Architects and specifiers

Specifiers are under constant pressure to meet new regulations, to produce more sustainable homes, reduce running costs for home-owners and be more environmentally responsible.

A recent national survey, conducted by a leading insurer, shows that environmental concerns have become a priority amongst British homeowners.

Defining energy efficiency

Energy efficiency in housing is about providing the required internal environment at the lowest energy cost required by the client.

The internal environment can be measured in terms of temperatures, moisture levels, ventilation, hot water, lighting and appliance requirements.

Following construction or refurbishment, all housing should be as energy efficient as cost-effectiveness allows, in order to:

• reduce fuel bills and provide affordable warmth

• lower management and maintenance costs

• increase property value (and rent revenue)

• reduce global and local pollution

• conserve fossil fuel resources

Why integrated design?

Energy efficient systems must be designed so that the insulation, heating and ventilation work together. With adequate temperatures and ventilation levels, an integrated design enhances cost-effectiveness in construction and decreases fuel costs. For example, maximising the insulation standard can influence the choice and capital cost of the heating system.

The SAP home energy rating

The Standard Assessment Procedure (SAP), an energy rating for housing takes into account space and water heating. It is expressed on a scale of 1 for a very inefficient home, to 120 for one that is extremely energy efficient. Although the SAP does not directly give fuel use estimates, it allows comparison of various energy efficiency packages.

The Government is encouraging builders, local authorities, housing associations and those concerned with the UK housing stock to use SAP energy ratings as a means of assessing the energy performance of dwellings. A number of home energy rating organisations provide SAP ratings. The current list of authorisedorganisations can be obtained from Energy Efficiency Best Practice in Housing Programme or www.bre.co.uk/sap2001. Some SAP calculation software also includes fuel use prediction.

The Design Advice scheme

The Design Advice scheme is a Government initiative aimed at improving the energy and environmental performance of building stock. Housing refurbishment projects with a floor area of 500 m2 or more can benefit from subsidised energy design advice. Further details can be obtained from the Carbon Trust on 0800 085 2005 or visit www.thecarbontrust.co.uk