2. ONCA’s mission is to cultivate environmental and hu-
man health through the arts. They aim in their activity
to inspire creativity and positive action in the face
of environmental change, and to help galvanise the
creation of a critical mass of work that responds to and
explores these changes. Through organising partic-
ipatory events and exhibitions opened up towards
the public, ONCA is able to achieve their main aim of
encouraging creativity in a manner which is unharmful
to our surrounding enviornment.
ONCA is “a wonderfully creative space for exploration and reflection” (Car-
oline Lucas), which “brings together communities … in open-hearted and
mind-altering ways” (Robert Macfarlane).
ONCA
Workshop Activities Gallery Spaces
Creative Performances Outdoor Activities
3. However
As stated earlier, ONCA strives/runs on the basis of conversation
and caring for our physical environment through our activities, but
its building is unable to do so in terms of its energy use. ONCA
is located in a listed Georgian building situated on London Road
Brighton. From looking at their energy bills, it can be seen that
there is waste in terms of this. Monthly, ONCA spends a large sum
on their energy usage.
The average monthly spend of a building of ONCA’s size on energy
bills is estimated at £60-70 a month, whereas ONCA spends nearly
twice at month with an average of £100 per month and even higher
in the colder months. This price despite changing energy provider
has not dropped consinderably
Aim
“My aim here therefore is to suggest was through which ONCA can
improve their energy efficiency. As the building is a listed Georgian
building, great care has to be taken in what construction steps are
utilised in this process. Studies show that Georgian buildings lose 7
times as much heat. This is a common feature to Georgian build as
there are flaws in their system of insulation.”
4. Why?
“Although Georgian buildings are known for their inability to be
efficient in energy use, the loss of energy within the building can
not be as a result of solely this. I have the carried out a survey of the
spaces in order to have an idea of why the building loses so much
energy. “
Cause of Problem
5. Windows
The windows in ONCA are the biggest source of its problem
in terms of energy loss. These windows consist of so many
gaps and holes that result in the constant loss of heat from
the interior. This leads to an increase in the use of heater
both gas and electric within the building. This will inevitable
lead to a rise in their energy bills especially in the colder
months
9. Currently..
What is ONCA currently doing to Reduce their Bills ?
ONCA is wokring with Bioregional in ways through which they can imporve
on their sustainablity. Tis company does ot focus on just sustainability in
terms of energy but also on how to reduce general waste from the building.
They have teamed up with ONCA to create a report that become a manifes-
to thorugh which certain activities are highlighted that can benefit ONCA in
terms of being more earth friendly.
1) Reduce energy consumption to 150KWh/
employee
2)Generate own electricity with on-site re-
newables
3)Turn lights and other equipment’s off when
unused
4) Keep energy policy in every room
5)Get smart meters and monitors
6)Dedicated recycle bins
7)Reusable coffee cups
8)Increase recycling to80% by weight
9)Reduce waste to 200kg/employee
10)Grow vegetables in garden
11) Fair trade tea and coffee
12) Seasonal Produce
13) Replace fish meals with healthy alterna-
tives
14) Low flow taps
15)Water from roof for irrigation.
Targets set up by Bioregional in collaboration with ONCA
10. What?
How can ONCA Reduce their Energy Usage
Research has been carried out in ways by which ONCA can improve their energy ef-
ficiency and reduce waste in the building. The suggestions however will be split into
two. The categories will be based in terms of their simplicity and ability to be imme-
diately ratified or its complexity but long term efficiency. I will be keeping in mind
the financial constraints that the building may have as it is a non-profit organisation.
Replace the Window
Blocking Vents Use of energy saving LED Lights
Air Source Heat Pumps
Top Loft Insulation Solar Panels
Cost Effective Methods
Highly Priced Methods
By replacing the windows in a
Georgian building energy loss
can be reduced. These window
replacements will involve the
installation of double glazed win-
dows which are highly efficient
in conserving energy and prevent
its its loss. Another method is
by blocking vents to prevent an
inflow of cold air which will result
in the need for more heat within
the spaces. The third cost effective
method will be to replace the light
fixtures within the building. By
utilising energy saving LED lights,
a reduction in energy bills will
occur.
