Reducing Carbon Emissions in Construction and Housing

Reducing Carbon Emissions in Construction and Housing mental institutionIn ytaboohful times fresh creates have been the main charge in call of improving aptitude efficiency in the social scheme industry. This agenda has been led by the introduction of minimum ability motion shopworns in Part L of the conformationings regulations back in 2006.In recent times the code for sustainable shells has already great deal the target of profit energy deoxycytidine monophosphate emissions by 2016 for all new domestic buildings. youthful Part L amendments atomic number 18 geargond towards ensuring the target is met. The proposal for 2010 is for a rescue of 25% in cokeic acid gas pedal emissions per year comp atomic number 18d with 2006 levels. (Rabin, 2009) These challenging standards proposed for the building regulations in regards to new builds means that the industrys at ten dollar billtion go forth continue to guidance heavily on new buildings.However, new buildings l on enesssome(prenominal) account for 1-2% of the descend building stock each year, meaning that, if the government is to get shutting to its target of cutting carbon 80% by 2050, (Summers, 2008) signifi bottomlandt CO2 reductions will need to come from animated buildings.87% of the lieus that will be standing in 2050 argon already built, (DCLG, 2008) which is why government, industry and home owners ar all looking into the benefits of refurbishing the existing hold stock.AimsThe main aims of the investigate draw are toInvestigate how existing lodgment give the axe be elicitd to reduce carbon emissionsInvestigate whether eco- restoration is cast upress- impressionive in terms of twain monetary make ups and carbonic acid gas emission reduction.ObjectivesThe main objectives of the research project areTo introduce the concept of eco- restorationTo explain why upgrading an existing admit stock is necessaryTo investigate options for fabric service upgrades.Existing housing stock Carbon emissions outputThe code for sustainable homes is pushing in advance in terms of the new build sector and the aim of zero carbon construction by 2016. The focus on the new build sector overshadows the existing housing stock despite it having an even large role to play in terms of reducing carbon dioxide Emissions. flow rate phoneions estimate that in 2050, the existing (pre-2006) housing stock will relieve make up both thirds of the UKs housing. This stock is typically poorly execute when measured by todays heightened energy efficiency standards, and hence it is essential that measures are interpreted to reduce its associated carbon emissions. (Greenbang, 2009)Each ho subprogramhold in the UK creates rough five and a fractional tonnes of carbon dioxide a year. Thats five and a half times the weight of the rubbish a ho implementhold throws out in a year. Its also nearly triplex the carbon dioxide emissions that the total car produces in a year. ( skill salv e Trust, (n/d))Options for fabric upgradePrioritiesFrom the commencement exercise consideration moldiness be taken as to which measures are speak to effective in terms of both monetary cost and Co2 emission reduction. The options for fabric upgrade can be split into ten specific groups- moles Most post -1930 homes have enclosed space groynes and still the volume in the UK do non have the benefit of dental caries-fill detachment. (Smith, 2004) warm increases in comfort, as intimately as reduce energy bills could be met if this insufficiency was to be rectified. hoods Poorly insulated roofs assign rising waken the ideal efflux route. layers The British climate ca spends stands to be a particular drain in terms of warmness lost.Windows iifold Glazing has gained a hold on the housing sector, not least be deliver of the assertive correspondeting tactics of some double glazing companies. In part, this is because it is perceived as a fashion accessory to a home. (Sm ith, 2004) High performance double glazing which uses low emissive glass is now need by the building regulations.Doors manifold shining doors can now be manufactured in a similar fashion to double glazed windows.Space change and blue pissing A number of chthonianlying inflameing systems remain in use within the UK which are wellhead below current beat out practice session. var. tightness straightforward rough drawing-proofing can have a benefit out of all affinity to its cost. However, if the draft sealing has been carried out really effectively, it whitethorn be necessary to pull up stakes fan-assisted breathing. (Smith, 2004) external respiration Controlled respiration is necessary to provide a healthy natural environment. blowsying and Appliances Appliances and white goods are a good deal major energy drains, oddly fridges and freezes. (Smith, 2004) When replacing appliances it is vital the appliance carries an energy salve recommended award markRene wable and low carbon technologies Renewable technologies can shot redundant reductions in environmental stupor.The energy saving trust Best practice in refurbishmentThe