A team of researchers across several universities have been awarded a £1.65 million grant from the Engineering and Physical Sciences Research Council to produce new technologies that will improve the energy efficiency of buildings. At present, buildings are responsible for over 40% of total UK energy consumption. This project, led by University of Nottingham Dr Yupeng Wu and involving University of Exeter Professor Tapas Mallick, is set to develop low cost components which will be integrated into double glazing. Dr Wu stated: “We’re delighted to receive this grant, which we are using to adopt a holistic approach to developing advanced façade technologies to achieve building energy reduction goals.”
The expected outcome is a 30% reduction in annual energy consumption from artificial lighting, heating and cooling
The expected outcome is a 30% reduction in annual energy consumption from artificial lighting, heating and cooling. These components would offer buildings the desired energy reduction by enhancing thermal resistance and daylight transmittance. Professor Mallick is from Exeter’s Renewable Energy department on Penryn Campus and commented: “We are delighted to secure this highly competitive research award, which will help provide new pathways to transform how energy is generated at used.”
With input from industry partners, four types of advanced glazing are being developed to ensure their components will be suitable for all commercial building designers. Dr Wu explained their goal of “a 20% reduction in annual artificial lighting energy consumption, space heating reductions of over 30% in the heating season and cooling load reductions of 20% in summer.” Including these active solar energy technologies to improve the performance of windows sets the groundwork for commercial buildings to become net energy producers annually.