ONCAOsarieme Isokpan

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

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.”

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

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

Kitchen - First Floor

Front Entrance - Ground Floor

Kitchen - First Floor

Carson - 2nd Floor

Kahlo - Third Floor

Beuys - Third Floor

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/employee2)Generate own electricity with on-site re-newables3)Turn lights and other equipment’s off when unused4) Keep energy policy in every room5)Get smart meters and monitors6)Dedicated recycle bins7)Reusable coffee cups8)Increase recycling to80% by weight9)Reduce waste to 200kg/employee10)Grow vegetables in garden11) Fair trade tea and coffee12) Seasonal Produce13) Replace fish meals with healthy alterna-tives14) Low flow taps15)Water from roof for irrigation.

Targets set up by Bioregional in collaboration with ONCA

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 WindowBlocking Vents Use of energy saving LED Lights

Air Source Heat PumpsTop 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.

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 CaulkPlastic 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

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 regardOsarieme Isokpan

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 HendersonCustomer 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 maintenanceA 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 breatheA 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 abilityOlder 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.

VentilationAnother 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

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 JefferiesSenior Planning Officer (Conservation) Major Projects, Heritage and Design TeamCity Planning & DevelopmentBrighton & 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 4GBThank 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 JefferiesSenior Planning Officer (Conservation) Major Projects, Heritage and Design TeamCity Planning & DevelopmentBrighton & Hove City Council (01273) 29-2222

How to Save Energy in Older HousesThere 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

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 JefferiesSenior Planning Officer (Conservation) Major Projects, Heritage and Design TeamCity Planning & DevelopmentBrighton & 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 4GBThank 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 JefferiesSenior Planning Officer (Conservation) Major Projects, Heritage and Design TeamCity Planning & DevelopmentBrighton & 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.

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 SmithOperations 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 EnteFounder, 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

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 Service0300 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 JonesProgramme Support OfficerInternational & Sustainability TeamCity RegenerationBrighton & Hove City CouncilRoom 430, Kings HouseGrand Avenue, Hove BN3 2LSEmail: sarah.jones@brighton-hove.gov.ukTel: 01273 293833www.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