This is not a complete design solution but can quickly generate a working feasibility model so clients can make highly informed decisions in days or weeks and at a fraction of the cost of a non ‘reference design’ approach.
As a result, it becomes technically and financially feasible to offset any carbon emission through the use of building mounted, renewable technologies.This means that for certain types of residential buildings, it is possible to achieve net zero operational carbon without the need for a PPA.
For non-residential buildings however a PPA is still necessary.Due to low energy demand, any price increases associated with PPA or offsetting, achieving net zero carbon becomes affordable..This is in contrast to a UK Part L1a compliant building, which in order to become net zero would require a PV array larger than the area available on its roof.
The difficulty in installing adequate PV on multi residential developments will be even greater.The only immediate pathway for these dwellings to become net zero is to invest in either a zero carbon PPA or carbon offset scheme, both of which come with significant increases in the cost of purchased electricity..
Embodied carbon in sustainable building design.
On one hand, a Passivhaus building will need triple glazing, additional insulation and airtight membranes.Through initiatives like the Construction Innovation Hub the UK government is investing significant time and effort into establishing standardised components specifications and even asset types.
PETP program was instrumental in demonstrating the value of this thinking.It was also the programme which first proposed the use of construction Platforms.
This idea has now been adopted by the Infrastructure and Projects Authority (IPA) and is a central focus of the Construction Innovation Hub.. We are both proud and pleased to be part of the gathering momentum around these approaches.The potential of design to transform lives within the prison system and way beyond, is inspiring..