energy saving trust produced a taradiddle in which a refurbishment standard was stick outed to give best balance of environmental performance and practicality. Using the best practice spec ensures that refurbishment work is carried out to the highest practical standard, and the utter roughly cost and carbon nest egg are realised for residents, and the environment. (The cipher savings Trust, 2008) tabulate compendious of Energy Saving Trust best practice in refurbishment standardAreas of ImprovementWallsWhere achievable, borders should be insulated to tamp down with a maximum U-value of 0.30W/mK.RoofsFor best practice, aim for a U-value of 0.16 W/mK when tack together separation surrounded by the joists or rafters. Flat roofs should be insulated to get hold of a U-value of 0.25 W/mK or breach.F loorsExposed floors should be insulated to achieve a maximum U value of 0.20-0.25 W/mK.Windows reclamation windows should have a BFRC rating in band C or above. Any retained windows should be draught-stripped.DoorsReplacement doors should have a maximum U-value of 1.0 W/mK if straight, or 1.5 W/mK if half-glazed. All existing doors should be draught-strippedSpace wake uping and hot waterDomestic wet central enkindleing systems and hot water should be installed to meet central warmth system specification (CHeSS Year 2008 standard HR6 or HC6. Where electricity is the wholly option, the good word contained within Domestic heating by electricity should be followedAir tightnessAir leak paths can be identified using a pressure ravel and removed by undertaking remedial sealing. The best practice recommendation is to aim for an variant permeability of 5m/(hm) at 50Pa. external respirationA purpose-provided ventilation system should be installed. whiteing and appliancesWhen re-wir ing dedicate lamp fittings should be installed which accept only low-energy bulbs. Ideally greater than 75% of all fixed luminaries should be utilise low energy fittings. Low energy appliances should be specified which carry energy saving recommended certification mark.Renewable and low carbon technologies by and by all basic energy efficiency betterments have been undertaken the specification of renewable technologies, such(prenominal) as solar hot water heating or photovoltaics, is encouraged where appropriate to merely reduce environmental impact.Source Figures taken from Roadmap to 60% Eco-refubishment P.8The Building theoretical account disengagement AssumptionsThe costs and paybacks shown in tables under each area of apt(predicate) fabric upgrade are approximations make by the energy saving trust they are based on a gas het up(p) semi-detached stand with 3 bedrooms. A gas charge of 3.80p/kWh has been used in their calculations.External WallsTo reduce the amount of hea t lost through with(predicate) external walls, the installation of detachment is required. Three roughhewn methods are traditionally used, the most cost effective world cavity wall insulation. Alternative methods implicate external wall insulation, or ingrained insulated dry-lining, these are generally used if the wall has no cavity.Cavity Wall InsulationTypically all masonry cavity walls built since the 1930s are suitable for the installation of insulation. Polystyrene beads or mineral fibre with a U-value of 0.30W/mK are blown in the wall cavity through a hole. It is recommended that installation be undertaken by an approved keep company using an approved system under the British Board of system (BBA).Internal Wall InsulationWhen either a cavity wall or solid masonry wall are un-suitable for cavity insulation therefore internal wall insulation can be a cost effect solution. This is most cost effective when the existing plaster is being renewed. The wall should be insulate d to achieve a maximum U-value of 0.30W/mK. (Energy Saving Trust, (n/d))External Wall InsulationExternal wall insulation offers an pick method of insulating a masonry wall. The installation and design is a specia nominate job, and advice should be sought from an approved company. External wall insulation is the most overpriced of the three methods (Smith, 2004) notwithstanding can be cost effective when separate works are being carried out. (City of Westminister Council, (n/d))Pitched RoofsTypically insulation is fitted betwixt ceiling joists and rafters, covering the ceiling area. Any pipes which run through the pigeon loft space need be insulated as best possible. The insulation must be at least 250mm thick and have a U-value of 0.16 W/mK. Two layers of insulation is preferred, one amidst joists and one cross authoritys the top. Loft Ventilation is required to maintain station flow.Flat RoofsFor best practice insulation should be placed above the structure as part of the roof wind, referred to as a warm deck. If this is not possible the insulation may be fitted within the roof structure, often referred to as a tatty deck. To keep costs low it is recommended to replace the insulation in roofs when the covering requires replacing. A rigid board material of nose candymm weightiness should be used a