Closing the Performance Gap in Buildings - June 2023

Closing the Performance Gap in Buildings

Welcome to closing the performance gap in buildings! This month, our primary focus is centered around sustainability. Join us as we delve into various aspects of sustainability, starting with KJ Tait guiding us through the calculation of our own emissions.

Additionally, we have the privilege on being instructed to manage sustainability aspects for some big projects throughout the UK. Stay tuned for an enlightening exploration of sustainability and its vital role in creating a greener future for our buildings.

How not to (of the month)

On a recent visit to a high end gym, we spotted this contraption being used to secure the cover plate on a water treatment vessel. We would not like to be close when that fails.

NABERS in Use

At KJ Tait, we have always championed NABERS in Use, proudly holding the distinction of having the first BRE registered assessor in the UK. We are thrilled to announce that our efforts have culminated in the successful approval of our first audited building for the Alexandra in Salford. This achievement marks only the third scheme in the UK to be featured on the BRE Greenbook Live website.

With a rating of 2.5 stars out of 6, the building's performance has primarily been influenced by the utilisation of gas-fired boilers. To address this, we have collaborated closely with our client, providing them with a comprehensive schedule of operational adjustments and capital projects to implement before the building undergoes reassessment in 12 months.

Looking ahead, there is a strong likelihood that the Government will enforce an in-use rating scheme for commercial buildings. Consequently, our client's proactive participation in this early assessment has equipped them with valuable insights into the necessary measures to enhance their rating. By embracing these recommendations, they can effectively progress towards achieving an improved environmental performance for their building ahead of the competition.

Sustainability Champion

We are actively engaged with our clients in a new capacity known as the 'Sustainability Champion,' collaborating on various new building projects. This role goes beyond traditional positions like BREEAM Assessor, granting us greater flexibility to introduce innovative initiatives and monitor their progress, which may have otherwise been overlooked.

In one ongoing project currently at RIBA Stage 3, we are taking the lead in guiding the design team towards creating exemplary laboratory buildings. Our approach extends beyond individual structures and encompasses the entire masterplan, emphasising crucial aspects such as social value, low carbon mobility, and biodiversity.

Within our sustainability framework, we have identified over 120 initiatives that are slated for implementation on-site. These initiatives are designed to achieve ambitious targets, including a 50% net gain in biodiversity, operational carbon neutrality (net-zero emissions), and a potable water consumption target of 10 liters per person per day, in alignment with the RIBA 2030 challenge.

Through our role as the Sustainability Champion, we are committed to pushing the boundaries of sustainable design and fostering a holistic approach that integrates environmental, social, and economic considerations. By embracing these targets and initiatives, we aim to create buildings and environments that truly exemplify sustainability leadership.

NABERS Design for Performance

We remain dedicated to producing designs within the NABERS Design for Performance framework, utilising the IES Apache HVAC simulation engine. Excitingly, we have recently submitted two additional buildings for the Independent Design Review phase. These refurbishment projects have the potential to achieve an impressive Target Rating of 4.5 stars, pending approval.

In Edinburgh, our first Design for Performance project is progressing swiftly towards completion. As part of our commitment to the Soft Landings framework, we will diligently carry out our responsibilities during the handover phase, ensuring a seamless transition and optimal performance.

Regarding 4 Angel Square in Manchester, we have been entrusted with the crucial task of monthly in-use energy reporting. This is instrumental in helping the building attain its stated Target Rating once operational. To keep our client well-informed of the progress, our reporting will include a monthly dynamic NABERS Rating. This involves replacing modelled energy consumption with actual data, providing us with early visibility into any potential challenges that may hinder the achievement of the target. This proactive approach enables us to investigate and rectify issues promptly, ensuring the building performs optimally and meets its sustainability goals.

KJ Tait Carbon Emissions

We are delighted to announce the completion of our assessment of managed offices and travel carbon emissions for the year 2022. In the coming weeks, we will be releasing a comprehensive report that highlights our calculated emissions and outlines the measures we have taken to offset them.

Notably, in 2022, we experienced a substantial transition from air travel to train travel. This shift in transportation choices reflects our commitment to sustainable practices and reducing our carbon footprint. We are dedicated to maintaining this positive trajectory throughout 2023 and beyond, as we continue to prioritise eco-friendly travel alternatives.

Stay tuned for the publication of our report, which will provide valuable insights into our emissions assessment, offsetting efforts, and our ongoing commitment to sustainable practices in managing our offices and travel.