, the longer the time delay will be. While this is not an issue it must be understood and the system controls are set up to respond accordingly i.e. switched on and off earlier or indeed operated with a continuous, but reduced, set-back temperature and most importantly that they also weather compensated.

While most underfloor heating systems are installed without problems caution should be given to damaging the pipes during installation. This could lead to leaks and also to the ingress of dirt into open ends of pipes causing blockages. Both issues can be troublesome once the screed has been poured so practices such as pressure testing and flushing are important to be carried out at the appropriate stage of the programme.

The key system components for underfloor heating installation are: insulation, pipes and clips, screed, manifolds, and controls.

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Insulation plays the all-important role of preventing heat loss into the ground and surrounding walls and ensuring that the heat is radiated into the space. A floor and perimeter insulation base is installed that is also capable of receiving clips to hold the pipework system down during the screed process. The type and thickness of insulation varies and is highly dependent on the floor structure, Building Regulations and other design standards such as PassivHaus. In most general cases a 50mm polystyrene insulation board with pipes attached is laid on a subfloor with extra insulation around the perimeter of the room, then a screed of 65mm to 95mm is poured over. However, there are many variants that include floating floor (overlay systems), low-profile systems, structural floor panels, diffusion plates and sprung floors.

There are a number of different pipe types that could be used for an underfloor heating system, one of which is PEX and AL-PEX. Another type is PERT and AL-PERT. PEX and AL-PEX piping is a coextruded

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“As the entire floor area acts as a heat emitter there should be no cold spots in a room” crosslinked, polyethylene composite pressure pipe with a welded aluminium tube reinforcement between the inner and outer layers. PERT and AL-PERT pipes are made with an inner layer of raised temperature polyethylene (PERT) and another outer layer of raised temperature polyethylene on top of the aluminium layer. PEX and AL-PEX are preferred in underfloor heating, due to easier installation and higher temperature resistance.

The use of clips is highly dependent on the insulation type. Extruded polystyrene insulation has channels pre-cut into it with factory-fitted aluminium heat diffusers and a polythene film over the top surface.

Installing pipes with this type of insulation does not require any clips.

Expanded polystyrene is another type of insulation that requires the use of U-shaped clips in order to secure and position pipes. Rigid boards are one of the commonly used insulations, which comes pre-fitted with clips that allow installers to fit pipes into with applied pressure.

The manifold makes the connection between the underfloor heating system and the heat source and forms a flow and return mini ‘header’.

The manifolds are usually located in zones on a footprint and each port on the manifold serves a room or, where rooms are large, all the ways can serve a single room or sub-zones within the single room. Each way is provided with an isolation valve, air vent and drain valve on one header and a two port control valve and isolation valve on the other.

The two port control valve is typically connected to the control system and a thermostat is provided into each zone (or sub-zone) in order to limit flow rates and control output temperatures. The system pump is typically included in the heat source installation although some designs include a pump at each manifold.

The government is looking to decarbonise heat and in its ‘future homes standard’ it has decided on a move away from gas central heating systems and towards decarbonised solutions that include electric heat pumps in new build homes from 2025.

Electricity is seen as decarbonised as the national grid is in turn becoming decarbonised through renewables (wind and photovoltaics) and the increased use of energy storage systems. By 2050 the National Grid is hoping to be fully decarbonised.

Electric heat pumps use a refrigerant cycle to transfer heat from a source such as air, ground or water to the medium to be heated, in this case the water in ‘wet’ heating systems.

Underfloor Heating Pros

Underfloor Heating Cons

Ideal thermal comfort for building occupants - feels natural like the sun’s heat.

Programme time – Earlier M&E involvement is required on projects.

Reduced air circulation and dust transfer – This is better for people who suffer from allergens.

Warm up times - An underfloor heating system will take longer to heat a room, so it is vital to have the controls appropriately set up.

More space and design freedom - Most modern radiators take up space on walls, hence the flexibility of the design accompanied with heated floors.

Floor height Issue – Installing a UFH system may increase floor height depending on design.

Energy efficient heating – Less energy is required due to the lower temperature output and where heat pumps are used benefits from high CoPs.

Testing and Commissioning - A robust regime is needed that includes pressure testing, sealing of open pipe ends, air bleeding and leakage protection.

Reduced maintenance - As compared with fan coil solutions as there are fewer moving parts and therefore less servicing is required.

Cost - it can be costly to have the system installed in a retrofit scenario.

Output limitation – Some refurbishment projects can struggle with output temperatures and may require thermal improvement.

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SERIES 19 / Module 03

Underfloor Heating

The heat pump cycle comprises: • evaporation - the refrigerant passes through a heat exchanger where it evaporates absorbing heat from the source; • compression - the heated refrigerant is then compressed to a higher pressure using an electrically driven compressor; • condensation - the compressed refrigerant passes through another heat exchanger and condenses, changing back to a liquid and releasing heat in the process; and • expansion – the liquid refrigerant passes through an expansion device lowering its pressure prior to returning to the evaporator to repeat the cycle.

The majority of heat pumps installed in the UK are monoblock type systems. This is where all the refrigerant gases are hermitically sealed within the outdoor unit. The outdoor unit is either floor or wall mounted. Heating flow and return water pipework connections are made between the outdoor unit and an indoor thermal store or heating and hot water cylinder. From this store/ cylinder hot water is piped to the underfloor heating manifolds.

The optimal heat output for a heat pump is 45°C and below which is ideal as these are the same operating temperatures of an underfloor heating system. At these temperatures heat pumps have an operating efficiency which typically averages 300 per cent (also termed as the Coefficient of Performance (CoP) with a corresponding figure of 3) thereby reducing their running costs.

Electricity consumption is much less in heat pumps as than with other forms of direct electric heating.

It is for these reasons that electrically powered heat pumps are now considered to be arguably the optimal heat source option for an underfloor heating system.

Careful choice of heat pumps

The use of heat pumps for a complete heating and hot water solution needs careful consideration as domestic hot water temperatures require higher temperatures. An important aspect of UK regulations controls the temperature of stored hot water that is required to reach a sterilisation temperature of 60°C to kill legionella. Legionella bacteria causes legionnaires’ disease which is a potentially fatal type of pneumonia, contracted by inhaling airborne water droplets containing viable Legionella bacteria from, for example, spray taps and showers.

While the Health and Safety Executive consider the risks from hot systems as low risk (due to the regular water flow and tank refill) care is still required to negate any risks.