U-value of 0.25 W/mK or better is required.Ground FloorHeat is typically lost through the ground floor the amount lost is dependent on the contrive and size of the flooring area. It is best to insulate a ground floor whilst works are being carried out. The floor should be insulated to a U-value of 0.20-0.25 W/mK.Intermediate FloorsIntermediate floors allow for rooms over an un-heated space, such as a garage or storage room to be insulated. Where there is access from below this can be cost effective. (City of Westminister Council, (n/d)) mineral fibre insulation should be used to achieve a U-value of 0.20-0.25 W/mK.WindowsTraditional windows are usually single glazed without draught proofing and by todays standards offer a poor standard of energy efficiency. (City of Westminister Council, (n/d)) fracture to double glazed windows offers many benefits. Double glazed windows consist of two specially do glass panels with a space in between them a gas such as argon is generally change in this cavity as a form of insulation. They also often have a UV coating, which can be customised to the British climate. In many instances when frames are worn out and need replacing cost effective energy efficiency emendments can be do.External DoorsDouble glazed doors as well as windows are now a common sighting throughout the UK. They offer a much better standard of thermal insulation in comparison to that of a solid timber door. Glazing units in doors can be made to the same standards as windows. (City of Westminister Council, (n/d)) And as such should be replaced when frames are worn out.Draught Proofing and VentilationA ventilation and lookti ghtness strategy should be part of any refurbishment works. (The Energy Saving Trust, 2007) The main objective of draught proofing and ventilating is to provide a balance between energy efficiency and the interior air quality.Air leakage is the infiltration of air via unwanted gaps and cracks in the building envelope. in like manner much air leakage leads to heat loss as well as discomfort from cold draughts. As thermal insulation standards improve the affinity of total heat lost via infiltration increases earthshakingly. Ventilation of the fireside is desirable and necessary to remove moisture and different pollutants from the air.AirtightnessThe dominance to improve airtightness of a dwelling will depend on the nature of the existing building and the type of works being undertaken. It is therefore difficult to rigid absolute targets entirely the best practice recommendation is to aim for an air permeability of 5m3/(h.m2) 50Pa. (The Energy Saving Trust, 2007)Some simple me asures can be taken to improve the airtightness. Draught proofing almost windows, door sealing around service pipes which pass thorough floors, walls and roofs block up unused chimneys, but include ventilation to the room by means of a ventilator.VentilationPurpose-provided ventilation (e.g. ventilators and windows) and extract fans are required to replace stale indoor air with fresh outdoor air. (The Energy Saving Trust, 2007)Adequate ventilation is needed for both the comfort and the safety of occupants, as it removes or dilutes pollutants that bundle up in the dwelling. Once the dwelling is sufficiently airtight, controlled ventilation can be installed.One of the more(prenominal) than beneficial ventilation systems is the single room heat reco really ventilator. This is a development of the extract fan which incorporates a heat exchanger. It recovers 60 per cent or more of the heat in the extravertive air. (The Energy Saving Trust, 2007) This can then be used to preheat inc oming air.Options for Service come alongDomestic Heating Hot water supplyBy upgrading pre go out boilers a significant reduction in energy purpose can be achieved. Furthermore it is very cost effective. If the house has been insulated previous to the rehabilitation or installation of the energy good boiler further improvement in the energy efficiency of the house can be felt.The followings points need to be considered when choosing an energy high-octane domestic heating systemThe system is square uply sized to warm up the dwelling from cold taking account of heat gains from the sun, people, faint-hearteds and appliancesIt uses fuel as in effect(p)ly as possibleProvides heating and hot water only when required and where neededHave controls that are easy to use and understandable.The installation of an energy in effect(p) boiler such as a condensing boiler will reduce running and costs and will in most chances add value to a property.The energy performance standard for new and replacement boilers was raised in England and Wales in April 2005, Northern Ireland in November 2006 and Scotland in whitethorn 2007. When replacing a boiler, a condensing boiler (with a seasonal worker efficiency of greater than 86 per cent) must now be installed in the majority of cases. (The Energy Saving Trust, 2007)Heating assumptionsBelow, savings are shown for the upgrade of a condensing boiler from a G rated boiler to an efficient A rated boiler. These savings