These methods of reducing energy
usage in a Georgian building are
more expensive in terms of instal-
lation and also maintenance. They
require professional technicians
in order to operate efficiently The
first method is through insulating
the lofts in the roof space. These
lofts usually have numerous gaps
that allow cold air to pass through
in to the building. By installing
insulation in these spaces, cold air
is prevented from flowing into the
building through the roof.
The second method involves the
use of an air source heat pump
which which transfers heat from
outside to inside a building, or
vice versa.
The third method makes use of
solar panels which covers solar
energy from the emission of sun
rays into electric energy that can
be utilised within the spaces.
11. As stated earlier the windows are the major cause of loss of ener-
gy within the building. Through my own research I have highlight-
ed on two cost effective methods through which an improvement
could be made to its performance. These are not long-term fixes
to the problem but can be easily replaced and will be effective for
shorter periods especially during the colder months. The process
of improving the thermal performance of windows is called weath-
erizing. or weatherproofing. it is defined as the process of
They include
Caulk
Plastic film
1) Caulking is both the processes and material (also
called sealant) to seal joints or seams in various struc-
tures and some types of piping. Additionally, increas-
ing the lifetime of homes and appliances also puts
less waste and pollution into landfills. caulling makes
use of silicon based product that fills between the
gaps in doors and windows preventing the flow of air
into the building whilst sealing warm air in.
2)This is done By placing a layer of clear film over the
windows, holding the film down with tape and using a
hair dryer to create a vacuum between the spaces. This
helps to trap a layer of air between the window and
the film, resulting in extra insulation within the space.
Application of sealants to a window pane
Application of film to a window
12. To whom it may concern,
I am a 2nd year architecture student work-
ing with an art centre situated in London
Road Brighton called ONCA. ONCA’s
main aim is to promote creativity through
environmentally friendly methods. I am
currently trying to find ways by which
ONCA can reduce their carbon footprint
and become more efficient in their ener-
gy usage. ONCA’s main energy inefficien-
cy is derived from the fact that there are
numerous gaps and holes in the building’s
windows, howver as the building is a Geor-
gian building, there are numerous con-
straints in terms of what can be done to it.
I wanted to ask if you could recommend
any cost friendly approach ONCA can uti-
lise in their building that will enable them
to become more efficient in their buildings
performance. Will it be possible to have
someone come round to have a look at the
building in order to recommend the best
possible solution? I look forward to hear-
ing from you
Thank you and best regard
Osarieme Isokpan
13. Dear Osarieme Isokpan,
Thank you for your email of 10th May.
We have information on our website that may help.
This link contains advice on energy efficiency in older
homes: https://www.historicengland.org.uk/advice/your-
home/saving-energy/energy-efficiency/
On this link you can find publications you can download
which go into further detail: https://www.historicengland.
org.uk/advice/technical-advice/energy-efficiency-and-his-
toric-buildings/
If you’d like to speak to us, please contact your local His-
toric England office on 0207 973 3000.
If you have any queries, please let us know on custom-
ers@HistoricEngland.org.uk or 0370 333 0607.
Thank you for contacting us.
Kind regards,
Joya Henderson
Customer Relations Team
Energy Efficiency and Older Houses
Older houses are often thought to be cold and draughty, but they can vary
greatly in their energy efficiency depending on how they are constructed
and maintained. There is growing evidence that many perform better than
assumed, and some outperform modern houses in terms of energy demand
and comfort.
These are the some of the key issues that affect the energy efficiency of older
buildings.
Good maintenance
A well-maintained older home will generally perform much better than one
that is neglected. For example, badly maintained drainage (such as gutters
and downpipes) can lead to damp walls. This increases heat loss through the
wall, making the building much less energy efficient.
Older buildings need to breathe
A key characteristic of older buildings is the widespread use of ‘breathable’ (or
‘permeable’) materials, which are able to absorb moisture and release it again
without damaging the building. By contrast, most modern buildings rely on
materials that keep moisture out.