Hot water cylinders should regularly purge the water at 60°C however in order to prevent scalding and hot water should be cooled to 43°C this is usually achieved using blending or mixing valves that mix hot and cold water. This can be achieved with the operation of either a high temperature heat pump, additional electrical immersion heaters or using a hybrid system.

Clearly the choice of heating system using heat pumps and underfloor heating systems should not be without consideration to domestic hot water production and legionella management.

ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS • Steve Richmond, Head of Marketing & Technical - Building Solutions, REHAU Ltd, Hill Court, Walford, Ross-on-Wye, Herefordshire, HR9 5QN D: +44 (0)1989 762642 M:+44 (0)7921 405948 E: steve.richmond@rehau.com • Max Halliwell, Communications Manager, Mitsubishi Electric Heating & Ventilation Systems, Mitsubishi Electric Europe B.V. Travellers Lane, Hatfield Herts, AL10 8XB. D: +44 (0)1707 276100, M: +44 (0)7917 426382, E: Max.Halliwell@meuk. mee.com • Sam Hunt, Principal Energy Consultant, SMS PLC, Prennau House, Copse Walk, Cardiff Gate Business Park, Cardiff, CF23 8XH. D +44 (0) 2920 739 500 M: +44 (0)7813 304671 E: Sam.Hunt@sms-plc.com

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SERIES 19 / Module 02 03

“Energy in Buildings and Industry and the Energy Institute are delighted to have teamed up to bring you this Continuing Professional Development initiative”

Refrigeration Underfloor Heating

ENTRY FORM

MARK THROWER Managing Editor

Please mark your answers below by placing a cross in the box. Don't forget that some questions might have more than one correct answer. You may find it helpful to mark the answers in pencil first before filling in the final answers in ink. Once you have completed the answer sheet, return it to the address below. Photocopies are acceptable.

Questions

6) What iscommissioning a typical range for COP? 1) Refrigeration accounts for what percentage of 1) When will the UK government’s future homes standard be testing and issue? looking to phase out gas-powered total global electricity use. central heating?

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You may find itof helpful to mark the questions might have more than one correct answer. You may find it helpful to mark the 2) What Which of the followingof affects underfloor heating heating systems? answers in heat pencil first before filling in the final answers in ink. Once you have completed compressor?

2) percentage a supermarket’s energy answers in pencil first before filling in the final answers in ink. Once you have completed the answer sheet, return it to the address below. Photocopies are acceptable. output? the answer sheet, return it□ to the addresstobelow. acceptable. use is accounted for by refrigeration?

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■ 190C ■ What □ Condenser □ 10)20 Why iscent consideration towards domestic water 4) 220Care the main forms of variable Boileravoid capacity the need for meter readers ■ What ■ They ■ Defrosting □ 5) What is the temperature range of a heat source used with production electrical loads connecting at the necessary when specifying underfloor heating 240C Boilerprovide flow temperature ■ household accurate and timely ■ They ■ level?

10) percentage of recovered heat could underfloor heating? withWhat heat pumps? information on power flows across the be ■ Electric vehicles and heat pumps smart grid 5) COSP is short for 4. What is currently the most‘high-grade’? common 9. Which types of space heating system can 35-45°C consideration■building is needed as hotthe water is needed at 43°C at ■ Smart meters □ Coefficient □ No They facilitate export of construction material for panel radiators? management systems besurplus used to control? per cent □ □ 5taps ■ Home automation devices electricity from household solar PV panels □ 45-55°C of System Pressure Cast iron Any ■ ■ of System Performance per centcontrol requires higher temperatures to be □ □ 10 55-65°C As legionella □ Coefficient Pressed steel ■ What ■ Wet systems 5) is the main threat □ to smart grids?

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ENTRY FORM

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To qualify for a CPD certificate readers must submit at least eight of the ten sets of questions from this series of modules to EiBI for the Energy Institute to mark. Anyone achieving at least eight out of ten correct answers on eight separate articles qualifies for an Energy Institute CPD certificate. This can be obtained, on successful completion of the course and notification by the Energy Institute, FREE OF CHARGE for both Energy Institute members and non-members.

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20 24 | ENERGY IN BUILDINGS & INDUSTRY | SEPTEMBER MARCH 20202020

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Products in Action Heat pumps for major grower A 1.9MW heating system powered

by CIAT ground-source heat pumps is providing low-cost, low-carbon renewable heating for Coletta & Tyson,

one of Europe’s largest independent nurseries.

Coletta & Tyson is a major grower of garden bedding plants with nurseries covering 400 acres in East Yorkshire.

The company commissioned Ebtech Energy Systems, a leading specialist in

large water-source heat pump projects, to investigate options to replace an existing oil-fired boiler used for heating its main growing site near Beverley, Hull.

Ebtech’s design is based on three DYNACIAT water-to-water units, supplied by Cool Systems Distribution Ltd, linked to open-loop boreholes drilled into the underlying chalk aquifer.

The system pumps ground-water from four abstraction boreholes up to 30 metres deep, passes it through the heat pumps to capture and upgrade its thermal energy, and then returns it to the ground via four re-injection boreholes. With a diameter of 450mm, the boreholes can supply up to 45 litres per second of water to the heat pumps.

The installation supplements an existing 2MW ground source heat pump installation completed two years ago.

Accelerating investment and decarbonisation of the public sector estate

Radiators help college comfort Opened in 2020 the Falkirk Campus building of Forth Valley College in Scotland, offers an excellent environment for learning. Included in this new campus is a well-designed heating system to ensure students and staff were comfortable at all times of the year.

Key to the heating system was the use of Stelrad radiators throughout the campus – a mix of more than 300 Stelrad Planar radiators –– both horizontal and vertical models – alongside 40 Concord Lo-Line floor mounted radiators and several of Stelrad’s best-selling range of low surface temperature radiators.

Specification was secured via consultants K J Tait and Balfour Beatty

Kilpatrick was lead contractor on the project. The radiators were supplied via the local Wolseley branch.

“We were delighted to see our radiators specified for inclusion in this prestigious project,” said Stelrad’s head of marketing, Chris Harvey. “We have seen our radiators selected for an increasing number of large-scale, education related projects in schools, colleges and universities across the UK in the past couple of years. This building is leading edge and highlights how well our radiators can contribute to comfort in larger commercial properties that require efficient sharing of heat around the premises."

Co-owned by the Greater London Authority and Local Partnerships, Re:fit is the framework of choice for the public sector. It enables change to be delivered at scale and pace, supporting you with the preparation and implementation of programmes of energy efficiency and renewable energy projects. This helps reduce carbon emissions, create income and improve the operational performance of your buildings, whilst helping accelerate the journey towards achieving net-zero.