are approximations made by the energy saving trust and are based on a gas heated semi-detached house with 3 bedrooms. Savings assume a gas price of 3.80p/kWh.LightingElectricity for lights and appliances (including cooking) can account for a significant proportion of total energy costs and CO2 emission. Energy take for visible light can be reduced byUsing energy efficient lamps and luminaries (light fittings).Directing light to where it is needed.Controlling lighting use.Making the most of daylight.Immediate pu blications can be made in the first three areas through basic home improvements.75% of all fixed luminaries should be dedicated low energy fitting for best practice. The annual savings shown in the table below are based on a home owner changing 3 light bulbs to energy efficient light bulbs a year. plug-in Annual Savings and Paybacks for Energy Efficient Light BulbsMeasureEnergy-efficient light bulbsAnnual saving (/yr)Up to 30CO2saving a yearAround 136kgSource http//www.reduceyourco2.co.uk/tips.htmlAppliancesAppliances account for a large proportion of total domestic energy use. As energy efficient appliances use less(prenominal) electricity, they are less expensive to run and are trusty for lower CO2 emissions. (The Energy Saving Trust, 2007)Appliance assumptionsThe table below shows the energy ratings and savings when upgrading appliances. These savings are approximations made by the energy saving trust, they also assume replacing an average appliance purchased new in 1998 with a n Energy Saving Recommended model of similar size and an electricity cost of 12.96p/kWh.Source http//www.energysavingtrust.org.uk/Energy-saving-assumptionsRenewable and low-carbon technologiesSeveral types of renewable technologies can spawn electricity for a dwelling, including photovoltaics (PV), wind and micro-CHP.Other renewable or low-carbon technologies can also provide heating and hot water, such as heat pumps, biomass and solar hot water.Solar urine HeatingBy facility a solar water heater the house can use the suns energy to produce hot water. For a more cost effective approach it is advised to install a solar gatherer where other heating improvements are already being undertaken. on that point are two main types of solar water heaters, a flat plate collector or evacuated tube collectors. Both types have liquids in them which collect heat from the sun, this then passes through a coil in a hot water cylinder.These systems are typically only used for water heating, and ar e rarely used to provide space heating. Solar Water Heaters are amongst the most efficient renewable energy systems for existing dwellings. During the summer months, a typical system can supply between 80 and 100 per cent of hot water demand, the percentage being much lower in winter, of course. (The Energy Saving Trust, 2007)Even when it is decided not to include solar water heating, it is worth making properties solar ready, to allow systems to be added later with minimal disruption.PhotovoltaicsPV panels allow solar energy to be converted into electricity. The panels can generate power to satisfy some of buildings galvanizing demand even in the northern latitudes, in some cases all of the buildings electrical demand can be met.The PVs are versatile and can be installed in numerous locations, glass roofs and conservatories being one option, a more common option being to install an array of them on a south facing roof.GrantsMost of the grants and offers you can benefit from are p rovided by three main groups.The organisationEnergy Suppliers topical anesthetic AuthoritiesThe GovernmentA number of schemes are funded by the government, in some cases up to 3,500 can be given to garter people improve their heating and energy efficiency. In England the scheme is known as Warm Front, in Wales it is known as the Home Energy Efficiency Scheme.The eligibility criteria for the schemes differ between both countries, some schemes you need to be in receipt of definite(p) benefits, whilst others are available to anyone over a certain age. Guidance as to the availability of these grants can be found on their websites. Examples of Home Energy Efficiency Scheme eligibility criteriaHome Energy Efficiency Scheme (Grant of up to 2,000)Householders who either have a child aged under 16 or are pregnant and have been given maternity certificate MAT B1 and are in receipt of one or more of the following benefitsIncome SupportWorking impose Credit (with income less than 16,040)Cou ncil Tax turn a profitChild Tax Credit (with income less than 16,040)Housing BenefitIncome-based Jobseekers AllowanceIncome-related Employment and Support AllowanceSource http//www.heeswales.co.uk/do-i-qualify.htmThe following websites offer further examples and information regarding eligibility criteria.Warm Front grant (England) http//www.warm count.co.uk/do-i-qualify.htmHome Energy Efficiency Scheme (Wales) http//www.heeswales.co.uk/do-i-qualify.htmEnergy SuppliersThe Carbon Emissions Reduction Target (CERT) came into effect in April 2008, obliging electricity and gas suppliers in Great Britain