News

Architects and contractors working on the new Kenilworth School being built in Glasshouse Lane are working together to implement a raft of low carbon technology measures to help minimise the impact of the building on the environment.

As well as ensuring a lower demand for energy in the first place by creating a thermally efficient shell, a number of technologies will be installed to help reduce energy use.

These include installing solar PV panels on the roof of one of the building’s five ‘wings’ to generate much of the school’s energy requirements and reduce its CO2 emissions – with any excess being sold to the National Grid.

The school will also benefit from high efficiency boilers, cutting edge air source heat recovery units and energy recovery devices, or thermal wheels, within mechanical ventilation systems.

Low energy LED lighting will be used in conjunction with a state-of-the-art lighting control system, which, when natural daylight is sufficient will dim the light fittings to conserve even more energy.  Lighting control detectors will ensure that lighting is dimmed or switched off when rooms are not occupied.

Sensors will ensure that lighting is dimmed or switched off when there is sufficient daylight or when rooms are not occupied.

Sustainable drainage systems (SuDS) will manage surface water drainage in a way which mimics the natural environment. This method is believed to be one of the most effective ways of achieving sustainability and managing flood risk.

Executive head of Kenilworth School and Sixth Form/KMAT Hayden Abbott said: “We’re excited to be part of the future of low energy construction. As well as many other energy saving features, such as a thermally efficient fabric, the contractors are embracing cutting edge technology to ensure the building’s impact on the environment is minimised.”