To find out how Rachel and her team can help call on 07825 963 218 or email rachel.toresen-owuor@localpartnerships.gov.uk If you’re based in London please contact retrofitaccelerator@london.gov.uk

@LP_localgov I localpartnerships.org.uk

New Products Temperature sensors for HVAC systems

Award-winning cassette launched into the UK market HITACHI has launched into the UK the Silent Iconic, a four-way cassette unit design panel.

The unit has already picked up three international product design awards – the iF Design Award 2020 in the Product category, the Good Design Award 2020 and the Red Dot Best of the Best Product Design 2021.

While architects might prefer aesthetic choices, such as subtle duct-type outlets that blend seamlessly with all interior styles, the cost may determine that cassettetype units are specified to meet budget restrictions.

Maintaining the cost-benefit, ease of installation and performance of a cassette, the Silent Iconic design

panel delivers a stylish yet unobtrusive design. The four louvres are black to reduce the visual impact and the central inlet is louvred to blend with architectural ceiling styles.

Gordon Sutton, Hitachi Cooling & Heating managing director, UK & Ireland said: “The launch of this unique and innovative solution bridges the gap between the existing duct type and the conventional four-way cassette, breaking the commercial rules where air conditioning units are selected either for their performance, functionality and price or their visual appearance in the space. We expect this unit to be universally popular – with architects and specifiers, contractors and installers, and our end-users.” 

Extra incentive to monitor heat pumps DMS LTD is now offering its services as part of the Metering and Monitoring Service Package (MMSP), an add on to the Domestic RHI, an extra incentive used to monitor the efficiency of a heat pump based heating systems. The package works like a service contract and provides data and analysis to help you check that your heating system is running as efficiently as it should.

Available as an add on to the domestic Renewable Heat Incentive, financial support can be given over a seven-year period to support the provision of the system, and there are several points of criteria that must be met before you can apply for MMSP. This scheme is administered by OFGEM and is a UK government scheme.

The MMSP comprises electricity

meters, temperature sensors, a monitoring and communication system, and a high specification heat meter. The meter must be able to take readings at least once every two minutes. The only heat meters approved for these packages are the Sontex SuperStatic 440 and 449 as they use a unique patented static measurement principle, a principle which is like no other meter on the market. They have also been selected due to their significant glycol tolerance capability and output monitoring options. 

ATC SEMITEC is now stocking a wide range of IP67 and IP68 temperature sensors suited for use in mechanical ventilation heat recovery (MVHR) systems.

With long-term reliability, the 103AT-11s are single-insulated, fully encapsulated IP67 rated temperature sensors, offering fast response times, and high accuracy (±0.3°C at 25°C). Their small sensor tip is moulded directly onto the cable ensuring the interface is completely sealed, while responding quickly to temperature change. They offer industry standard resistance values such as the 10kΩ/B3435K (103AT-11) and are available in lengths from 600mm to 3m long.

As MVHR systems are often hidden

away in loft spaces, it is imperative that they should be low maintenance, demand the minimum level of servicing and therefore use highly reliable parts.

Within the HVAC market they are a popular choice for use within underfloor heating, heat pumps, solar panels and batteries. 

Take a virtual trip into HVAC solutions LG ELECTRONICS has launched the LG HVAC Virtual Experience, an interactive online showroom that gives visitors the opportunity to browse and learn all about its extensive portfolio of HVAC solutions.

Helping customers to make better decisions the intuitive, online space makes it possible to view LG’s latest solutions in a variety of virtual environments and discover the important benefits - greater comfort, improved indoor air quality and seamless control.

On entering the LG HVAC Virtual Experience, visitors can choose from several business and living space categories: residential apartment, residential home, office general, office high-rise, retail and hotel. Visitors to the online showroom can then roam their selected 3D environment using just a mouse or touchscreen device, clicking on straightforward menus as they move

on to reach additional information like specifications, features, product videos and case studies for each model.

Simple to use and easy to navigate, this new virtual platform is a useful tool for consumers, industry professionals and partners looking to create healthier and more comfortable indoor spaces.

The virtual showroom allows visitors to see the behind-the-scenes details and technologies. By pressing the on-screen ‘airflow’ and ‘piping’ buttons, visitors can uncover how air travels in an air conditioner or air purifier and how pipes direct water and refrigerant through a system. They can even virtually switch operational modes and observe how airflow changes from one air conditioner to another. As well as highlighting the technology and science, the showroom allows visitors to check out all the products’ designs to see how they match various virtual interiors. 

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EIBI-MAY21-Armstrong_Layout 1 10/05/2021 18:30 Page 1

Smart Buildings

Luis D’Acosta is executive vice president, Digital Energy Division of Schneider Electric

Technology advances have made retrofitting simpler and less expensive

Towards the making of a smart building Luis D’Acosta takes a look at how currently available technology is turning dumb buildings smart and reaping the rewards of lower energy consumption

H

ow can current buildings become more efficient and smarter? Facility and building managers fall prey to the misconception that they need a full new technology stack and that will be costly. In reality, they can leverage the technology already in place, revamping it with easy to deploy and cost-efficient hardware and software. Thanks to technology advances, retrofitting today is simpler and less expensive than it was before. As a result, the ROI is typically about three years thanks to the operational savings possible with new technology. For instance, IoT sensors (that take minutes to install) can be perfect to gather energy consumption data, which can help make more accurate decision to reduce the carbon footprint.

Power meters are also critical to any successful retrofit. After all, knowing how much power is being consumed is the first step to finding problem areas and fixing them to reduce energy consumption and, in turn, overall costs.

But, retrofit success demands more of a power meter than just providing information about energy consumption. Ideally, the

power meter should have a small form factor. That makes it fit easily inside a panel. If it’s possible to do that, there’s no need to mount the meter outside the panel in its own enclosure, with wires running between the two. Being able to fit a new power meter inside an existing panel saves installation expense and time.

What does a retrofitted, selfsufficient building look like? Our own offices in Singapore, which act as an office space and innovation hub, were made into a carbon neutral building at the middle of 2020. They now run on solar power during the day time and have been equipped with around 3,000 sensors allowing us to collect useful data to optimise the way the space is used and to reduce its energy consumption as much as possible.

One of the most luxurious hotels in Sydney, Australia, Sheraton on the Park, underwent an upgrade involving installation of its HVAC, lighting and chiller systems and replacing its entire building management system (which was no longer supported by the manufacturer) to Schneider Electric’s EcoStruxure Building. The retrofit

resulted in 15 per cent energy savings in the first month after the upgrade was completed and is therefore a living, breathing example of how businesses, even those with a heavy focus on hospitality, can achieve greater energy efficiencies through the retrofit process.