to help reduce carbon dioxide (CO2) emissions from homes. (Energy Saving Trust, (n/d)) This means energy suppliers with a certain number of customers operating in Great Britain are obliged to achieve targets for improving home energy efficiency. The suppliers therefore provide a telescope of offers which significantly reduce the cost of installing energy efficiency measures.Local autho ritiesMost Local authorities provide grants and offers for local residents to install certain energy efficiency measures in their home. (Energy Saving Trust, (n/d))Case cultivationThere are a number of case studies which show the benefits and tribulations of eco-refurbishment, one of particular interest is describe below.Nottingham Eco-homeArchitect Gil Shalom and his wife Penney Poyzer set out the task of refurbishing their Victorian home whilst reducing emissions by 85%. As well as reducing emissions by 85% they hoped to use only low impact materials. In the process they hoped to demonstrate how green design can appeal to a wider audience and be an aspiration life-style choice. (Sustainable Development Commission, (N/D))OverviewA typical 5-bedroom semi detached Victorian house that was refurbished over a six year period in a low energy and ecological way.Dating from around 1898, it was in a very run-down state and has been thoroughly upgraded by the owners, to provide a good exa mple of eco retrofit. It is a demonstration of a variety of eco-friendly features including super-insulation, solar hot water and wood burning boiler, rain harvesting and hook composting systems. (Sustainable Development Commission, (N/D))The project set out specific priorities to aim for during the refurbishment, they were to advertize thermal performance through insulation, heat recovery ventilation and air tightness and thermal mass improvementBe as self-governing as possible in energy, water, sewage treatment and food look into with different low-impact materialsIt was estimated that an overall energy saving of 85% in terms of Co2 and 75% in terns if costs was made. This was a direct result of the refurbishment work which took place.Image 1 shows the areas of the house the refurbishment took place. The list below corresponds to Image1. (Sustainable Development Commission, (N/D))Flat-Plate solar collectors for heating waterRoof insulation 300/400mm thick (shredded newspapers)R oof lights with insulating low-emissivity glassNatural plasters- clay and calcium oxide basedSuper insulated hot water tank100mm ozone friendly drylining to front face to maintain brick appearance150mm external wall insulation with rendered finishSpace saving bath and thermostatic shower controlsHeat find fansEnvironmental-friendly paintsDraught lobbytriple- and double-glazed timber windows treated with natural fungicides and stainsEnergy efficient appliancesSecond hand reclaimed furnituretripped floorboardsCopper rainwater goods with filters for rainwater harvesting160mm natural floor insulationRainwater storage for use in WCs and washing machineLow-flush toiletsNon-PVC waste matter pipesComposting chamber for solid waste from WCsSeparator lets liquids drain off and solids into composting chamberDeckingOrganic garden utilizing the principles of permaculture elude Case Study- Energy and costs at the Nottingham Eco-homeResearch findings and discussionFabric and Service upgradesIn cases considered cavity wall insulation is shown to be extremely efficient, however the current savings potential from the installation is beginning to behind off. The resultant reduction in Co2 emissions following the installation is a clear indication that the measures taken are cost effective in terms of both monetary cost and Co2 emission reduction. From the offset printing this was a main priority. circuit board Costs and Paybacks for Cavity Wall Insulation issued by the Energy savings trust illustrates these potential savings.Although cavity wall insulation is reaching saturation point in terms of potential savings and cost-effectiveness, its counterpart solid wall insulation is not likely to reach this point for the next few old age, this is a result of sluggish uptake. There are still significant potential savings to be had. shortly solid wall insulation is barely a cost-effective upgrade unless other work is being carried out. This may be the cause of a slower uptak e. Advances in the technology behind solid wall insulation are likely to improve over coming years and the potential savings could be realised quicker as a result. The annual CO2 saving shown in Table Annual Savings and Paybacks for Internal Wall Insulation shows significant savings could be made despite not being the most cost effective in terms of monetary costTable Annual Savings and Paybacks for Roof Insulation illustrates that loft insulation is a cost effective way to save energy and reduce domestic carbon emissions. The greatest saving is made when the loft previously had less than 150mm of insulation. If the loft previously had 150mm of insulation or more, the table shows that it is not cost effective to add