Maintaining the building’s ability to control moisture levels in this way is fun-
damental to its effective thermal performance. When looking after or making
changes to your home you therefore need to use materials that are compati-
ble with it.
Heat-storing ability
Older masonry houses were often constructed with thick external walls, as
well as internal masonry walls. This type of construction can store warmth as
the building is heated. The heat is then slowly released as the building cools
down. As a result they can maintain a much more even temperature than much
modern lightweight construction.
Ventilation
Another key issue to consider is ventilation. The majority of older buildings are
made of porous materials that both absorb moisture and allow it to escape.
Ventilation stops this moisture building up in any one place and causing dam-
age and problems with condensation and mould.
However, too much ventilation can lead to a draughty and uncomfortable
home. Draughts are particularly common at window and door frames, as well
as at joints between different forms of construction.
Cleaning our gutters are an example of good maintenance
that can be carried out
Ensure that there areno gaps in door frames to prevent
draught
14. Dear Osarieme,
Thank you for your e-mail. Can you please provide the address of
the property that you are referring to.
Kind regards,
Tim Jefferies
Senior Planning Officer (Conservation)
Major Projects, Heritage and Design Team
City Planning & Development
Brighton & Hove City Council
(01273) 29-2222
Dear Tim,
Thank you for your reply. The address of the property is 14 St
Georges Place. Brighton.BN1 4GB
Thank you
Osarieme Isokpan
Sent from my iPhone
Dear Osareime,
This property is a listed building and therefore any works to
improve its energy efficiency must be very carefully considered to
ensure that they would not cause any harm to the historic fabric
and features of the building or to its overall character. Most types
of proposed works to improve energy efficiency are likely to
require an application for Listed Building Consent.
There is some guidance on this subject on our website here, with
links to other sources of information https://www.brighton-hove.
gov.uk/content/planning/heritage/energy-efficiency-histor-
ic-buildings
The council has also adopted some guidance on energy efficien-
cy measures for unlisted historic buildings in conservation area.
Whilst this does not apply to listed buildings some of the advice
on possible measures will still be useful. Please note that it is
still in draft form as it is awaiting final formatting and illustrating.
http://present.brighton-hove.gov.uk/Published/C00000705/
M00005843/AI00049986/$20160301134316_008814_0036581_
DraftPANEnergyEfficiencyConservationAreaPAN09.pdfA.ps.pdf
We cannot visit to advise on possible energy efficiency measures
but if you would like a view on whether any specific measures are
likely to be acceptable in this case please do come back to me.
Kind regards,
Tim Jefferies
Senior Planning Officer (Conservation)
Major Projects, Heritage and Design Team
City Planning & Development
Brighton & Hove City Council
(01273) 29-2222
How to Save Energy in Older Houses
There are a number of practical ways you can save energy and reduce your bills.
Quick fixes
Before you think about improving its energy efficiency, make sure your building
is in good repair. The smallest defects can have a big effect on energy perfor-
mance.
Carry out basic maintenance: A faulty gutter can lead to damp walls, which
will reduce their energy efficiency. Make sure your gutters are clear and drain-
pipes are not cracked. Check that external ground levels adjacent to the build-
ing are not higher than any damp proof course or floor structure.
Stop draughts. Rotting or ill-fitting windows will let in cold draughts. They’re
rarely difficult to repair - many companies specialise in overhauling original sash
windows. Repair is always preferable to replacement, as the windows of a build-
ing are a major part of its historic character. Stopping draughts can improve
comfort and reduce the need for heating, saving energy and money. Even heavy
curtains and simple draught excluders can make a difference. Although most
heat is lost through windows and doors, chimneys and floors can be a source of
draughts as well.
Install attic insulation. Roof insulation at ceiling level is a quick and inexpen-
sive way of improving the energy efficiency of your home. Even if you’ve already
had it installed, it’s worth checking to make sure it’s deep enough and there are
no gaps round the edges.
Upgrade your heating. Modern boilers are much more energy-efficient than
their predecessors of even 10 years ago, using less fuel and producing less CO2
for the same amount of heat. Some condensing boilers convert up to 90% of
the fuel used into heat, as they also capture some of the heat that would other-
wise be lost out of the flue.
