Category: Technical

Naked Energy’s VirtuPVT technology was a clear winner in the CIBSE Building Performance Awards in the Product or Innovation of the Year – Thermal Comfort category. Phil Lattimore looks at how combining solar photovoltaic and thermal technology offers an alternative solution for low carbon heating and power

Evacuation lifts have the potential to offer a safe route out of a building. Arup’s Eoin O’Loughlin and Harry Wiles, and Matthew Ryan of The Fire Surgery, look at the challenges and opportunities of incorporating them in fire strategies

Air conditioning giant Gree has been recognised as joint winner of the 2021 Global Cooling Prize for creating an air conditioning prototype with five times less climate impact than a standard product. Gree UK’s Tim Boxall reveals the innovations behind its winning solution

Air quality sensors are not fit and forget – they require maintenance and will drift over time. Arup’s James Hare explains how to specify accurate monitoring devices and ensure they remain accurate over time

Bespoke dry room opens up new opportunities for University of Birmingham

For the UK to achieve net-zero carbon emissions by 2050, the cooling industry must radically improve the efficiency of equipment and switch to ultra-low global warming potential refrigerants. Andy Pearson looks at a proposed timetable for action

Over the past 18 months, heat pumps have replaced CHPs on heat networks, according to FairHeat’s Michael Ridge. The challenge now, he says, is to integrate the technology successfully, while still providing reliable and affordable heat for customers and residents

Achieving hydraulic separation through well-designed low loss headers is key for efficient heating and cooling systems. David Palmer and Baxi Heating’s Ryan Kirkwood provide detailed design guidance, including a recommended system configuration

Any conversion from natural gas to hydrogen in the grid must cater for commercial and industrial heating. Enertek International’s Paul Needley and Frazer-Nash Consultancy’s Stephen Livermore explore the challenges

CIBSE Guide D: 2020 Transportation systems in buildings includes the latest in vertical transportation, including ropeless lifts and accessibility for older people. Dr Gina Barney HonFCIBSE and Adam Scott FCIBSE summarise its content