Three simple stages There are three simple stages to achieving better energy efficiency and savings when considering whether to retrofit a building or facility: Buildings and facility managers should start with asking some basic questions about their current utility usage, such as: 1) How much is spent, and how does that break down for each utility?

2) What’s using the most energy in the facility – processes, equipment, loads?

3) Are there opportunities to reduce energy consumption?

The second stage is to ‘fix the basics’ by taking some straightforward actions to reduce energy usage. Here are some examples: • Equipment upgrades and retrofits.

The simplest, most easily justifiable

way to improve energy efficiency is to replace old equipment with newer, higher efficiency models. Upgrading lighting, HVAC, variable speed drives, or refrigeration systems can, on average, yield between 10 and 15 percent energy savings.

•Tuning automation schemes. Most automation and control systems are programmed for operational results: buildings are prioritised for comfort and safety; industrial plants focus on productivity and output. By tuning automation schemes, energy savings from 5 to 15 percent can often be achieved.

• Continuous energy monitoring. For top energy performance, continuous monitoring is essential. Building managers can start small with a few meters and software, then build onto the system over time. Having and using an energy management system can reduce energy usage between 5 and 15 percent.

So why is energy monitoring so important? It reveals how energy is being used everywhere throughout a facility, including helping building managers precisely measure the energy usage of important equipment. By submetering in this way, it’ll identify and resolve energy anomalies. Without continuous monitoring, it’s likely that a facility will slip back to previous consumption levels.

The third stage of any energy management journey for building managers is to step beyond simply tracking energy usage and react when they see energy being wasted.

They should now have baselines established for systems and processes throughout their facility and be able to see when actual usage varies from what they expect. They can regularly make fine adjustments to improve efficiency in a quantifiable way.

They can see how they’ve improved energy performance since last year and are on the path to continuous improvement.

The way companies approach retrofitting will have significant implications for our future if we want to reduce/meet the European Commission’s goals of improving energy efficiency by 32 per cent by 2030. But it’s important to action now and bring old buildings with out of date technology up to date in accordance with modern energy standards to effectively create smart buildings which are fit to last for at least another hundred years or more. 

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Smart Buildings

Christophe Fourtet is chief scientific officer and co-founder of Sigfox

A winning bet for the environment The digital sector has to move to combat the technological challenges of the 21st century. Christophe Fourtet examines how the Internet of Things can contribute

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he digital sector is responsible for almost 4 per cent of the world’s greenhouse gases, a greater percentage than the civil aviation sector. What’s more, this figure could double by 2025.

Against this background, we explore how the Internet of Things (IoT) can contribute to a more sustainable and energy-efficient way of life.

Although data centres are the main culprit, it is not just data storage that is responsible. In its latest Global Energy Review, the IEA predicts that energy-related carbon dioxide emissions will rise by 1.5 gigatonnes to 33 gigatonnes in 2021, an increase of almost 5 per cent. This would be the largest increase since 2010 when, governments poured cash into carbon-intensive projects in an effort to pull their economies out of the recession that followed the 2007-9 global financial crisis.

In response, the UK government has committed to reducing the environmental impact of digital technology and achieving net zero

emissions by 2050. Progress is being made with carbon dioxide emissions in the UK estimated to have fallen by 10.7 per cent in 2020 from 2019, to 326.1m tonnes. Total greenhouse gas emissions fell by 8.9 per cent to 414.1m tonnes carbon dioxide equivalent, and were 48.8 per cent lower than in 1990.

Expanding IoT device market The real challenge of digital pollution lies in the manufacture of digital tools. The market for personal and industrial IoT devices is exploding.

With the number of IoT connections set to increase globally from 17.7bn in 2020 to 36.8bn in 2025, an overall growth rate of 107 per cent, the number of connected objects used in everyday life will multiply.

Although it may sound counterintuitive, this is good news for the environment. Sensors, trackers and other monitoring tools have been designed to save money, be it in their intrinsic functioning or in the services they provide - by

means of cost savings, a reduction in size, but also in the energy efficiency they provide. In this way, IoT can and should play a leading role in moving towards a more sustainable world.

It is difficult to reduce the carbon footprint of digital technology when the status quo encourages (over)consumption and the mass production of products that have a limited life span. While planned obsolescence is common practice, with the growth of the IoT, it could soon be a bad memory.

As we see a shift from the productcentric model towards a serviceorientated model, IoT encourages the emergence of a virtuous loop.

The integration of sensors within certain equipment now makes it possible to update the necessary support software and upgrade the corresponding services, without having to replace the device.

This paradigm can reduce the manufacture of new products and, as a consequence, the negative impact of mass consumption. But without a

level of monitoring, communication and new processes cannot be automated. Hence this is where IoT is intrinsic to sustainability issues.

We are entering a new revolutionary era. Without dramatically altering the way we use or consume materials, we could see the end of electronics within a century! Why should this be the case? If so very few of us anticipated climate change 40 years ago, even fewer of us today will have perceived the imminent disappearance of the components needed to manufacture electronics. Copper, lead, tin... are all raw materials and resources that, at the current rate, will be exhausted within a hundred years.

The countdown has begun unless we immediately start using these components differently. How can we do this? By limiting their expected obsolescence and encouraging the reuse of materials. To achieve this, we have to monitor our current electronic consumption levels to determine how much room there is for improvement.

A true systemic revolution that must go far beyond the IoT issue to find solutions.

For companies, the question arises of how to combine sustainability with profitability. This is where the IoT becomes part of a virtuous economic and environmental circle. By making it possible to save natural or human resources, the IoT serves both the environment and the company itself business. Thanks to the monitoring of resources made possible by sensors, a company can adjust its consumption in real time. This is the key to a positive P&L (profit and loss) and a more sustainable world.

However, while companies seem to be fully aware of the environmental potential of the IoT, governments are slow to legislate to impose specific targets. The virtuous circle of the IoT can only be activated if all stakeholders act together according to a clear roadmap shared by all those involved. This is a necessary first step in opening up the field of possibilities in the journey to sustainability.

So why not imagine glucose batteries powering connected objects, paper with conductive ink, 100 per cent biodegradable objects (or almost), and even energy collection from the IoT? While some of these ideas will never pass the concept stage, they nevertheless show the digital sector the path to take to a future more in line with the environmental challenges of the 21st century. 

