Resource Efficiency in Leisure Centres and Sports Facilities … · 2015-08-26 · fifteen leisure centre sites across Scotland. These sites included combined wet / dry facilities,

Resource Efficiency in Leisure Centres and Sports Facilities

Guidance Document

Guidance Document | 2

Contents

1 Introduction 3

1.1 Background 3

1.2 Scope of this guidance document 3

2 Summary of data benchmarking results 4

2.1 Energy benchmarking performance 4

2.2 Energy and water consumption profiling 6

3 Summary of common utility data issues 8

3.1 Energy 8

3.2 Water 8

3.3 Waste 9

4 Assessment of site ‘operation and management’ 10

5 Summary of typical ‘resource improvements’ 11

5.1 Overview of key resource efficiency measures by category 11

6 Overview of key identified improvement measures 13

6.1 Energy awareness 13

6.2 Heating and ventilation 14

6.3 Lighting 18

6.4 Direct Pool 19

6.5 Other equipment 21

6.6 Renewables - solar photovoltaic (PV) 23

6.7 Water management 24

6.8 Waste minimisation/management 28

7 Key regulatory requirements impacting on leisure centres in Scotland 29

8 Strategic implementation guidance 30

9 For more information 31

Appendix 1: Template for an ‘on-site audit’ checklist 32

Appendix 2: Resource management performance matrices 34

Appendix 3: Benchmarking guidance for leisure centres 37


1 Introduction

1.1 Background

There is considerable scope for reducing resource use, carbon emissions and therefore

running costs from Scottish Public Sector leisure centres and sports centres. Energy, water

and waste costs can account for over 30% of the running costs of a facility and there are

many opportunities for reducing these costs. Many of the improvement opportunities

available to leisure centres are no cost or low cost with a short term payback. For example

a 10% saving in resource costs of all currently operating facilities in Scotland could result in

a £7 million annual saving.

This guidance document has been developed by Zero Waste Scotland’s Resource Efficient

Scotland programme to enable leisure centre staff to make environmental and cost savings

by the inclusion of small, simple changes as well as larger investments. This guidance

document also aims to advise managers and individuals on how to take responsibility for

their own resource consumption by empowering them to make informed decisions on

managing resource use.

Zero Waste Scotland is funded by the Scottish Government to support the delivery of its

Zero Waste Plan and other low carbon policy priorities. Through the Resource Efficient

Scotland programme, businesses and organisations across the private, public and third

sectors in Scotland are advised and supported to use resources, including energy, water and raw materials more efficiently.

1.2 Scope of this guidance document

This guidance document is based around issues and opportunities identified during resource

efficiency audits covering energy, water and waste carried out as a representative sample of

fifteen leisure centre sites across Scotland. These sites included combined wet / dry

facilities, dry only facilities, ice rinks and pool only facilities.

It also provides guidance to leisure centres on assessing how their facilities are performing

in relation to available benchmarks and examines how resources are used in the facilities.

This guidance document also considers typical utility type data management challenges

within this sector.

Both technical and strategic options for reducing resource use are proposed along with

guidance on how these can be implemented. This is supplemented by information on the

key legislative drivers that influence resource use in leisure centres and sports facilities.

Finally, guidance is provided on availability of advice and funding to support implementation

of the cost saving measures highlighted throughout this document.


2 Summary of data benchmarking results

2.1 Energy benchmarking performance

Prior to commencing an energy audit programme at a leisure facility, it will be beneficial to

determine how well the centre is performing against national energy performance standards

by undertaking an energy benchmarking exercise.

Energy performance indicators give a measure of activity based energy use, which can be

compared with equivalent sector benchmarks. Energy consumption benchmarks are

published in Good Practice Guides for different buildings and some processes. In the case of

leisure centres, sector comparative energy benchmarks are available from the Chartered

Institute of Building Services Engineers (CIBSE) Guide F

(http://www.cibse.org/knowledge/cibse-guide/cibse-guide-f-energy-efficiency-in-buildings).

Guide F presents ‘typical’ and ‘good practice’ values for different types of buildings (e.g.

leisure pool, dry sports centre, ice rink) as a ‘specific energy ratio’ being kWh per floor area

in square meters (kWh/m2).

CIBSE Guide F benchmarks value for various types of leisure centre are shown in Table 2.1

below. The values have not been adjusted and are based on data from 2001.

