Energy efficiency schemes challenged by materials testing specialists

11 Sep 2015

Lucideon has published a guidance document confronting the government’s current energy efficiency schemes and explaining how to achieve comfortable conditions in buildings.

New building regulations stress the importance of energy efficiency in homes, putting pressure on the construction sector to meet certain energy usage and CO₂ emissions requirements.

The government has implemented a number of schemes to ensure that these specifications are met. However, these programmes have experienced issues with scope, take-up and proper execution, leading many companies to question their effectiveness.

‘Creating Comfortable Conditions in Buildings’

In its latest document, Lucideon discusses the current incentives for energy efficient housing and draws on their flaws.

Created by the company’s Director and Principal Construction Consultant, Dr. Geoff Edgell, the guide explains the need for new methods of tackling inefficiency. It highlights the example of new builds, refurbishments and dwellings that reject the use of traditional construction materials and, therefore, require a new approach.

It also focuses on the potential of a ‘whole-house’ comfort rating to aid the efficiency of homes, whilst examining the regulations that measure a house’s overall functionality.

Materials testing expertise

Lucideon carries out testing and analysis services across its construction laboratories, which have been built to accommodate structural, environmental and wind-load testing.

In addition, the company provides consultancy solutions to the construction industry.