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Smart Buildings

Oliver Iltisberger is division president, ABB Smart Buildings

Smart solutions to buildings emissions It is not only simple to adopt today’s technology but it is economically very attractive to do so. Oliver Iltisberger explains how practical solutions are now available within the budget of many organisations

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s cities become more densely populated, with urban space at a premium, the role buildings play in climate change is under the microscope. The UN Environment Programme (UNEP) estimates that buildings consume 40 per cent of global energy and produce a third of greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions1.

Integrating smart technology into new builds and retrofitting on existing sites is therefore becoming a long-term strategic decision for companies as they manage evolving environmental legislation. The Paris Climate Change Agreement, the UN Sustainable Development Goals and the imminent COP26 are evidence that national governments are forming a united front to address the climate crisis.

The EU, for example, aims to cut greenhouse gas emissions by 20 percent, increase renewable energy by the same amount, and ensure that all new buildings must be nearly zero-energy buildings (NZEBs), as part of its wider strategy of becoming a carbon-neutral economy with net-zero emissions by 2050.

In short, building ‘green’ is no longer a ‘nice to have’; it is an essential element of the multipronged approach to creating a more sustainable world. Smart technologies are key to achieving this goal.

Very few industries can look forward to a similar degree of transformation in the current decade as Smart Buildings, with the introduction of a new generation of digital technologies that significantly improve the quality, safety, comfort and productivity of both commercial and residential buildings.

Artificial intelligence (AI) for adaptable buildings that helps optimise data collected by smart internet of things (IoT) devices is one such innovation, as are touch-free interfaces that address the need for enhanced hygiene in the wake of Covid-19. Space management, intelligent lighting, heating and ventilation solutions will all help to improve employee productivity in a post-pandemic world.

temperature are adjusted, based on their personal preferences from past working days.

Smart technology can be used to revitalise ageing building stock, a significant issue in Europe, where at least 40 percent of the buildings were built before the 1960s. By way of example, electrical systems in the 95-year-old FK Vienna Generali Arena in Austria were no longer suitable for a professional soccer stadium. ABB retrofitted the stadium with the smart technology, including comprehensive energysaving building control solutions to improve the visitor experience.

A smart approach creates a significant opportunity to increase return on investment

Coordinated components

Transitioning to more energyefficient buildings is now central to carbon-reduction strategies, with developers expected to include active emission mitigation technology in projects from the outset.

This resulted in the first sustainable football venue in Austria, one in which all components of lighting, shading, heating, air conditioning and ventilation are coordinated to work together.

There is a natural and attractive relationship between energy savings to benefit the environment and reducing energy costs. More effective and efficient use of power can save money, quickly repaying initial technology expenditure.

Heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) and lighting alone can account for about 50 percent of energy use in an average commercial building. By incorporating smart automation, facility managers may see energy costs decrease by 30–50 percent.

The technologies for smart buildings are available now.

To realise potential benefits to the fullest, regulators need to incentivise their rapid adoption and enterprises need to be aware of both the cost savings and environmental advantages of the new equipment.

Such steps have already been taken to support the uptake of electric vehicles (EVs) and renewable energy sources. It is now time to do the same for a sustainable technology that promises to deliver even greater global benefits. 

Interconnected technologies A smart building uses interconnected technologies to improve comfort and performance across energy management, water use, air conditioning, access, automation, lighting, remote monitoring and communication networks, to name but a few. By integrating technologies, a smart approach creates a significant opportunity to increase return on investment and hit environmental targets.

The concept of smart buildings is not new; architects and developers have been installing separate systems to control lighting, heating and ventilation for decades. What is new are web-based platforms that allow the facility systems to integrate seamlessly with each other, delivering a single view of how efficiently and effectively a building operates. Armed with this data, managers can take steps to avoid waste and improve use, thus cutting emissions and making savings at the same time.

Smart building innovations will also help to make offices more amenable environments for people to work in. Smart offices can become independently intelligent, learning how occupants use their space

and services, and then proactively adjusting systems to maximize occupants’ health and comfort.

What does this look like in practice? It starts with entering the building, as every visitor is identified via facial recognition.

Matching stored data, the building can then identify the ideal workspace and reserve it on the calendar. The person is then guided to this destination via the digital and intelligent system. During the working day sensors adapt the environment to each user, so that light, oxygen content and

‘Building green is no longer nice to have, it is an essential element’

Sources: 1) http://www.euenergycentre.org/ images/unep%20info%20sheet%20-%20 ee%20buildings.pdf

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Smart Buildings

Smart Buildings Show stays connected The Smart Buildings Show returns for its largest event to-date, as the free-to-attend conference and exhibition takes place at London’s ExCel, on 6-7th October 2021

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mart Buildings Show, the UK’s cornerstone commercial smart buildings event, has announced its 2021 event has now opened for registration.

The free-to-attend conference and exhibition takes place at the London ExCel on the 6-7th October 2021, featuring some of the leading names in the commercial smart buildings, technology and energy sectors including Priva UK, Trend, ABB and Siemens Smart Infrastructure.

Following its recent call for papers, Smart Buildings Show returns with four theatres, delivering industryleading thought leadership and technical content; presenting visitors with the opportunity to share and discuss the growing new trends within the sector.

The theatres include Connected Management, which will look at how smart building are managed and how the workplace has changed postcovid; Speakers in the Connected - Controls theatre will look at physical devices in smart buildings. The Connected - Spaces & Infrastructure Theatre will focus on smart buildings, well-being, networks, connectivity and power, and finally, the Training Theatre will offer visitors the chance to enhance their industry credentials via CPD-accredited presentations.

With more exhibitors and content than ever before, Covid-19-safe practices will be followed in-line with venue and government guidelines, to ensure a safe event for all.

“We are delighted to welcome visitors back to Smart Buildings Show conference and exhibition,” said Ian Garmeson, managing director, Turret Group.

“This year’s show will provide visitors with the first in-person event to focus on smart buildings and their associated critical infrastructure since the start of the pandemic. We hope it will provide a fantastic opportunity to network among fellow industry peers and demonstrate how our sector will play a key role in helping the UK to build back better.”

Throughout the two days, Smart

Who’s exhibiting at Smart Buildings Show ABB

Aico | HomeLINK Allied Telesis Aranet

Beckhoff Automation Ltd

Belimo Automation UK Ltd BESA

Bluetooth SIG, Inc.