Table 2.1 CIBSE Benchmark Values (kWh/m2)

Typical Good Practice

Heating Electricity Heating Electricity

combined centre 598 152 264 96

dry sports centre

(local)

343 105 158 64

fitness centre 449 194 201 127

ice rink 217 255 100 167

leisure pool centre 1321 258 573 164

sports ground

changing facility

216 164 141 93

swimming pool (25m)

centre

1336 237 573 152

Table 2.1 and Graph 2.2 below show the % of number of “typical” leisure centre sites which

fall into each performance category for electricity and heating fossil fuel consumption. These

findings have been based on the afore mentioned Resource Efficient Scotland leisure centre

audit programme where 15 sites in 6 Local Authorities were short listed and surveyed in

2015.

http://www.cibse.org/knowledge/cibse-guide/cibse-guide-f-energy-efficiency-in-buildings


Graph 2.1 Electricity benchmark performance

Graph 2.2 Heating fuel enchmark performance

The above performance graphs clearly demonstrate that the findings from this

representative sample suggest that there is significant potential to improve energy

performance across Scotland’s leisure centre sector.

Further information regarding ‘benchmarking guidance’ for leisure centres is provided in

Appendix 3.

0%

33%

67%

Electricity benchmark performance

Better than GoodPractice

Between Typical& Good Practice

Worse thanTypical

13%

67%

20%

Heating fuel benchmark performance

Better than GoodPractice

Between Typical& Good Practice

Worse thanTypical


2.2 Energy and water consumption profiling

Either prior to or during a utility based resource audit, it is important to have some

understanding as to how resources are being consumed. The following energy and water

profiling piecharts (Graphs 2.3, 2.4 and 2.5) represent estimated energy/water consumption

spilt for typical ‘dry & wet’ leisure centre sites as summarised from the findings of the

representative sample of fifteen leisure centre sites audited across Scotland.

Graph 2.3 Typical CO2 Breakdown for 'Dry & Wet' leisure centre

Graph 2.4 and Graph 2.5 below present a more detailed breakdown of electricity and gas

usage for typical ‘dry and wet’ leisure centre facilities as summarised from the findings of

the representative sample of fifteen leisure centre sites audited across Scotland.

Graph 2.4 Typical Electricity CO2 Break down for 'Dry and Wet' Leisure Centre

57.3%

41.4%

0.4% 0.9%

Typical CO2 breakdown for 'dry & wet' leisure centre

Electricity

Gas

Water

Waste Water

23%

2%

36%

5%

4%

19%

5%

6%

Typical electricity CO2 breakdown

Lighting

Fitness Equipment

Ventilation

A/C

Sauna/Steam

Pool Pumps

Auxiliary Pumps

Other Electrical


Graph 2.5 Typical gas CO2 Breakdown for 'Dry and Wet' leisure centre

The above graphs provide a useful indication as to what areas typically need to be focused

on when trying to reduce resource consumption in ‘dry and wet’ leisure centres being

primarily lighting, ventilation systems, pool & pool auxiliaries and domestic hot water

systems. These breakdowns have been summarised from the findings of the representative

sample of fifteen leisure centre sites audited across Scotland. The short list was derived

from analysis of energy and water data for a total of 57 sites that were nominated by their

respective Local Authorities Energy Manager. The analysis consisted of comparing

performance against recognised professional benchmarks with the worst performers and

high consumers taking a priority.

30%

3% 17% 20%

10%

15% 5%

Typical gas CO2 breakdown

Pool Hall Ventilation

Backwashing

Domestic Hot WaterHeating

Swimming Pool WaterHeating

General Heating

Dry Ventilation

Miscellaneous


3 Summary of common utility data issues

The following represents some of the common types of data related issues across typical

leisure centres.

3.1 Energy

Some of the ‘energy’ data issues identified at typical ‘trust or local authority’ managed

leisure centres included the following:

It was identified that generally councils collect meter reads from public leisure

centres in Scotland and data is then managed and reported externally to the leisure

centre from Council central energy units.

Energy performance trends are generally not effectively communicated back to the

leisure centre for further investigation.

Similarly, a number of sites have automatic meter reading (AMR) but this is often

only accessed by the Council and therefore little use is made of the data to

investigate potential savings. It is also anticipated that even where sites have AMR

installed that data services will be patchy from the utility supplier particularly where

gas AMR is installed.

There is little evidence that efforts are being made to correlate gas AMR Half Hourly

Data with building management systems (BMS) settings at either site or central

management level.

A lack of site sub-metering was evident, for instance no examples of sub-metering of

domestic hot water and heating gas supplies were identified during the audit

programme.

Improvement suggestions

Agree an effective reporting process between leisure centre management and council

central energy staff.

Determine how energy data will be analysed, how often and by whom.

Provide training to appropriate leisure centre staff in existing or new ‘utility’ data

management software systems and where possible provide remote ‘logon’ access.

Determine who will be responsible for the identification of and rectification of energy

trend abnormalities which may be due to a combination of poor energy management

practices, poor system efficiencies or equipment defects.

3.2 Water

Some of the ‘water’ data issues identified at typical ‘trust or local authority’ leisure centres

included the following:

It was identified that water data is generally managed in a similar way to energy

data with the Council collecting meter reads and then managing the data.

