The Project
Schools are often seen as a trailblazer for change in a local community, with lessons learnt in the classroom filtering out into homes. With this in mind, it was hoped that not only would this pilot project result in actual carbon emission reductions, but would also raise awareness of climate change issues facing the world at present. The Trust has set the target to reduce carbon emissions to as close to zero by the end of 2030, with the hope of transforming their School Estate to help transform the planet for future generations.
The Challenge
The brief presented to Make Consulting (Make) was to undertake a detailed assessment of the property (a 1950s primary school), identifying areas of poor energy performance including wasted energy in the building fabric and mechanical and electrical installations. Where poor performance was identified, energy efficient solutions were to be suggested to the Client. Whilst the driver for the pilot project was carbon reduction, all solutions had to be viable for the school’s operation and budget whilst also acknowledging the limitations of working within an existing building. The end result of this pilot ultimately needed to be deliverable.
The Outcome
Early on in the process, it was clear that a zero-carbon footprint for the building could not be achieved. However, through detailed examination into several options, significant improvements were identified and implemented, with the dependency of gas being removed from the property. The introduction of air source heat pumps, solar PV, solar hot water systems, improved insulation, and smart controls were identified as viable solutions that were achievable for the Trust.
The successful installation of the elements noted above has energised the Multi Academy to continue with their decarbonisation plan. Make are continuing to support this client, in obtaining further funding from the Salix Low Carbon Skills Fund and Public Sector Decarbonisation Scheme. In addition to this, Make will carry out ongoing evaluation of the Project’s success in quarterly intervals to ensure that the planned carbon emissions are being achieved.