Building Controls Industry Association (BCIA) CIM.io

Codra Software

Contemporary Controls COSTER GROUP DALI Alliance

Distech Controls

Dwyer Instruments Ltd Eltako

Energy in Buildings & Industry (EiBI) EnOcean

EnOcean Alliance ESTA

ExcelRedstone

Global Associates Ltd

Buildings Show 2021 will cover key aspects of creating and managing a smart building, including: • building automation and design; • building automation systems; • building energy management; • energy efficiency; • health and safety; • HVAC; • lighting and controls; • networks and wireless; • regulations and consultancy; • security; • services and support; • smart meters and monitoring; • software; and

• workplace and wellbeing This year’s Headline Sponsor, Bluetooth SIG, is joined by platinum sponsors aico/HomeLink, The DALI Alliance, Sauter Automation and Schneider Electric.

• To register for your free ticket, visit smartbuildingsshow.com to unlock all the information you need to make your buildings more economic and functional.

For more information on exhibiting and sponsorship, please contact Claire Hatchett at c.hatchett@turretgroup.com or 07976 613352. 

HMS Networks ICONICS UK

iSMA CONTROLLI S.p.A ITVET Ltd IWFM

J2 Innovations

Johnson Controls KNX UK

Micronics Ltd

Omni Telemetry Ontrol A.S.

Panasonic Electric Works UK Phoenix Contact Ltd

Pressac Communications Priva UK

Resource Data Management Sauter Automation Schneider Electric

Siemens Building Products

Smiths Environmental Products Ltd Sontay Ltd

Synapsys Solutions

Synmatics Automatics Ltd Tamlite Lighting Tech Data

Theben UK

Trend Controls Some of the leading names in the smart buildings sector will be heading to ExCel

Turntide Technologies UbiqiSense

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Products in Action

Good prospects for promotion and ventilation at football club NATIONAL VENTILATION, a UKbased ventilation manufacturer and supplier, designed and supplied ventilation for the Middlezoy Rovers FC clubhouse.

The Somerset-based project used a mixture of three fans, which were installed by M-Tech (sw) Ltd: Monsoon Zone 1 Silent fans, Monsoon ILF inline centrifugal fans, and Monsoon ACF acoustic inline fan to provide effective ventilation in the function room, WCs, the kitchen, club room and changing rooms.

The new clubhouse replaced an old WW2 building that had previously been used as changing rooms. National Ventilation’s fans have been installed to help reduce the damp commonly associated with the wet areas in changing rooms, as well as eliminating any stale odours. In addition, the ventilation supplied means that the new function room can accommodate 200+ people to be in the room at one time.

Monsoon Zone 1 Silence Fans were installed in the ceiling in the officials’ changing rooms,

the men’s and ladies WCs, the disabled WC and the kitchen, allowing the buildings to benefit from improved indoor air quality (IAQ) and a room free from condensation and mould without having to put up with the annoying drone associated with some extractor fans.

Meanwhile, the four main changing rooms at Middlezoy Rovers FC were fitted with Monsoon ILF inline centrifugal fans which are high power exhaust ventilation system designed for commercial premises. Suitable for long duct runs and the Monsoon ILF inline centrifugal fans are speed controllable, and moisture resistant to IP44 motor protection rating.

In the function room Monsoon Acoustic Cabinet Centrifugal (ACF) fans were installed. Ideal for commercial applications which require high air flow but low sound levels, the Monsoon Acoustic Cabinet Centrifugal ACF range features a soundproofed acoustic lined box and galvanized steel casing and impellor.

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Humidification

Dave Marshall-George is sales director at Condair

Humidifiers are cool in AHUs

Dave Marshall-George explains how to use adiabatic humidifiers for evaporative cooling in AHUs. An effective strategy can make big reductions in energy consumption

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he physics of evaporative, or adiabatic cooling, as it is sometimes referred to, is based around a transfer of energy. As water transforms from its liquid state into a gaseous state, it consumes energy. This energy is taken from the air, in the form of heat or thermal energy.

In order to evaporate one kilo of water at 15°C, around 680W of thermal energy is used. Which means that for every kilo of water evaporated into an atmosphere, 680W of evaporative cooling is achieved.

For a mechanical cooler to deliver 680W of cooling, it would consume about 226W of electrical energy.

However, it’s possible for a single evaporative humidifier to deliver over 1,000kg of moisture and a resulting 680kW of cooling, while still operating on less than half a kW of electrical energy. That’s over 500 times the cooling delivered from a mechanical cooling system, from a very similar amount of electrical energy.

But, the potential to use evaporative cooling is limited by how much moisture the air can absorb – and this comes down to its relative humidity. If the air is already very humid, evaporative cooling’s effect is limited, but not necessarily eliminated, as some AHU strategies will still greatly benefit from evaporative cooling even in very humid climates.

Three main AHU categories There are three main AHU strategies; direct evaporative cooling, in-direct evaporative cooling and another form of in-direct, which we call exhaust air in-direct.

Direct evaporative cooling sees the AHU bringing in fresh outside air, passing it through an adiabatic humidifier, where it absorbs moisture and is cooled. Then this cooled air is supplied to the indoor environment. A percentage of indoor air is continually vented outside, thus allowing more cooled, fresh air in.

This strategy is ideal for warm, dry climates and buildings that can have high levels of ventilation. However, it isn’t so useful in very humid environments, as the evaporation of the water from the humidifier

depends greatly on the incoming air being able to absorb it.

The second strategy is in-direct.

The air handling unit in this strategy is operating with two airstreams.

One draws cool outside air into the AHU, then passes it through a heat exchanger before venting it outside. The other air stream extracts warm air from the building, passes it through the same heat exchanger and then reintroduces it to the building. Neither airstream physically mixes, but the colder outside airstream is used to cool the warmer internal airstream via the heat exchanger.

Now this can cool a building even without any evaporative cooling, but if you apply a humidifier to There is a huge potential for reducing the energy consumption of AHUs using a direct evaporative cooling strategy

the external airstream prior to the heat exchanger, you reduce the temperature of that external airstream and get even more cooling from the system. It does, however, rely on the outside air being colder than the inside air, either before or after humidification. So again, in very hot and humid climates, this may not be the most effective strategy.

Ideal strategy for data centres However, in temperate climates such as the UK, this strategy is ideal for data centres or other secure buildings, as it reduces the risk of introducing pollutants to building from outside. It should be noted however, that this isn’t a ventilation system, so fresh air still needs to be

introduced by some other method.

The third strategy is exhaust air in-direct. This method also uses a heat exchanger. Warm air is extracted from the room and passed through a humidifier, where is it saturated as close to 100 per cent RH as possible.

This cools the air as much as possible before it’s passed through the heat exchanger and subsequently vented outside. Another airstream draws fresh air in from outside and passes it through the heat exchanger, where it is cooled by the humidified and exhausted room air.