A lack of consumption data trend feedback to the leisure centre management.

At many sites it was not possible to access the water meters due to problems getting

into areas where the water meters are located for example underground, or in some

cases the site personnel not being aware of where the water meter is.

Some water meters are connected to AMR devices but many others rely on monthly

or weekly manual reads being emailed to the Council energy units.

Improvement suggestions

Agree an effective reporting process between leisure centre management and

relevant colleagues.

Determine how water data will be analysed, how often and by whom.


Provide training to appropriate leisure centre staff in existing or new ‘utility’ data

management software systems and where possible provide remote ‘logon’ access.

Determine who will be responsible for the identification of and rectification of water

energy trend abnormalities which may be due to a combination of poor water

management practices or on site water leakage.

3.3 Waste

Some of the ‘waste’ data issues identified at typical ‘trust or local authority’ leisure centres

included the following:

Waste data is generally very incomplete across this sector at present. Other than

some details of collection regimes (i.e. number and volume of bins uplifted regularly)

there was generally no information on the actual volume or weight of waste collected

for each waste stream. There is therefore minimal waste volume information

available to enable leisure centre management decisions on waste initiatives or the

ability to set waste reduction targets in accordance with current legislation, see

section 7 of this document for more information.

Improvement Suggestions

Further information on how to improve the recording of waste data can be accessed

on the Resource Efficient Scotland website www.resourceefficientscotland.com

http://www.resourceefficientscotland.com/content/key-task/measure-monitor-waste-water-use

http://www.resourceefficientscotland.com/


4 Assessment of site ‘operation and management’

On-site review of operational and management aspects and performance can help to

improve resource efficiency and save costs. This can take the form of an on-site resource

efficiency review and site walk-round.

A typical set of ‘performance’ matrices for energy, water and waste are provided in

Appendix 2. These are designed to clearly illustrate how a site is performing against some

key resource operational management aspects. In reality such matrices only represent a

snapshot of the current performance situation, however they can be used to monitor

performance changes during a regular review process or when improvement actions have

been undertaken.

Users of this guide are encouraged to determine their own on-site resource management

performance by utilising the matrices set out in Appendix 2. At the same time try to explain

and write down why present performance is as it is, and use this as a baseline to compare

against future performance improvement actions during regular performance reviews.


5 Summary of typical ‘resource improvements’

5.1 Overview of key resource efficiency measures by category

Graph 5.1 and Graph 5.2 below summarise typical areas where CO2 savings can be made in

‘dry & wet’ leisure centre buildings. The graphs depict the split by CO2 savings and typical

‘pay back’ periods for the different types or category of ‘improvement measure’ across the

leisure centre sector. These breakdowns have been summarised from the findings of the

representative sample of fifteen leisure centre sites audited across Scotland.

Graph 5.1 % total CO2 savings by recommendation

Graph 5.2 shows how total savings are typically split by ‘payback period’ relative to the

overall percentage of CO2 savings. It should be noted that ‘no cost’ represents an immediate

payback, ‘short’ is less than 3 years and ‘long’ is more than 3 years.

Graph 5.2 % total CO2 savings by payback


Table 5.1 Graph 5.1summarises typical ‘improvement measure’ categories by overall

‘average payback’ from shortest to longest and also demonstrates the % CO2 savings which

would typically be expected to be achieved for each ‘improvement measure’ category.

Table 5.1 Recommendation Category in order of ‘Payback Period’

Improvement

Category

Payback (yrs) Payback

Category

% tCO2e savings

Awareness 0 to 1 No Cost 0 to 10%

Water management 1 to 3 Short 0 to 2%

Cooling & ventilation 1 to 3 Short 5 to 15%

Other equipment 1 to 2 Short 5 to 15%

Heating & ventilation 2 to 3 Short 20 to 40%

Pool specific 2 to 4 Long 20 to 30%

Waste management 3 to 5 Long 0 to 2%

Lighting 3 to 10 Long 10 to 20%

Photo voltaic 8+ Long 2 to 5%


Good housekeeping campaigns can

produce energy savings of up to

10% of total consumption even

though 3 to 5% is more realistic.

6 Overview of key identified improvement measures

6.1 Energy awareness

How can it help leisure centres improve resource management and save money?

Senior management commitment is

required.

The success of awareness campaigns

depends on engaging the majority of staff,

and ensuring that a campaign does not

lapse into inactivity.

Performance data and targeting is the key to a successful on-going campaign.

Areas which would benefit from a ‘good housekeeping’ campaign specifically are

kitchen/café area, office areas, lighting throughout and HVAC controls.

Potential barriers to be aware of

A successful campaign requires considerable amount of management time.

Often campaigns become ‘tired’ and require rejuvenation.

Without tangible demonstration of results, a campaign will lose momentum.

How to take it further

Ensure senior commitment.

