ICOM expresses concerns about energy-efficiency targets
New Part L revisions and EuP (energy-using products) legislation could soon present considerable problems for the commercial-heating industry, according to the ICOM Energy Association, which is involved in the negotiations with the UK’s Department for Communities & Local Government and the EC’s chosen consultants. David Hughes, ICOM’s technical director, explains, ‘The DCLG is looking for a 20% increase in energy efficiency in each new commercial building — savings which ICOM is enthusiastic to help bring about. It is by working with building designers and architects that these efficiencies can be achieved, matching the building to the heating plant and maximising the design to minimise the building’s energy usage from the start. ‘It is important that the DCLG doesn’t take the easy option and put ever more stringent restrictions on the plant. With commercial boilers currently working at around 95% efficiency, for example, any further gains will be minimal. It is about building design and plant selection, plus a responsibility to maintain the plant’s initial efficiency for the life of the building, bringing the owners into the equation too.’ Particularly difficult to meet will be the new NOx limits of 20 ppm, with a 40 ppm allowance if renewables are used. ICOM believes this figure is currently unachievable with oil heating in the UK and only just reachable with gas-fired commercial boilers. With the next Part L document being introduced in January 2009 and regulations being introduced in 2012, the goal is for all plant available in the UK to be as efficient as the current best 10% by 2016, with clear targets for 2010, 2013 and 2016. ICOM members have been working as part of the DCLG’s working groups looking into the best way forward. At each stage, they have been trying to balance the commercial concerns of the UK commercial heating industry with a clear agreement that new efficiencies must be found for the sake of the planet. ICOM members are working particularly hard on the further integration of the current high-efficiency boilers with solar panels and alternative low-carbon energy sources, including biofuels.
Related links:
Related articles:
