Comment COMMENT
Energy efficient block management
Robert Poole of Glide explains how regardless of the changing political mood, there is a real need for more energy efficiency in block management
T
he shiſt towards greater energy efficiency within block management is crucial due to environmental, economic, and regulatory pressures. As urban populations grow and the impacts of climate change become
more apparent, the need to reduce energy consumption and carbon emissions from residential buildings has never been more urgent. Improving energy efficiency aligns with the British Energy Security Strategy.
It reduces the energy demand, enhances the country’s energy independence and creates jobs . With most homes using fossil fuels for heating, the UK population is vulnerable to price spikes in the gas market, which can lead to substantial energy bills. In block management, the need for more energy efficiency is driven by
the global push towards sustainability and reducing carbon footprints but, most notably, the financial impact on freeholders and occupiers if this work is not done. In addition, energy efficiency improvements oſten lead to enhanced indoor environmental quality, contributing to better health and comfort for residents.
18 | HMMJune/July 2024 |
www.housingmmonline.co.uk
Te effort to bring our housing stock up to Net-Zero Standards faces
substantial financial and logistical hurdles, and currently only a tiny fraction meet the desired efficiency levels. While the government recently shelved plans to introduce a minimum Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) ECP rating of C to private rental properties, the requirement for EPC E remains, alongside the broader issue of upgrading housing stock. Retrofitting buildings to achieve an EPC rating of C is estimated to cost approximately £48.3 billion. It’s also important to consider how data can enhance building practices and
retrofit decisions. Due to the enormity of the challenge and the crucial role of precise data in directing these efforts effectively, cooperative efforts between the public and private sectors are essential. Technological advancements play a critical role in enhancing energy
efficiency. Adopting smart building technologies – such as automated energy management systems, IoT-enabled devices, and advanced HVAC systems – can significantly reduce energy consumption. Tese technologies allow for real-time monitoring and management of energy use, essential for identifying
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