The heat exchange can reduce the temperature of the incoming air by a few degrees, which doesn’t replace the need for mechanical cooling but can significantly reduce the requirement for it. This strategy can also be used in hot and humid regions, as the room air that the humidifier is cooling is always dry enough to be able to absorb moisture.

To illustrate the potential of using humidifiers for evaporative cooling in AHUs, one client we work with in the telecommunication sector managed to reduce AHU energy consumption by 80 per cent when using a direct evaporative cooling strategy. The organisation needed to replace mechanical cooling systems in rooms that suffered high heat gain from electronic equipment.

They developed an air handling unit that used a direct evaporative cooling strategy. Rather than using mechanical chillers to cool the room, they brought in outside air and vented the internal air.

During the winter, it can run in free cooling mode without any need for evaporative cooling, but when the outside temperature rises to around 20°C, the evaporative cooler switches on and increases the cooling capacity.

This allows the AHU to successfully achieve the indoor target condition without ever needing mechanical cooling.  • Condair will be presenting details of this case study, alongside case studies that illustrate the other two evaporative cooling strategies, in a webinar taking place on 29/09/21. To register, visit Condair.co.uk/webinars.

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Humidification

John Barker is managing director of Humidity Solutions

High humidity can result in potentially damaging condensation on stone artworks

The art of humidity control Many exhibits in museums and galleries are vulnerable to damage from environmental factors such as humidity. John Barker explains how they can be overcome

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ome minor fluctuation in environmental parameters such as temperature and humidity is generally not a major problem in most indoor environments. In museums and galleries, however, even quite small fluctuations can cause significant damage to arts, antiquities and other delicate objects.

For example, without humidity control wood will be prone to shrinkage (low humidity) and expansion (high humidity). This movement of the wood may cause cracking, separation of different wood layers and will also destabilise any paint or other finishes that have been applied to the wood. The finishes themselves may also be subject to deterioration when exposed to low or high humidity.

Moreover, high humidity may result in potentially damaging condensation on metallic, stone or other objects with cold surfaces – and could also create a slip hazard on floors.

The impact of humidity on delicate works of art and other exhibits is well understood, so that many museums and galleries require close environmental control in both public areas and storage facilities. This requirement is addressed by BS5454, which specifies that relative humidity (RH) should be in the range 40-65 per

cent (+/-5 per cent) and temperatures in the range 16-19°C (+/-1°C).

Environmental conditions may also be dictated by insurance companies or benefactors that are lending a piece to the venue.

In the UK, most humidity problems relate to low RH, so that humidification is the most common requirement. However, there may be situations requiring dehumidification – perhaps even both at different times of the year. In all such cases, systems designed to provide the required level of control for the specific project are essential.

The nature of buildings used as museums and galleries varies enormously so it follows that the best humidity control solution will also vary from one project to another.

For instance, it is relatively straightforward to maintain a consistent environment in a storage area that is unoccupied for most of the time. In contrast, in areas where exhibits are on public display the RH will be influenced by the body heat and moisture-laden exhaled breath of the visitors – factors that may vary during the day as visitor numbers fluctuate.

Consequently, systems serving areas with variable occupancy – or subjected to non-tempered air from outside for ventilation – will need to incorporate

continuous monitoring by humidity sensors and be able to respond quickly to changes in RH. In all cases there will be a number of criteria to consider when selecting the best humidity control solution. These include capital budgets, running costs and the nature of the building itself. For instance, we were required to devise very different solutions for the Tate Modern (housed in a former power station), Tate Liverpool (a converted warehouse) and Tate Britain, which was designed as a gallery from the start.

There are many criteria to consider when choosing humidification equipment

The components of the system will depend on the nature of the solution being applied. In most cases where RH needs to be raised, steam humidification will be the preferred choice and will comprise a humidifier to generate steam and a way of introducing the steam to the air. Where a ductwork ventilation system is in place the steam may be introduced to the air in the duct just after it leaves the air handling unit.

In other situations, it may be more practical to feed the steam directly into the space being humidified.

All steam humidification systems will benefit from appropriate water treatment, typically reverse osmosis, to prevent limescale formation, extend the life of the plant and optimise efficiency.

An alternative is to add water vapour directly into the space, which can be the most cost-effective and energy-efficient approach. However, given the nature of the spaces in question, humidifiers in the space are unlikely to meet the client’s aesthetic requirements. Wetted media above the ceiling avoid visual intrusion but capital costs are increased by the need for ductwork and diffusers.

A more discreet option is to install small, multi-directional fan-assisted nozzles – around the size of a CCTV camera – at high level in the space(s).

Such pressurised water systems ensure the water leaving the nozzles is quickly atomised (within 1.5m of the nozzle) and absorbed into the air, so there is no danger of wetting exhibits.

As cold water is used, these systems are very energy-efficient and the evaporation of the water also provides some free cooling of the air. This can help reduce the use of mechanical cooling in the summer, though may result in a slight increase in heating requirements in the winter. As the water is not heated, there is a need for anti-bacterial treatment, such as ultraviolet treatment.

For short-lived exhibitions/displays there are also temporary solutions available, such as evaporative coolers that blow air over cellulose evaporative panels to release water vapour into the recirculating air.

In spaces where dehumidification is required, the preferred system is generally a desiccant dehumidifier, optionally with heat recovery to reduce energy costs.

All such systems will also require strategically located humidity sensors in the space to achieve the required level of RH control. 

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Humidification

Steam systems replaced in National Museum of Wales In a recent project, low energy humidification specialists Humideco worked with the National Museum of Wales to replace their original electric steam humidifiers throughout the museum. The existing, energy-intensive humidifiers were approaching their end of life, and frequent breakdowns were resulting in maintenance staff spending a disproportionate amount of time servicing and maintaining the steam humidifiers, often at the expense of other maintenance jobs around the building.

The decision was made to invest in 63 low-energy Stulz ultrasonic humidifiers from Humideco to replace the old steam systems.

Humideco engineers assisted the project team with the design and layout of the new humidification equipment, across the various air handling units and ductwork locations.

Ultrasonic humidifiers use less than 7 per cent of the energy of steam systems and operate cleanly and hygienically from mineral-free

RO water. Unlike steam, they do not increase the cooling load, and there are no throwaway cylinders, or mineral scale build-up, and only

simple, routine maintenance is needed.

The results so far have been extremely encouraging; closer environmental control is now being achieved across the exhibition spaces, along with a substantial reduction in both energy and maintenance costs. In fact, the reduction in overall costs was so significant that the Museum project a return on investment in around five years.

