BSEE NOVEMBER 2010 TM CIBSE calls for streamlining of regulations
CIBSE has called for the Building and Energy Performance Regulations to be streamlined, in response to the government consultation on future changes to building regulations. CIBSE believes that there is an opportunity to rationalise the energy efficiency elements of the Building Regulations and the Energy Performance of Buildings Regulations, which are currently separate. It would offer the chance to reduce the time and cost involved in implementing the recast EPBD and the next cycle of revisions to Part L of the Building Regulations, scheduled to run in parallel.
“Given the links between the Building and Energy Performance Regulations and the closely aligned timescales for the next cycle of revisions to Building Regulations and implementation of the recast, we believe this offers an opportunity to save time and money, both for the industry and Government,” said Hywel Davies, CIBSE’s Technical Director.
CIBSE proposes arrangements to cover compliance with the energy related elements of the regulations, which combine the accreditation and quality assurance of all the activities related to energy performance in buildings.
The Building Regulations and the Energy Performance Regulations have a significant and growing role to play in achieving government policy objectives in relation to both carbon emissions and climate change, and to energy supply and security issues.
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Make classroom air quality a priority Trevor Palmer of Sontay and Andy Westmorland of The Controls Consultancy, look at the importance of good ventilation and fresh air quality in the classroom. See page 18
Cooler cables cut energy consumption Paul Courson of Cablofil discusses the independent tests carried out to demonstrate the relative cooling and energy efficiency benefits of varying types of cable containment. See page 25
Technology provides significant benefits
Bernard Pratley, Technical Manager at ICEL, reports on the latest emergency lighting technologies that bring significant safety, cost and maintenance benefits. See page 29
World's first freeform curved escalator
Architects will be able to create escalators in any shape they want, even freeform curves, thanks to the first significant rethink of escalator design since the moving stairway was invented in 1897.
A system known as the Levytator has been developed by Jack Levy, an Emeritus Professor of Mechanical Engineering at City University London. Unlike traditional designs, where redundant steps move underneath those in use, the Levytator utilises a continuous loop of curved modules, which can follow any path upwards, flatten and straighten out, and descend once more, all with passengers onboard.
The system can be arranged in any configuration – as a DNA-esque double helix in a science museum, for example, and also offers several practical advantages at a cost that is similar to a conventional unit. “As all of the steps can be accessed from above, maintenance can be carried out much easier,” says Levy. “It also means that no excavation is required when
installing the Levytator. This could be particularly useful in the heritage sector, where the system could be placed on top of a grand staircase in a listed stately home, providing better access for elderly and disabled visitors, but not destroying the fabric of the building.” David Chan, Director of City’s Centre for Information Leadership and consultant to the project, adds: “The Levytator opens up new possibilities for architects in hotel, airport, museum, theme park and commercial building design. As it can carry twice as many people as a traditional escalator, but at a comparable price, it will also be an attractive financial proposition.” The technology has been patented in the UK, Europe, the USA, and China, and City University London is now actively seeking strategic partnerships with architects and manufacturers to take the Levytator to market.
Heathrow powers down to win award
Heathrow Airport has been awarded the Carbon Trust Standard after saving enough energy over the last three years to power more than 6,300 home for a year. The UK's hub airport improved its carbon efficiency by nearly 12%, despite turnover growth of 31%. This means that for every pound in income, 12% less carbon was emitted. Heathrow joins over 350 UK organisations who have gained the Carbon Trust Standard - the world’s first award that recognises real carbon reduction. It's a rigorous, independent assessment which certifies that organisations have measured, managed and improved carbon efficiency. Heathrow is on track to make further savings this year, having already cut energy use through smart operation of lifts, escalators and baggage conveyors. Large savings also came through careful management of heating, cooling and ventilation, as well as modernised lighting systems and more efficient waste recycling. Major renewable energy investments such as biomass and combined heat and power plant are also leading the way in greening the airport's energy supply.
With complex and near constant operation - particularly around its unique security requirements - improving the carbon efficiency of Heathrow's operations is a complex and difficult task. And with over 77,000 workers on site (the majority of whom are not employed by Heathrow) much of the success is down to close collaboration and the commitment of those on the ground. Colin Matthews, Chief Executive of BAA, said: "There is no silver bullet to improving carbon efficiency, but through a great team effort we are delighted to have obtained recognition for the progress we have made. This is the first step on a long road to helping the government meet the strict environmental targets which also form a core part of Heathrow's strategy. Despite the major challenges ahead, we are confident that our investments in people and infrastructure will secure real long-term success in reducing our carbon footprint." Jonathon Counsell, Head of Environment for British Airways, said: "This is another good example of how Heathrow is striving to reduce its impact on the environment. We have been proud to play our part in supporting the airport to achieve this reduction. At the main Terminal 5 building alone we have managed to reduce energy consumption by 19% since it opened in March 2008 and have already identified another 3% in potential savings. Through working together we will be able to bring significant improvements to the way Heathrow operates."
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