Appoint an energy type champion and form an energy management committee.

Analyse energy consumption data to its full capacity including benchmarking to

identify and investigate poor energy performance.

The onsite audit checklist in Appendix 1 can be used to carryout site reviews.

Develop appropriate targeted energy awareness training for staff.

Maximum use should be made of the free stickers and posters available from Zero

Waste Scotland (www.resourceefficientscotland.com/search/poster).

Energy management initiatives should be publicised, and energy awareness training

for new staff included in their induction.

Review performance improvements against baselines and targets

Visit the www.resourceefficientscotland.com website to take advantage of the latest

support including training, tools, templates and case studies to take action to

improve resource efficiency.

http://www.resourceefficientscotland.com/search/poster



Leisure Centre “booking” systems

can be used to control heating,

ventilation, cooling and lighting

schedules.

1°C air temperature reduction can

reduce associated consumption by

up to 8%, however pool hall

temperatures must remain circa 1°C

above water temperature to limit

evaporation heat loss.

Always try to set up temperature

dead bands to ensure heating and

cooling are not operating at the

same time in the same room space.

6.2 Heating and ventilation

6.2.1 Controls

How it can help leisure centres improve

resource management and save money

Check all time schedules match

requirements (e.g. operating hours in different zones) and check time and date/day

are correct.

Ensure equipment controls are set to ‘automatic’ instead of ’hand’ or ‘local’ to ensure

equipment is not running continuously.

Include advanced controls (weather compensation, optimum start/stop, BMS etc.)

where appropriate.

Suggested temperature settings – refer to table 6.1 below:

Table 6.1 Suggested temperature settings for controls

Space Temp (°C)

Normal/Diving pool water 28

Leisure/Teaching pool water 29

Training/Competition pool water 25-27

Pool hall 1°C above pool water temp

Multi-purpose 12-18 for sports, 18-21 for sedentary

Weight training 12-14

Fitness centre 16-18

Squash courts 16-18

Changing areas 20 (dry)-25(wet)

Reception, offices and circulation 18-20


VSDs are often installed but

set to fixed speeds so it’s

important to install new VSDs

or include existing VSDs as

part of a closed loop control

scheme to optimise savings.

Fan power has a ‘cube law’ relationship with

flow, which means that the associated energy

reduction is to the power of three compared

with the base speed reduction. Therefore, a

20% speed or flow reduction results in a circa

50% power saving and often heating savings

are also achieved.


Staff may not have direct access or training to change control settings.

BMS may not have a maintenance contract.

There are risks associated with achieving a balance between fabric protection from

excess condensation, and a balanced temperature between pool water and the pool

hall air.

Staff may not have the time to regularly review (at least monthly) control settings.


There is good opportunity for control improvement in most public access buildings.

Training is key, approach Council experts, or control contractors for training support.

Keep a “change log” to record all parameter changes and reasons why they occurred.

6.2.2 Variable Speed Drives (VSD) for pool ventilation systems

How it can help leisure centres improve resource management and save money

Where Air Handling Units (AHU) fans

motors are fixed speed it is highly likely

that Variable Speed Drives (VSDs) could be

installed to reduce energy consumption.

AHU fan speeds can be based on a variety

of inputs including demand sensing, time

scheduling and differential pressure

sensing.

Controls should also be automated relative

to pool hall humidity levels within the range

of 50% to 70% relative humidity (RH) and

it is particularly important to optimise savings when pool covers are used. This type

of control is known as a closed loop control scheme.


Variable speed drives may produce electromagnetic interference that can affect the

operation of electronic equipment, but appropriately CE marked and installed devices

should comply all relevant legislative requirements.

Some older motors may not be suitable for VSDs and therefore the cost of a new

motor will need to be factored in.

Cooling effectiveness of motors may reduce at low speed therefore minimum speed

thresholds may have to be set.


A properly controlled closed loop scheme which can ramp down AHU fans overnight

and at other suitable times should be replicable across many buildings with

swimming pools.

You will probably need to engage the services of a controls expert as well as VSD

provider / installer. The selection of a contractor that can manage all aspects of such

projects is the key to optimisation and success.


If a boiler is more than 15 to 20 years

old, or if it is showing signs inefficient

operation, it should be considered for

replacement, normally providing an

investment payback period of less

than 5 years.

Typical seasonal efficiency for a

standard low temperature hot water

boiler in good condition is around 70%

whereas it is estimated that the

condensing boilers could operate with

an efficiency of up to 90%.

6.2.3 Boiler replacement

How it can help leisure centres improve resource

management and save money

Boilers should be replaced with condensing gas-fired

boilers even where flow and return temperature

differential does not regularly achieve condensing

conditions¹.

It should be noted that a number of manufacturers offer

condensing boilers with a separate condensing water

return.

