A new briefing paper from BRE and the Energy Services and Technology Association (ESTA) aims to simplify the operational aspects of energy management and building controls. Its author wants to encourage uptake of the technologies so that building owners and occupiers can benefit from better indoor environments that promote well-being, which are more carbon efficient and have reduced energy costs.
Controls are the easiest and most cost effective solution for saving energy in buildings. Clients and building occupiers, however, have failed to exploit advanced control solutions because many of the innovative technologies they employ are perceived to be overly technical and complex to operate. This, when coupled with a lack of information on the subject, has resulted in a poor uptake of control technologies and a subsequent failure to significantly reduce the carbon footprint of buildings and to provide a better environment for occupants.
To help overcome these issues BRE and the Energy Services and Technology Association (ESTA) have produced a Briefing Paper: Energy Management and Building Controls.
This paper is available free on-line (http://www.bre.co.uk/energyguidance) and provides clients and building occupants with simple explanations of the different control systems available. It offers guidance as to where and why a technology can and should be used along with advice on how to apply that technology to get an effective solution in practice.
To help readers select the most appropriate controls strategy the paper outlines the key issues that need to be addressed, such as value engineering, future proofing and training. The document introduces the European Standard BS EN 15232, to illustrate the impact different control systems can have on the same building. It also offers information on how the government’s Enhanced Capital Allowance scheme applies to controls and gives an overview of its eligibility criteria, which can easily be used for procurement specifications.
The Briefing Paper will be particularly relevant to anyone involved in the specification, procurement, installation and operation of building controls; including Energy Management Professionals and those providing advice on energy saving measures and programmes. The paper itself can be provided for any organisation to use and brand – for further details please contact BRE’s leading expert Dr Andy Lewry on Andy.Lewry@bre.co.uk.
Robin Hale, Director of the ESTA, said: “Controls are a powerful tool in ensuring our buildings are run efficiently and provide the desired environment for the occupants. This document will help building clients and occupiers select the most appropriate controls solution for their particular application.”
Julian Kay of Danlers Ltd said: “Controls are essential tools for managing energy. This Paper will help building occupiers understand where they use energy and how to manage it.”