Element Energy

CO2 reduction in new developments

Zero Carbon policy requires a step change in the design and specification of new buildings. Although formal introduction of the policy into Part L of the Building Regulations is not expected until 2016 (for dwellings) / 2019 (for other buildings), planning authorities are already requiring developers to meet intermediate levels of the Code for Sustainable Homes. This presents developers with significant challenges, as they must meet strict CO2 targets while providing attractively priced and appealing homes. Element Energy has developed numerous site energy strategies for new developments to answer the following questions:

  • What are the expected loads for heating and electricity for the planned floor areas and building types?
  • What energy demand and CO2 reduction targets are required to comply with Building Regulations and local planning conditions?
  • What are the costs of fabric measures and renewable heating and electricity systems required to meet the target?
  • What are the relative costs (capital and ongoing) of individual versus site-wide measures?
  • What are the constraints to deploying on-site renewables? We use geographical information systems (GIS) to estimate the proximity of biomass resources for CHP, or the wind resource for on-site turbines.
  • Are there opportunities for interaction with other local energy initiatives, for example the London District Heating Network?

We have recently carried out two major energy strategies for the Ballymore Group at the Royal Docks and Nine Elms. These projects have allowed the developer to proceed with a cost-effective and compliant plan for meeting the required emissions targets. We have also delivered a review of an existing energy strategy on behalf of Winchester City Council, and acted as an expert witness in a planning hearing. Our continuing work for central government on the design of the ZCH policies ensures that we have the very latest knowledge of the current and expected policies, as well as readily accessible data on the costs of low carbon technologies.

Aerial photograph of the Royal Docks. Annotation indicates proposed development sites.