It is recommended that new boiler controls (sequencing,

anti-cycling etc.) are also installed at time of boiler

replacement. These can have additional savings of

between 5 and 15%.

¹ Typical condensing boiler efficiencies will drop if the boiler is unable to operate in

condensing mode. This normally occurs when the design and/or implementation of the

heating system gives return water temperatures at the boiler of over 55°C, which prevents

significant condensation in the boiler heat exchanger. Many boilers are installed with higher

flow temperature by default because a domestic hot water cylinder is generally heated to

60°C, however even partial condensing is more efficient than a traditional boiler. The

requirement for lower return temperatures means that low temperature applications such

underfloor heating or even old cast iron radiators are a good match for condensing boiler

technology. It is also beneficial if domestic hot water calorifiers can be removed from the buildings low temperature hot water system.


Disruption to services during boiler replacement and cost are major barriers. It may

be possible to mitigate disruption by planning works during the none heating season

(summer months) especially if domestic hot water demand can also be mitigated

during this period or through hire of a temporary boiler if this is not possible.

Boiler replacement risk is mitigated if detailed design and sizing is carried out by a

suitably qualified engineer or consultant.


A number of boilers audited in the leisure centres were in excess of 20 years old.

However they may still have useful life with regular combustion checks and

specifically burner maintenance.

A boiler expert will be able to undertake full and part load testing to determine

existing boiler combustion and seasonal efficiencies.


In leisure centres where water saving

measures have been implemented,

calorifiers may be oversized causing

higher standing losses than

necessary.

Un-insulated valves and flanges are

equivalent to a 1m and ½m

respectively of uninsulated pipe!

Paybacks for insulating pipework are

typically within a year and two

years for valves.

6.2.4 Water storage heater (calorifier) improvement

How it can help leisure centres improve resource

management and save money

Domestic hot water (DHW) at leisure centres is

typically generated by the gas-fired boilers through

calorifiers.

The insulation on aging calorifiers may not be up to

current standards and may well have higher standing

losses leading to poorer efficiencies of around 60%.

A more efficient DHW arrangement is an insulated

plate heat exchanger (PHE) and as required an

appropriately sized, well insulated buffer vessel.

Depending on the end-use, PHEs usually have

efficiencies of around 90%.

Where a PHE arrangement is not suitable due to

current boiler sizing, direct gas fired water heaters

could be installed.


Not all buildings are suited to PHEs as this depends on DHW rate of demand change

and which will also determine if a buffer vessel is required.

If direct fired water heaters are to be installed then the gas supply capacity will have

to be checked.

How to take if further

Calorifier make up water metering can help to determine DHW demand and rate of

change of DHW flow.

Engage with a metering expert to determine other ways to monitor DHW use, this

will help to inform an investment decision regarding change-out of calorifiers.

Undertake a professional analysis of DHW consumption to identify if a PHE, direct

water heater or a new high efficiency calorifier should be installed to replace the

existing system.

6.2.5 Heating pipe insulation


Properly insulated pipework, valves,

flanges, inspection plates and PHEs can

eliminate almost all heat loss.

Flexible muffs fastened with Velcro should

be used for any items requiring regular

inspection or use.

Reduced heat gains from pipes can also

reduce cooling demand in cooled zones.


Typically LED lighting has a life time

of around 70,000 hours which is

approximately 4 to 8 times

compared with traditional

fluorescent or high intensity

discharge (HID) luminaires.

Savings depend on usage hours but

for high use areas, paybacks of 3 to

6 years are achievable.


These actions should be considered as formalising good maintenance practice.

Valve covers are frequently removed during maintenance works and not replaced.

Staff and contractors should be instructed to ensure that covers are maintained and

utilised at all times.

Uninsulated pipework is a safety risk, especially at higher operating temperatures.

Any external pipework requires both weather proof and rodent proof insulation.


There is typically at least some potential for pipework insulation improvement

especially in plant rooms in older buildings.

Undertake a detailed survey of existing pipe insulation; use an Infra-Red gun for a

record to support investment.

Train / inform on site staff and contractors about replacing insulation after

maintenance work.

6.3 Lighting



Light Emitting Diode (LED) lighting

technology has now advanced to cover

almost the complete range of indoor and

external lighting requirements.

LED replacements can either entail

swapping out complete luminaires or by

retrofitting lamps in existing luminaires by

the use of LED tubes or corn lamps.

LED emitters now have a wide colour

range and are available in an extensive

range of sizes and shapes.


There is still considerable variation in the

quality, efficiency and life of some

cheaper LED lamps.

It may be necessary to re-wire existing

luminaires when retrofitting which may

increase installation costs, although it

may be as simple as replacing existing

electromagnetic starters.

When replacing low voltage halogen spot

lights e.g. in reception areas, it may be necessary to also change the supply

transformer or convert the luminaires to mains voltage.

LED’s have high glare which may cause problems in pools for swimmers and for

lifeguards. Some leisure centres pools have addressed this by angling LED luminaires

to the ceiling and using reflective panels to diffuse the light.

How to take if further

LED technologies can now be used universally albeit the technology is still expensive

and as with other lighting replacements can create disruption.

It’s sensible to consult with light design / project management companies to

determine the optimal lighting design; they will help to develop a specification.


Power for pumps has a cube law

relationship with flow. Therefore a

20% flow reduction results in a circa

50% pump power saving and often

heating savings are also achieved.

Savings are likely to be most

apparent during out-of-hours

periods, when pool covers are in use

and there is much lower evaporative

heat loss from the water to air.

Consider performance targets, such as minimum luminance levels and kWh/m2

targets.

Obtain multiple quotations from suppliers / contractors.

6.4 Direct Pool

6.4.1 Variable Speed Control of pool circulation pumps


Pool circulating pumps are often fixed

speed which means that they operate at

full speed continuously.

Variable speed drives (VSDs) allow

flexibility to control pool flow rates based

on control parameters including activity

schedules and/or closed loop controls

which measure pool temperature, air

temperature and humidity.

Generally pool circulation pumps which

have existing VSDs installed are not

necessarily controlled in an optimal way

therefore existing VSD systems should also be assessed.


Some older motors may not be suitable for VSDs and therefore the cost of a new

motor may need to be factored in.

Cooling effectiveness of motors may reduce at low speed therefore minimum speeds

may have to be set.

The effect of variable flow on pool temperature, air temperature, humidity in the pool

hall and filter condition will have to be continuously monitored.

Adjusting the pool pumping rate will have a knock-on effect on the swimming pool

filtration, dosing and backwash rates.

Where there is a duty / standby pump arrangement, provision should be made to

install VSD’s on all pumps which will increase the overall payback period.


Pool VSDs and a properly controlled closed loop scheme which can ramp down

pumps overnight or at other appropriate times should be replicable across many

leisure centres with swimming pools.

Engage the services of a controls expert as well as VSD provider / installer. The

selection of a contractor that can manage all aspects of such projects is a key factor

to optimisation and success.

System operational monitoring regarding consumption versus environmental

conditions is vital to optimise savings and retain comfort levels and protect the

building fabric.


Pool covers offer excellent savings

in energy as they reduce the

evaporative heat loss which occurs

on the surface of the pool water.

6.4.2 Pool covers


Pool covers which are on wall-mounted

rollers can be easily rolled on and off the

pool.

When the pool cover is on the pool this will

then have a knock-on effect on the pool

pumping requirements and the ventilation

requirements for the pool hall as these can both be reduced with the appropriate

close loop controls.


There will be some disruption to the pool use whilst new pool covers are installed.

Swimming pool covers can become waterlogged if they are poorly maintained and

remain on the surface of the water too long which will make them harder to roll out.

Pool covers should be cleaned at regular intervals to prevent the build-up of bacteria.


If it is not possible to install a fabric pool cover then a liquid pool cover can be

applied – but this is not as effective as a fabric pool cover, but can help to reduce

evaporative losses even when the pool is still being used.

Request quotations for replacement pool covers with a roller mechanism. Wall

mounted pool covers which can be rolled out from a slightly higher location will make

the process of managing the covers much simpler. Motorised units could also be

procured but these are more expensive and more appropriate for larger pool areas.


Newer designed high velocity hand dryers

which require hands to be placed inside the

device are also less sensitive to adjacent

movement so they should not be

inadvertently activated.

All electrical hand dryers

contribute to reduced

paper waste by minimising

the need for paper towels.

6.5 Other equipment

6.5.1 Replacing hand dryers


Conventional warm air low speed hand

dryers are present in many leisure

centres and could be replaced with high

efficiency high velocity hand dryers.

Conventional hand dryers only blow

enough airflow to remove a small

fraction of the water from hands while

slowly evaporating the rest. This can

take up to 40 seconds to dry hands.

High velocity hand dryers effectively

“blow” water from the hands resulting in

up to a 75% time reduction.

The reduction in drying time and absence of a higher power heating element results

in 70 to 80% less energy being used by high velocity hand dryers compared to

conventional hand dryers.


Cost can be a major barrier as replacement hand dryer costs are circa £500 each,

dependent on the specification.


Most public accessible buildings including leisure centres which have high sink usage

will enjoy resource savings from the installation of efficient fast acting electrical hand

dryers.

Prioritise hand dryer replacement by frequency of use, condition and location relative

to inadvertent operation.

It’s likely that in house maintenance staff can undertake the replacement work.

6.5.2 Timers for vending machines



Timer plugs can be plugged into any

conventional socket to control the power to

a device.