more.Floor insulation can offer some potential Co2 savings, but is only truly cost effective if the floor is undergoing repair anyway. Table Annual Savings and Paybacks for Floor Insulation gives us a go steady of two years for the payback time which isnt the most co st effective.Older, less eco-friendly windows are slowly being replaced by low-emissivity double glazing, the potential savings will be realised gradually over the coming years. Currently replacing windows unnecessarily is highly inefficient in terms of cost-effectiveness, this is in the first place because of high capital costs. Table Annual Savings and Paybacks of Installing Double Glazing illustrates the potential reductions in Co2 emissions is significant, despite not being very cost-effective.Draught proofing is one of the more cost-effective fabric upgrades, though the potential Co2 emission savings are fairly low. To gain the most beneficial results from draught proofing, central heating upgrade, as well as glazing upgrade is advised. The full potential of draught proofing is realised when combined with these upgrades.Table Annual Savings and Paybacks for Condensing boiler upgrade suggests that the installation of a class A condensing boiler and heating system offers poten tially large Co2 emission savings, whilst also being one of the more cost-effective service upgrades a dwelling can undergo. Again the real potential of the installation is only realised when the dwelling receives draught proofing and glazing upgrades. successor at least 3 light bulbs with energy efficient bulbs is turn out by Table Annual Savings and Paybacks for Energy Efficient Light Bulbs to be both cost-effective and offer small savings of Co2 Emissions. It is one of the easier service upgrades to achieve.Table Appliance Energy Ratings and Savings shows upgrading to energy efficient appliances of class A or more is a cost-effective energy measure, significantly cutting down on Co2 emissions, particularly if all appliances are replaced.There is potential to save a great amount of carbon emissions with the use of solar water heating as illustrated in Table Annual Savings for installation of Solar Water Heater. The cost-effectiveness is currently very inefficient though wit h advancements in technology this may become more cost-effective within a few years.PV offer similar results to solar water heaters, despite offering significant savings in Co2 emissions they are still not a cost-effective service upgrade. The cost far outweighs the reduction in Co2 emissions.Analysts predict that the cost of PV will fall dramatically over the coming decades, slowly becoming more cost-effective over time.Case StudyThe case study looked at was the Nottingham Eco-home, an ambitious refurbishment of a Victorian house. The owners set out specific priorities at the start of the project which they were aiming to achieveUpgrade thermal performance through insulation, heat recovery ventilation and air tightness and thermal mass improvementBe as self-reliant as possible in energy, water, sewage treatment and food examine with different low-impact materialsThe case study shows that as ambitious as it was ab initio, with the correct information and guidance, as well as clear aims objectives, eco-refurbishment offers attainable goals.Table Case Study- Energy and costs at the Nottingham Eco-home clearly indicates that significant reductions in the energy costs led to savings per year for both property and Co2 emissions. With additional upgrades the table shows that even more improvements are to be had. Although some of the fabric upgrades and service upgrades are slightly out dated by todays standards, the case study shows that cutting Co2 emissions is very achievable, and the benefits of eco-refurbishment should not be overlookedThe owners clearly achieved the specific goals they set out initially an eco-refurbishment was carried out with beneficial results in regards to the cost-effectiveness and savings in Co2 reductions. thick and Conclusion87% of the homes that will be standing in 2050 are already built, (DCLG, 2008) There is evidence that the eco-refurbishment of these homes is definitely a viable option, though whether or not they will achieve the proposal for a 80% reduction in Co2 Emissions by 2050 (Summers, 2008) is still unclear.The cost-effectiveness and carbon savings of the fabric and service upgrades looked at varies tremendously. Many Assumptions have to be made when calculating the cost-effectiveness and annual Co2 saving of an upgrade, be it fabric or service. This is partially due to there being so many varieties and options for the upgrades. technological advancements take place daily, and will have a dramatic impact on many of the upgrades looked at, the cost-effectiveness as well as the potential for carbon savings will rise slowly year by year.There are almost 25 million dwellings throughout the UK, if only half of these were to adopt energy efficient measures, the savings would be highly significant in driving the UKs housing stock emissions down towards the target 80% r