Install thermostats. With the use of intelligent thermostats or thermostatic
radiator valves you can control the level of heating in individual rooms, and so
stop heat being wasted on rooms that are not in use.
You could also consider other forms of efficient heating: biomass, for
example, which is renewable organic material such as wood or plant waste. A
wood-burning stove and a boiler can provide both heating and hot water, re-
ducing C02 emissions by up to 90%.
For more ideas go to the Energy Saving Trust’s website, a non-profit organi-
sation that provides information and advice on energy efficiency in the home.
Biomass
Modern Day Boiler TThermostat
15. Dear Osarieme,
Thank you for your e-mail. Can you please provide the address of
the property that you are referring to.
Kind regards,
Tim Jefferies
Senior Planning Officer (Conservation)
Major Projects, Heritage and Design Team
City Planning & Development
Brighton & Hove City Council
(01273) 29-2222
Dear Tim,
Thank you for your reply. The address of the property is 14 St
Georges Place. Brighton.BN1 4GB
Thank you
Osarieme Isokpan
Sent from my iPhone
Dear Osareime,
This property is a listed building and therefore any works to
improve its energy efficiency must be very carefully considered to
ensure that they would not cause any harm to the historic fabric
and features of the building or to its overall character. Most types
of proposed works to improve energy efficiency are likely to
require an application for Listed Building Consent.
There is some guidance on this subject on our website here, with
links to other sources of information https://www.brighton-hove.
gov.uk/content/planning/heritage/energy-efficiency-histor-
ic-buildings
The council has also adopted some guidance on energy efficien-
cy measures for unlisted historic buildings in conservation area.
Whilst this does not apply to listed buildings some of the advice
on possible measures will still be useful. Please note that it is
still in draft form as it is awaiting final formatting and illustrating.
http://present.brighton-hove.gov.uk/Published/C00000705/
M00005843/AI00049986/$20160301134316_008814_0036581_
DraftPANEnergyEfficiencyConservationAreaPAN09.pdfA.ps.pdf
We cannot visit to advise on possible energy efficiency measures
but if you would like a view on whether any specific measures are
likely to be acceptable in this case please do come back to me.
Kind regards,
Tim Jefferies
Senior Planning Officer (Conservation)
Major Projects, Heritage and Design Team
City Planning & Development
Brighton & Hove City Council
(01273) 29-2222
Historical Windows
Windows are a crucial element of historic streetscapes. Their style, proportions
detailing, method of opening and materials denote architectural style, period
and use. Alterations to windows can have a dramatic effect on individual build-
ings, and cumulatively, whole streets and historic areas.
Windows are the architectural feature most at risk of loss and most vulnerable
to alteration and replacement in historic buildings so receive special attention
in this guidance. Draught- proofing and secondary glazing offer ways of re-
ducing heat loss without involving high costs or needing planning permission.
They are included here because they enable historic character to be main-
tained effectively.
How to Save Energy in Older Houses
Assess your home
You need to look at the building as a whole to identify the most suitable im-
provements, taking account of the following:
How energy is being used. The first step is to assess where and how energy is
currently being used in the building,
How efficient are your current appliances?
You could ask a surveyor or architect to carry out a condition survey on your
building.
How well it currently performs.
The location and orientation of your home and its exposure to the elements
are key issues that can affect thermal performance.
Are there draughts, and if so what is causing them? Are there areas where
condensation occurs? Specialist technology can help you get more detailed
information.
Those parts of the building that give it its special character. Understanding
what is significant about the character of an older building is key to improving
its energy efficiency. Speak to your local authority conservation officer if you’re
planning to make changes to a listed building or to a building in a conserva-
tion area.
16. Hello Osarieme,
Thank you for contacting us. I have copied our CEO,
Kayla Ente, into this mail as she knows the ONCA building
and has some suggestions for you. She will be in contact
with her ideas.
