SP Zero Emission Buildings
Despite intensive effort, the construction sector is expected to account for over a third of total energy use for many years into the future. If global environmental targets are to be met, it is therefore essential not only to improve existing building stock but also to ensure without further delay that all new builds are passive houses. In fact, we need already to be aiming for, and planning, plus-energy houses.In the field of energy efficiency and environmentally accountable construction, SP can assist with everything from development of technical solutions and design reviews, to testing and evaluation of design and system solutions. SP covers the entire range from low-energy houses to zero-energy houses, and even beyond to plus-energy houses.
SP is one of the few parties that can provide a full range of services for ensuring the construction of sustainable buildings that make efficient use of energy, have long structural lives and deliver good indoor environments. SP is a leading authority in national terms, and widely recognised internationally, for its work in the fields of improving the efficiency of energy use, moisture-resistant building design and construction, building materials and durability aspects.
The ZEB (Zero-Emission Buildings) platform is concentrated on energy-efficient buildings, both new-build and through renovation of existing buildings.
The platform includes the following working areas:
- Robust, energy-efficient designs and building services systems
- Good indoor environment
- Quality-assured building processes and building management and maintenance
- Use of materials with low environmental impact and long life
- Recognition of the effects of behaviour and use patterns on energy consumption
- Environmental classification of buildings.
About a score of research projects connected with sustainable energy-efficient buildings are at present in progress within the framework of SP ZEB.