17th century listed building to slash annual energy bill by 34%
Services Used
Retrofit Assessment, Whole House Plan
The Challenge
A client’s 17th century cottage and barn conversion had recently been awarded a poor energy efficiency rating so he began looking for the guidance and expertise of a retrofit provider.
Our client Ian wanted to significantly improve the insulation of his barn conversion as it was very cold and draughty. He knew that he would need a professional, comprehensive assessment of the property due to the barn’s age and listed building status. He learned of the benefits of a retrofit assessment in a national newspaper article and after further research, he found Energy Lock.
The Solution
As a company with expert knowledge of working with older and listed buildings, Ian chose us to carry out his retrofit assessment and extensive whole house plan. We provided a targeted report on how his property currently consumed energy, how much carbon dioxide it produced, what was needed to increase its EPC rating and to generally keep the property warmer for less.
Our phased approach meant that the benefits of initial improvements could be realised before building on these improvements in the next phase. We provided Ian with a full breakdown of costs and benefits.
To meet the property’s energy needs we identified:
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The property was deemed ‘high risk’ for construction as the renovation would need Listed Building Consent.
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An upgrade to timber frame insulation was necessary to keep the house warmer in winter and reduce overheating in summer.
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The need to install humidity-controlled extractor fans in the bathrooms, and background ventilation in the living room to solve air flow challenges.
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Solar photovoltaic (PV) and solar thermal measures to reduce paid-for energy, and become more self-sufficient in an area prone to power cuts.
We calculated that the finished retrofit would result in:
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A 34% reduction on annual fuel costs.
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44% less carbon dioxide emissions.
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A raised EPC rating of three bands (E to B).
The Outcome
With our advice planning consent was obtained to undertake the full recommended improvements. Energy Lock assisted further by tendering the project, and with contractor selection.
Contractors are now onsite and even at this early stage, the thermal and acoustic benefits of the recommended wood fibre insulation are noticeable.