Andrew Gaskell, Chairman of the Chilled Beams and Ceilings Association, explores the history behind the technology and the role it can play in achieving energy-efficient buildings. According to a recent report from the Carbon Trust, ‘Heating, ventilation and air conditioning: saving energy without compromising comfort’, HVAC systems account for almost half (49%) of all consumption, with cooling and humidification contributing 3% to the total amount. Modern technology has allowed us to maximise buildings’ effectiveness in serving their primary purpose of providing shelter and warmth to their occupants, and since the introduction of the Minimum Energy Efficiency Standard (MEES) in April, energy efficiency now needs to be at the forefront of designers’ plans. |