Blog: Retrofitting Buildings for a Greener Future
In her latest blog, Senior Chartered Building Surveyor Beth Round shares her insights into how retrofitting buildings can support the green agenda.
The Power of Retrofitting: Enhancing Efficiency and Sustainability
Many of us are deeply concerned about climate change yet feel unsure about how to take significant steps to reduce carbon emissions. One impactful solution lies in retrofitting existing buildings to boost energy efficiency and reduce carbon footprints, a vital component in our journey towards net-zero emissions.
Understanding Retrofitting
Retrofitting involves upgrading existing buildings with advanced technologies and features to enhance energy efficiency and cut down on carbon emissions.
Key strategies include:
- Insulation Upgrades: Enhancing insulation to retain heat.
- Window and Door Modifications: Reducing drafts and improving thermal comfort.
- Heating and Cooling System Improvements: Making systems more efficient.
- Renewable Energy Integration: Incorporating solar panels and other renewable sources.
- It’s crucial to consider how buildings are used by occupants to ensure that these energy-efficient measures are effective in real-world conditions.
Why Retrofit?
Retrofitting not only makes buildings more sustainable but also helps them meet necessary Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) ratings in line with the Minimum Energy Efficiency Standard (MEES) regulations and current Building Regulations.
The Benefits of Retrofitting
- Energy Savings: Consuming less energy translates to lower utility bills.
- Comfort and Health: Enhanced indoor environments improve occupant health and wellbeing.
- Environmental Impact: Lower energy use results in fewer carbon emissions.
- Property Value: Energy-efficient homes are more attractive to investors and tenants.
- Compliance: Meeting EPC requirements ensures regulatory compliance.
- Our Commitment to Sustainability
At Bowman Riley, we are dedicated to advancing energy efficiency in both domestic and commercial properties. Our services include conducting EPCs and providing tailored retrofit advice, as part of our broader sustainability agenda aimed at creating a greener built environment.
Recently, we supported the refurbishment of a former Victorian school into Craven Arts House, a new centre for contemporary arts in Skipton. As part of our role, we specified insulation and service upgrades to achieve an ‘A’ rated EPC and comply with Approved Document L of the Building Regulations. These energy efficiency measures have provided multiple benefits for our client resulting in reduced utility bills and future proofing the building for changes in legislation. We will revisit the Craven Arts House this year as part of our commitment to post-occupancy evaluations, where we review how well a building is performing 12 months after occupation, to help owners improve energy efficiency in real-world usage.
Conclusion
Buildings can be made more energy-efficient with a few simple yet effective upgrades like draft proofing and better insulation, or by tackling bigger projects like integrating renewable energy sources. No matter how you choose to retrofit, you’ll enjoy significant financial savings and contribute positively to the environment. Retrofitting isn’t just a smart choice—it’s a crucial step toward achieving our net-zero goals.
Get in Touch
For expert advice on domestic retrofit projects, contact Robert Baxendale. For non-domestic projects, reach out to Beth Round.
Let’s work together to make our buildings more sustainable and our future brighter.