Category: Technical

The Energy Act 2023 paves the way for the mass rollout of heat networks in the UK, and the mandatory connection of many buildings. Alex Smith speaks to FairHeat’s Gareth Jones about government plans to regulate new networks and raise the standard of the 14,000 already in place

A new standard covering the use of infrared in LiFi communication catapults the technology into mainstream relevance – a move that could redefine data communication in built environments, says LiFi.co’s Jeroen van Gils

A six-storey timber façade at the Black and White office building in London helped slash embodied carbon and won its engineer an SFE Façade 2023 Design and Engineering Award. Andy Pearson finds out how the winning design was engineered while alleviating safety risks

Traditional roofs in Japan were designed to deflect rainwater away from a building and these types of roof forms are an elegant and sustainable alternative to the pipework and guttering used now. Jake Cherniayeff says a performance-based design approach can achieve similar drainage strategies on modern buildings

Advanced techniques in lighting analysis are allowing designers to reintroduce daylighting into galleries without damaging the exhibits or causing visual discomfort to those viewing them. Max Fordham’s Nick Cramp highlights the benefits

No longer an optional extra, control systems have become an integral component of lighting schemes. Jill Entwistle talks to Sophie Parry about the Society of Light and Lighting’s updated guide to an increasingly important field

The optimisation of HVAC controls for a Croydon office has reduced energy use by 28% over nine months, resulting in a £171,000 saving in operational energy costs. REsustain’s Annie Marston describes how CO2 was slashed for a minimal capital cost

Eight industry experts came together to discuss the challenges of decarbonising heating in CIBSE Journal’s latest roundtable.
Amanda Birch sums up the main points of debate

Octopus Energy is offering a partnership with housebuilders that guarantees zero energy bills for occupiers using its Kraken technology platform. Andy Pearson speaks to Nigel Banks about the company’s first pilot and a 200-home scheme planned with Bellway Homes