A timer plug is a relatively cheap device

(£20-40 depending on the number of built

in pre-settings).


Installed timer plugs will reduce

the operational hours of the

vending machines, turning the

machine ‘off’ for a set period

overnight.

Most leisure centres have vending machines

which are usually plugged in and energized

24/7.

A vending machine will typically consume

between 4 – 10 kWh per day, depending on

the size of the unit, and have a rated power

usually between 300-500W.

Compressors in the units continually modulate between ‘on’ and ‘off’ to maintain a

set temperature.

Drinks machines and other vending machines often contain non-perishable goods

that do not require continuous refrigeration.


This is an easy to implement action which is low cost and does not require a skilled

person to install.

The site will need to monitor the timer settings to ensure products remain at a

satisfactory temperature and that there is no accelerated perishing of goods.

This approach may not be suitable for all vending machines and the leisure centre

manager should consult with their vending machine supplier who may also be the

owner of the contents.

Timers are only as effective as the people that use them. Be sure to check timers

routinely to ensure that they set correctly.


Most leisure centre buildings have a vending machine area with the machines usually

remaining ‘on’ 24/7, so there is high replication potential.

Determine how many time pre-sets per 24 hour period and day of the week and

procure a timer and trial.

Remember to consult with vendor suppliers and monitor cabinet internal

temperature, tiny tag temperature monitors or similar can be placed inside and will

log temperatures over a period of time.


Did you know that FIT’s typically

reduce paybacks by around 50% to

less than 15 years?

FIT’s are much lower if your building

has an EPC rating of “E” or above.

6.6 Renewables - solar photovoltaic (PV)


Solar photovoltaic (PV) is a renewable

electricity generating technology.

PV is supported by the UK’s Feed in Tariff

(FIT) incentive.

Users that do not use electricity on-site

receive a further export payment, but it may be better to simply replace on-site grid

electricity use with renewable electricity which should be cheaper.

South facing roofs are most suited especially if they are pitched between 20-35° but

can also be mounted on special structures or cradles on flat roofs.

The potential for PV roof arrays is also determined by “shading” from surrounding

buildings and trees, available roof space and on site electrical connection points.


Capital costs and paybacks can be quite high for PV projects.

Government subsidies are temporary and FIT tariffs have fallen over time. For

example for a 4-10kWp system, the following comparative FIT tariffs have been

applied in 2012 and 2015 respectively;

o 2012 37.8p/kWh generated

o 2015 12.6/kWh generated

If your building does not meet an Energy

Performance Certificate (EPC) rating of E

or above, then the FIT tariff drops to

6.38p/kWh (regardless of installation size).

Roof structure needs to be assessed for suitability, don’t forget about wind and snow

loadings.

If there is a long distance between the PV system and electrical connection point

then cost and losses will increase.


Leisure centre buildings typically have good roof space and good day time electrical

demand – is your leisure centre suitable for PV? - You may require help to determine

this.

An independent feasibility study is therefore recommended to determine suitability

and develop a business case.

An independent specialist can also advise on contractual / commercial options.


Did you know that pool filter

backwash frequency should be

based on the pressure drop across

the filters and not simply a typical

weekly or bi-weekly programme.

A properly monitored reactive back

wash programme is a low or zero

cost measure but backwash water

savings of over 20% could be

possible.

6.7 Water management

6.7.1 Back wash regime


In order to reduce water and heating

consumption backwash frequency should be

optimised.

Backwashing is used to clean debris from

the pool filters that builds up over time.

Backwash frequency is dependent on a

number of factors (plant size, water quality,

etc.) but the main driving factor is bather

numbers.


Water management policies may have to be rewritten.

Who will provide the correct level of permission to allow reactive backwashing to

restart?


Prescriptive (typically weekly or bi-weekly) programmes were found at the majority

of leisure centres as a matter of routine.

How do you presently monitor filter condition, can this be improved?

Consult with your pool maintenance contractor or in-house expert to determine a

filter management regime / monitoring system.

6.7.2 Cistern volume reduction


Cisterns installed post-2001 have a maximum of 6

litres therefore no action should be necessary.

Reducing the cistern volume can be achieved in a

number of ways:

o Installing new cisterns with smaller volumes

and dual flush.

o By converting the cistern to dual flush (6/3

litre flushes).

o Or by retro fitting cistern volume reducers

(hippo bay, save-a-flush etc.).

The simplest and cheapest way to reduce flush

volume is by retro fitting cistern volume reducers.

These generally consist of a device located in the

cistern to displace some of the water volume.


Did you know that most cisterns produced prior

to 2001 will be 9 or 12 litres in volume and

cisterns with volumes over 6 litres could have

their volume reduced without any concerns to

operation.

Paybacks are typically

well under a year for

cistern volume

reduction measures.