With best regards
Diane Smith
Operations Director
Hello Osarieme,
Following on my colleague’s email, I have visited the
ONCA gallery before and have made similar observations
to yours concerning the windows.
These are the solutions that we recommended to them,
at the time I did not put together a proposal as I was not
sure about the Gallery’s lease term, or the appetite of the
landlord to agree to our recommendations.
- we could fit a small solar array on the south facing roof
in the back of the building (I think it is the 2nd floor)
- we could fit secondary glazing on the windows of the
first to the third floor.
- we could fit thermal, transparent glass on the gallery
level of the ground floor http://www.polysolar.co.uk/Tech-
nology/CdTe
Let me know if you believe that the management of
ONCA gallery would like to take this initiative forward.
Best regards,
Kayla
Kayla Ente
Founder, CEO
Secondary Glazing
Secondary Glazing involves adding another slim-line window in addition to your
existing windows. It is a cost effective and efficient method of insulating & sound
proofing your windows. By fitting our Secondary Glazing you could save around
10% on your heating bills. The Energy Saving Trust states that it is an ‘ideal
solution if you are unable to replace your existing windows with double glazing’.
Secondary glazing is perfect for use in Listed Buildings and conservation areas.
Made from strong light weight aluminium, it can be made to be very slim and
discreet. Adding Secondary Glazing to your existing windows is considered a
reversible change. Doing so is recommended by English Heritage and the Listed
Property Owners Club.
Polysolar Glass Windows
Polysolar panels are said to be the future of building integrated matrials.These
panels are posed to replace conventional glass panels by providing excellent
design and build functionality whilst simultaneously producing renewable elec-
tricity. It results in a Power output of up to 85W. It also allows natural light into
building whilst generating electricity even at low external light levels.
Secondary Glazing
Polysolar Glass
17. Dear Osarieme Isokpan,
Thank you for contacting the Energy Saving Advice
Service. We provide impartial advice on a range of en-
ergy saving improvements for domestic properties and
information on how you can save energy and reduce your
fuel bills.
If you wish to have a survey carried out on your building,
then you could consider having a Non-Domestic Energy
Performance Certificate (NDEPC) and a Recommendation
Report (RR). The information provided will help you take
informed decisions on making your building more energy
efficient based on the recommendations listed by the
assessor.
The non-domestic EPC can only be produced by an en-
ergy assessor who is a member of an accredited scheme.
We would advise you to get quotes from several com-
panies before deciding who to use so you know you are
getting the best deal available.
https://www.ndepcregister.com/searchAssessor.html
The Carbon Trust have a free interactive online tool which
can be used to engage staff on energy efficiency to drive
cost savings. http://empower.carbontrust.com/.
You can also join the Carbon Trust’s SME Network, which
is an online community for SMEs to share knowledge and
best practice for reducing carbon emissions and saving
money. http://smenetwork.carbontrust.com/.
Finally, the Carbon Trust also have a range of sector
specific guides on how to save energy, which are free to
download from their website at http://www.carbontrust.
com/resources.
I hope you find this information useful, but if you have
any further questions please do not hesitate to contact us
again.
Kind regards,
Maya
Energy Saving Advice Service
0300 123 1234
Dear Osarieme,
Thank you for your email. Unfortunately there are no
non-profit organisations in the area that are offering
free energy efficiency visits at the moment. Cost friendly
solutions can be searched for on the internet – the Energy
Saving Trust is a good starting point.
Kind regards,
Sarah
Sarah Jones
Programme Support Officer
International & Sustainability Team
City Regeneration
Brighton & Hove City Council
Room 430, Kings House
Grand Avenue, Hove BN3 2LS
Email: sarah.jones@brighton-hove.gov.uk
Tel: 01273 293833
www.brighton-hove.gov.uk
From these emails these two companies were referenced. The
Carbon Trust for instance has numerous forms and accessemenrs
which can be filled by the organisation to enable them have a
more detailed understanding of their carbon footprint. The links
have been forwarded to ONCA as I had no acesses to a majority
of the information required
The energy saving trust on the the hand is a company I had earlier
contacted. This com[any provided me with some of the informa-
tion above