Museums and galleries have historically utilised steam humidifiers operating with air handling units to control environmental conditions in galleries and art stores. But with control of relative humidity proving a constant challenge, and with increasing energy costs, many seek alternative technologies that can achieve close control of relative humidity, with just a fraction of the energy requirement.

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Humidification

Performance upgrades for dehumidification system Munters says it has improved its DSS dehumidification system with performance upgrades.

Suitable for indoor or outdoor installation, Munters DSS Pro is designed for a wide range of industries that demand dehumidification efficiencies such as pharmaceutical, food, and battery applications.

Equipped with the Munters custom-configured control system, the DSS Pro offers full function integration, delivering the perfect climate whenever and wherever needed. It comes in twenty configurable sizes with three different desiccant rotor types.

The DSS Pro offers key energysaving features. It consumes up to 30 per cent less energy with its Green PowerPurge.

Another energy saving feature is the new AirPro casing, an innovative enclosure that significantly improves durability, reduces air leakage, and reduces

When it comes to size, the DSS

Pro offers a reduced physical footprint, which makes the system more convenient to install and can free up much-needed space that can be used to generate revenue.

“DSS Pro provides reliable and consistent operations, reduced system footprint and a positive effect on the bottom line”, says Sander Hielkema, product manager Systems EMEA, Munters. “Our innovative and intuitive selection tool Genesys ensures you get the right Munters solution for your specific needs.

It delivers all the technical specifications for installation, startup and lifecycle of the product, right from the start. Changes are easily made with this smart tool, and we can serve our customers better and more efficiently.

Developed for Europe and Asia, the system is the result of a true team effort with the world’s best climate control engineers partnering with our customers to make this a reality,” concludes Sander Hielkema.

TALKING HEADS Steve Cooper

Steve Cooper is sustainable design director at Armstrong Fluid Technology

A singular proposition Steve Cooper has been at the heart of a sustainability drive since 2013. As he tells EiBI it is still evolving and developing as global environmental demands change

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he project began back in 2013. It’s still going strong in 2021 and is likely to continue for many years to come.

Steve Cooper was a key driving force behind Planet Proposition, Armstrong Fluid Technology’s group-wide sustainability drive. The scheme has been so successful that the manufacturer of intelligent fluid flow equipment for the HVAC sector has recently won a Queen’s Award for Enterprise for Sustainable Development.

“Prior to this there were various environmental improvement initiatives underway in Armstrong sites across the world,” Cooper told EiBI. “Establishing the Planet Proposition allowed us to standardise measurement and set targets across the group. It also created a network in which sites could learn from one another and pass on best practice.

“Armstrong leadership teams in Canada, USA, China, India and the UK signed up to an environmental charter, and a network of Sustainability Champions was established to co-ordinate the activities driven by teams at each Armstrong site. Planet Proposition now involves every employee at every site, drives the development of new Armstrong products, and governs the ways in which we engage with local and business communities,” Cooper stated.

Comprehensive monitoring Planet Proposition addresses some key United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), so the objectives and vision for the initiative are far-reaching. The charter has three pillars: Pillar 1, Solutions: (development of equipment which helps our customers minimise lifecycle carbon footprint of buildings, at the same time as offering lowest installed cost and lowest operational cost) Pillar 2, Environment: (measuring our performance and minimising our own consumption of resources) Pillar 3, Community: (helping the community at large become more sustainable) Comprehensive monitoring was introduced across Armstrong sites in 2014.

Data loggers installed on gas, electricity

similarly aggressive targets for the same four-year time frame,” Cooper declared.

“One area of focus for us in the coming years is the development of detailed LCAs (Life Cycle Assessments) for our products.”

The organisation’s supply chain is also coming under pressure to work alongside. “We are certainly encouraging our suppliers and customers to work towards environmental improvement, and are providing enabling technologies and sharing best practice to help them move forward with their own initiatives.

We are currently preparing a Sustainable Procurement initiative which we will roll out to key supply chain partners by the end of 2021.

Inter-company collaboration

Cooper: 'the HVAC sector will need to find ways of integrating emerging technologies'

and water meters feed through to Armstrong’s ECO*Pulse platform to provide current and historical consumption data.

KPIs have been introduced to measure and reduce the following at each Armstrong site: total electricity consumption; total CO2 emissions; total natural gas consumption; total diesel consumption; total water consumption; and total waste to landfill.

“Our goal has been to reduce our energy consumption by 25 per cent between 2014 and 2020, and we have now achieved this,” Cooper said. “Total greenhouse gas emissions also fell from 4,508 in 2018 to 3,028 tCO2e in 2020.

“To work towards this ambitious target in the UK we upgraded to LED lighting at both our factories, and invested in the installation of a 250kWp solar PV system for on-site generation at our site in Manchester. The solar photovoltaic panels, covering a roof area of 1,550m2, enabled the factory to generate 201,113kWh of electricity in 2020, 171,213kWh of which were consumed in the plant and 29,029 kWh exported to the grid. The solar PV system provided 40 per cent of the plant’s total requirement in 2020. Between commissioning of the system in 2016 and the end of 2020, a total of 969,274kWh of solar energy was generated.”

But Cooper is determined to push Armstrong on to further levels of energy saving. In 2019, Armstrong signed the Net Zero Carbon Buildings Commitment, a programme launched by the World Green Building Council. As a signatory to the programme, Armstrong has pledged to ensure that all its offices and manufacturing facilities operate at net-zero carbon by the year 2030. “In addition, in June 2018 we announced a commitment to reduce GHG emissions among our installed customer base by 2m tons by the year 2022, challenging industry participants to set

Although most organisations have had a tough time during the pandemic Cooper is sure that some good is coming out of it.

“I think there is a growing appreciation of sustainability as a much broader concept than just energy saving. The areas of intercompany collaboration and involvement with communities, that Planet Proposition is built upon, have come to the fore through the pandemic.”

To build on this Cooper believes that government has a key role to play in promoting the sustainability agenda.

“The government has done quite a bit as a start,” he said. “Supporting the implementation of the technologies that already exist would be a key area for government assistance, enabling those implementing the technologies to make a return on their investment. Incentive programmes should focus on facilitating the structural changes needed for innovation and implementation as well as helping families caught up in fuel poverty.”

The support for new technology is likely to be accompanied by pressure on manufacturers to develop new solutions.

“We expect to see a number of new technologies emerging in the coming years that will create technical challenges for our sector,” Cooper stated. “As our industry experienced with the emergence of renewable energy solutions such as solar and ground source heat pump some years ago, the HVAC sector will need to find ways of integrating emerging and existing technologies effectively and seamlessly, to deliver the ambitious carbon reductions that customers want to achieve.” 

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