EDITOR’S COMMENT & CONTENTS Impactful year ahead for construction


T


he decarbonisation drive is having a transformative impact on the construction industry and will likely continue to do so as we move into 2025.


The climate crisis necessitates that we do things


differently to ensure our buildings are energy efficient, low carbon and provide a suitable and healthy environment for occupants. To do this, the industry must continue to embrace new and innovative technologies, adopt sustainable practices and equipment and abide by many new and pending regulations.


Kicking off as we mean to go on, BSEE has


introduced a new feature this month focusing on Construction & Renovation in which we aim to shine a spotlight on all things related to the construction industry’s evolution moving into 2025.


How the latest budget announcements will affect the sector is a hot topic addressed by cork spray specialist Corksol UK, which contends that heat pumps alone will not fix Britain’s poorly insulation housing issues. (Pg 6) On page 8 Armatherm addresses how incorporating new technology within projects can help us work towards the Net Zero goal. This might involve using fewer materials that are difficult to recycle, choosing modular designs, or ensuring materials can be reused in new projects, the company suggests. Net Zero is also a big focus in the issue from 20 to 26 in a not-to-be-missed Net Zero Buildings feature. The team at BSEE wishes all our readers and advertisers a very happy and prosperous New Year. Heather Ramsden, Editor


Editor: Heather Ramsden hramsden@datateam.co.uk Tel: 07974 903 726


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The Editor and Publisher do not necessarily agree with the views expressed by contributors, nor do they accept responsibility for any errors in the transmission of the subject matter in this publication. In all matters, the Editor’s decision is final. This issue includes editorial and imagery provided and paid for by suppliers.


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4 News & Appointments Industry news, appointments and quotes


6 Construction & Renovation How will the UK Government budget changes affect the construction industry?


7 Industry Comment: BCIA Robust performance from BEMS market illustrates growing confidence in sector


8 Construction & Renovation Meeting Net Zero with innovative construction solutions


10 Building Services Forum All the news and pictures from the event


12 Pipes, Valves & Fittings Copper vs plastic: a material debate


14 Building Regulations Staying on top of electrical requirements in the healthcare sector


15 Humidity Control Which humidifier should you choose?


16 Pipes, Valves & Fittings Balancing energy and water conservation in HVAC


20 Net Zero Buildings Time to harness waste heat from data centres


22 Net Zero Buildings How can we meet the retrofit challenge?


24 Net Zero Buildings Heat networks leading the charge for low carbon new build homes


26 Net Zero Buildings Transforming sustainability in higher education


27 Heating, Ventilation & Energy Efficiency The future of advanced automation in hospitality HVAC systems


28 Heating, Ventilation & Energy Efficiency Innovation drives datacentre sustainability


29 Installation News 30 In Focus


Read the latest at: www.bsee.co.uk Adveco qp BSEE Jan25.indd 1


BUILDING SERVICES & ENVIRONMENTAL ENGINEER JANUARY 2025 3 10/12/24 13:10


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