Energy and carbon
Our new developments are set to have 25% less carbon dioxide emissions on average than Building Regulations require, exceeding our target of 10%.
Building Regulations Part L2A (2006) sets minimum energy efficiency standards for new buildings. These are up to 27% more demanding than previous regulatory requirements. The Government aims to achieve zero-carbon commercial buildings by 2019, and so Building Regulations will become even more stringent.
We are working with our design teams to exceed the standards set by Part L2A. This is supported by our Sustainability Brief which requires that all of our developments:
- Consider energy consumption and demand at early concept design
- Set targets for carbon dioxide emissions in the design brief
- Respond to local environmental conditions in the design, for instance incorporating shading strategies to reduce solar gain
- Incorporate a building management system and sub-metering to improve understanding of energy use once occupied
- Undertake feasibility studies for on-site low-carbon and zero-carbon energy sources, such as combined heat and power (CHP), and wind, solar and hydro power.
Next year, we will review energy use in a number of recently completed properties to evaluate the effectiveness of energy efficiency measures incorporated in the design.
We have started working with our contractors to monitor energy use during construction. Next year, we will focus on improving the comprehensiveness and accuracy of this data. We are also working with our contractors to encourage efficient use of materials during construction. This reduces carbon emissions arising from the manufacture and transportation of materials.
