As many modern educational institutions expand and develop, they are finding it necessary to replace deteriorating school buildings with modern architecture that provides a comfortable working space for the future. In addition, the constant pressure on budgets, and the requirement to meet stringent energy efficiency regulations within Part L of the Building Regulations (that are anticipated to become stricter in the future) architects, specifiers and building managers are continually looking for more succinct design solutions to match their plans.

Apex Wiring Solutions has won a contract to supply modular wiring systems for two new schools under construction in Kingston-Upon-Hull, Humberside.

The contract will see them design, manufacture and supply the modular wiring system, featuring pre-wired distribution boards, fully pluggable lighting and small power throughout, for the Northern Academy and Andrew Marvell Business and Enterprise College (AMBEC).

Teaching young people the importance of using energy wisely is something that appeals to an increasing number of schools. Andrew Skelcey of Trend Controls examines the educational role that building energy management system (BEMS) monitoring software plays while at the same time reducing CO2 emissions and saving money

Trend Controls has responded to the shocking government statistics which stated that the number of young people not in education, employment or training has risen to a record high of 1.16m. Trend believes that the technically minded in this group (more commonly referred to as NEETs) should be looking to develop specialist skills by joining the fast growing building controls engineering sector.

Mott MacDonald's new London office at 10 Fleet Place has achieved a RICS Ska Gold sustainability rating following a decision to undertake a sustainable fit-out prior to moving all of its main London offices to this location in the centre of the City.

The refurbishment of the Everyman Theatre in Cheltenham features a new front of house lighting scheme controlled by Helvar 458 Series products.

Designed by award winning, London based lighting designer, Light + Design Associates, the scheme ensures the theatre management can set appropriate light levels and scenes to fit in with the variety of events taking place at the venue.

The introduction of the Government’s Carbon Plan in 2011, and its accompanying Green Deal for homes and businesses, has put energy efficiency firmly on the political agenda. The Carbon Plan sets out the Government’s path in achieving the reduction of UK carbon emissions by 80% by 2050.

Central to the Carbon Plan is energy efficiency. As the Energy and Climate Change Secretary Edward Davey pointed out in a recent speech, energy efficiency is: “the cheapest way of cutting carbon – and cutting bills for consumers. It has to be right at the heart of what we do.”

Matt Henley, Technical Services Manager for Uninterruptible Power Supplies Limited, a Kohler company, looks at why today’s critical loads are vulnerable, the type of electrical disturbances that threaten them and how UPS systems can offer protection