Operational Carbon
Operational Carbon : Step 1 To reduce operational carbon emissions, the first step is to implement passive design measures to reduce the need for energy. These include high levels of air-tightness and insulation to reduce potential heat loss. Our cladding specification and detailing provides insulation that is well in excess of Building Regulations, while pressure tests show that we can achieve air-tightness levels up to 90% better than the statutory requirement. Rooflights on 15% of the warehouse roof area maximise the use of daylight, while optimal orientation takes into account the path of the sun and the prevailing winds. Where possible, offices are designed on a narrow floorplate with dual aspect glazing to take advantage of natural daylight and allow for effective passive ventilation. We also provide solar shading to ensure thermal comfort and avoid solar gain. Operational Carbon : Step 2 When energy use becomes essential, we specify and install the most energy efficient plant available, such as intelligent lighting with low-energy fluorescent fittings, daylight linking and presence-detecting controls. High-efficiency, low-NOX boilers with thermostatically controlled radiators heat the offices and different parts of the building are sub-metered to help customers track and manage their energy consumption. Operational Carbon : Step 3 Once the operational energy use in the building has been minimised, we can design and install low- or zero-carbon technologies to meet the customer’s specific operational needs and, as a result, further reduce operational carbon emissions. At the Green Building, Thorpe Park, Leeds, for example, we installed a combined heat and power plant (CHP) that provides electricity and heat for the facility. The heat is produced during the electricity generation process and is used to drive an absorption refrigeration system as well as to heat harvested rainwater for use in an industrial tray wash in the on-site resource recycling unit.
|
||
|
|
www.gmiconstructiongroup.co.uk - GMI is a successful building and construction services company at the forefront of sustainable development in the UK.
