Daylighting Calculations
Daylighting is the process of specification, design and building to maximise the benefits of natural light. Issues such as location of windows, transparent media and reflective surfaces within the design of the building are taken into consideration.
Recommendations are produced which encourage more effective use of energy through less use of electric lighting, passive solar heating or cooling. These recommendations are incorporated into the development and count as credits towards the CSH level assessment.
Ecowise can offer a daylighting study service and report. In the report, calculations will be completed for the daylight factor and view of the sky for applicable rooms. Consideration of these factors will achieve credits in the Daylighting section of the CSH.We have found this service especially useful to Housing Associations and Architects.
A daylighting calculation involves taking account of the surface areas of a room, the glazed areas, the reflectance factor for dirt, the reflectance of room surfaces and the glass transmittance factor. The result of the calculation gives the average Daylight Factor (df) for the room. The df is required to reach different levels for different rooms.
A View of the Sky calculation evaluates the point at which a room no longer receives direct skylight. If daylighting or View of the Sky calculations are required for CSH credits, it is advisable to have completed these calculations prior to submitting a planning application. It is most cost effective to computate and apply these calculations early in the design process. Obviously, in certain circumstances, the only remedy may be to move the building line away from an otherwise immoveable obstacle.
Ecowise can help you achieve these credits if they are necessary. Contact us for advice and a quotation.
Click here to make an online enquiry regarding our services.
or call 01603 864796 (during office hours)
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More information on the 2016 definition of "Zero Carbon".
Housing Minister, Grant Shapps announced additional information about the new definition of "Zero Carbon".
The Government plans to investigate setting up a community energy fund which will be used to pay for district heating and renewable energy schemes.
Developers who pay into the fund will not have to install onsite renewables or microgeneration equipment. Many developers have welcomed the flexibility of paying into a fund rather than grappling with renewables on each site.
However, the full definition of 'zero-carbon' has once again been delayed. This is despite a pre-election promise to get the definition of zero carbon finalised “within weeks” of getting into office.
The new Government Housing Minister has recently announced that the coalition will review the level of on-site renewables required - before publishing the final definition of the standard, which all new homes will have to reach after 2016.
In the announcement, the Minister also re-affirmed his commitment to all new homes being zero-carbon from 2016 and confirmed the introduction of the ‘Fabric Energy Efficiency Standard' which requires a minimum standard in relation to insulation levels and air tightness and thermal bridging in buildings.
Zero carbon is required of all Code for Sustainable Homes level six homes. Clarification of what zero carbon will mean is still to be decided.
If you require assistance with your Code for Sustainable Homes level requirements, contact Ecowise - we are a fully accredited Code for Sustainable Homes assessment organisation.
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Pilot Tidal Energy Scheme for North Wales Coast
Conwy County Borough Council has backed plans for a pilot tidal energy scheme off the North Wales Coast.
The £150 million scheme at Llanddulas in North Wales would provide a testing facility for turbine designers and manufacturers, and assess the environmental impact of turbines.
The project was given approval by the council as part of a strategic regeneration strategy for the Conwy coast, prepared by consultant Capita Symonds.
Paul Terry, Capita Symonds, said: "Tidal power will play a key role in providing a sustainable energy source for future generations. The North Wales coast is an ideal place for such a scheme as it’s blessed with a good tidal range and suitable ocean depth." He added that the project could also help protect the coast from rising sea levels, storm surges and coastal erosion.
The regeneration strategy also calls for seven new visitor centres costing £30m should be built at key locations stretching from Conwy to Rhuddlan. But North Wales Tourism chairman Chris Jackson raised doubts over whether the proposals could realistically be funded in the current economic climate. The council’s approval now means that Capita Symonds will seek funding for feasibility studies and investigations to develop a business case for the scheme.
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Micro-generation forms key part of Government's vision.
Climate Change Minister, Greg Barker, has launched a consultation on the Government's strategy to boost energy self-sufficiency in communities.
The public debate about microgeneration will look at ways to ensure the quality of generating technology and its installation, how to improve available products, and how to develop the microgeneration supply chain while providing more accessible advice.
The consultation follows last week's news that the Government is to overturn a ban on councils selling "green" electricity back to the national grid by the end of the year.
Mr Barker said“I want to see more homes, communities and businesses generating their own energy. We can literally bring power back to the people.Microgeneration is a key part of this vision.
“By becoming more self sufficient we can create sustainable local energy economies. People and communities can save money on their fuel bills at the same time as generating an income and cutting carbon. I want to work with industry to overcome the challenges it is facing. Together we will create a marketplace for jobs and prosperity alongside products and advice which people trust.”
More information can be found on the Microgeneration Strategy consultation web page
