Oversizing of HVAC systems is a £224bn problem globally, according to a joint study by Autodesk and the Rocky Mountain Institute (RMI).1 This found that using traditional static-load and rule-of-thumb approaches to system sizing can result in a 50% oversizing of systems.2 This reduces occupiable space, raises capital and operating costs, and decreases occupant comfort. […]
Author: Alex Smith
Unlocking the secrets of the black box: control strategies for engineers
Changes in controls can deliver big energy savings, but many shy away from tackling the BMS system, says Verco’s Tom Randall, who sets out his thoughts on control-strategy principles to help demystify the ‘black box’
CIBSE’s Building Performance Champion – The Engine Shed
The Engine Shed in Scotland was named Building Performance Champion because sustainability was embedded at every stage of the project, from the briefing workshop to building aftercare. Andy Pearson speaks to Max Fordham about the design process behind the exemplar scheme
Sponsored roundtable: Delivering smart homes using offsite methods
Early engagement with the project team, collaboration, and standardisation of products are crucial if we are to improve offsite manufacturing for housing, according to participants at a CIBSE Journal roundtable sponsored by Hager. Amanda Birch reports
Cost model: apartments for later living
The demand for luxury developments for older people is on the rise. Aecom’s Andrew Freeman looks at the costs of providing onsite healthcare, as well as facilities such as wine rooms, cinemas and spas
Be open and supportive in post-Brexit Britain
As the UK formally leaves the EU, Dorte Rich Jørgensen MCIBSE reflects on her difficulty in applying for British citizenship and calls on industry to sign the #ConstructionisOpen pledge in support of EU nationals in the UK
Bristol Energy – Q&A with head of innovation Samantha Nicol
Samantha Nicol, head of innovation at Bristol Energy, discusses the council-owned energy company’s agenda on sustainability and working with the community
2020 Hays Salary Survey
The UK may have left the EU, but there is still plenty of uncertainty over its future relationship with Europe, which means a cautious services sector and sluggish salary growth, according to the 2020 Hays Salary Survey. David Blackman reports
Taking the temperature – domestic hot water
A CIBSE roundtable looked at the potential to reduce carbon through low temperature domestic hot water systems – and whether revised guidance is needed to deliver modern, safe low energy solutions. Phil Lattimore reports
Tuning into the body clock: spectrally tunable lighting systems
For the first time in a real office setting, a study has been carried out into the impact of a dynamic, spectrally tunable lighting system on the wellbeing of its occupants. Rohit Manudhane outlines the aims, methodology and initial conclusions of the research