Typical tap flow rates exceed 6 litres

per minute, best practice would be

to use 4 litres per minute giving

savings of over 30% or up to

approximately £1,000 per year in a

typical leisure centre.

Typical shower flow rates exceed 10

litres per minute, best practice flow

rate is 6 litres per minute thereby

giving potential savings of over 40%

or up to approximately £1,500 per

year in a typical leisure centre.


All cisterns modified need to be checked to ensure that there is sufficient flush

pressure.

Older toilets may only be suitable for a reduction to 9 litres.

Reduced flush toilets may not be recommended for older properties.


There is high potential for this measure in a leisure centre built prior to 2001.

Check existing cisterns, and record findings.

6.7.3 Low flow shower and tap fittings


Taps and shower can often be left ‘on’ in areas used

by the public so fitting percussion or infra-red tap

controls reduces wastage.

Tap and shower aerators can be retrofitted to taps to

maintain pressure while reducing water use through

displacement of water with air.

In-line flow restrictors can be used on taps and

showers to reduce flow to multiple fittings.

Low flow fitting not only save on water cost but also

on hot water heating cost.


Compatibility with existing shower fitting will need to be checked and user suitability

will need to be tested.

Flow volume should not be reduced in areas that require large amounts of water

such as kitchens and cleaning cupboards.

Installation of flow restrictors may require water isolation.


There is high potential for flow reduction measures across the leisure centre sector.

Percussion taps and shower are more common practice and therefore replication

potential is much lower so make an inventory of existing tap types.

An experienced plumber should be able to determine the most appropriate tap

solution and provide a proposal.


Water usage can be up to 860 litres

per cistern per day (9 litres flush)

which could equate to up to

approximately £900 per year.

Urinal water savings of up to 70%

can be realised by occupancy

controls, for a typical mid-size

leisure centre, this could save up to

approximately £1,500 per year.

Did you know that savings can be

made by reducing the size of leisure

centre water meters? (refer to table

6.3 below)

6.7.4 Control of urinals


The frequency of urinal flushing depends on how water is controlled into the cistern

and they will regularly flush 24hrs a day 365 days a year.

Timer controls can be fitted to more accurately control flush frequency and will

prevent out-of-hours flushing.

Occupancy sensor controls are even better to ensure that urinals only flush when

they have been used.


Battery operated occupancy sensors are the simplest to install but require battery

replacement and disposal.

Waterless urinals are now available and should be considered however they have

increased maintenance requirements and strict cleaning regimes which need to be

adhered to.


These is good potential to install urinal sensors controls across the leisure centre

sector.

Check what controls are in place now, if none, then these are the priority especially

for toilets with minimal occupant usage.

While many urinals have timer controls you also need to check if they prevent out-

of-hours flushing.

6.7.5 Water meter sizing


Water meters are often incorrectly sized

(refer to table 6.2 below) when initially

installed or the water meter size

requirement may have changed due to

changes on site.

Optimum water meter size depends on:

Water consumption (manual reads or

invoices).

Peak flow requirements (AMR data or

estimation).

Availability of water storage (survey).


Table 6.2 Guide to water meter capacity

Meter Size (mm) Typical Min. Consumption

(m3/year)

Typical Max. Consumption

(m3/year)

<20 0 2,609

25 – 30 2,610 3,653

40 3,654 6,263

50-63 6,264 10,439

80 10,440 37,559

100 37,560 62,599

150 62,600 75,119

Table 6.3 Typical water meter fixed costs

Meter Size (mm) Water Charge

(£/year)

Wastewater

Charge

(£/year)

Total Fixed Costs

(£/year)

<20 £143 £138 £281

25 - 30 £425 £445 £870

40 £1,203 £1,261 £2,463

50-63 £2,673 £2,803 £5,476

80 £6,961 £7,062 £14,023

100 £16,839 £17,196 £34,035

150 £47,381 £41,195 £88,576


May be difficult or expensive to get the water company to change the meter.

Potential risk that water meter is undersized.

Not possible to downsize your meter if it feeds fire fittings. However agreements can

be made that fixed charges are only paid for general use requirements.


Survey the complete water services infrastructure and end points to advise any

recommendations on improvements to reduce the water consumption.

Survey and carry out an analysis of the water management procedures for the pool

and associated equipment which includes filters, pumps, pool covers and control

equipment.

Where possible, analyse AMR data from the water meter and advise if the existing

water meter can be downsized and if so, detail the benefits and any cost/risk that

maybe incurred.


In most leisure centres a

combination of the following waste

streams can be recycled more

effectively:

Plastic bottles

Drink cans (& food tins)

Paper

Cardboard

Food waste

6.8 Waste minimisation/management

6.8.1 Waste segregation at source and awareness


It has been found by Zero Waste Scotland

(ZWS) that significant awareness raising

measures are associated with higher

recycling rates

(www.zerowastescotland.org.uk).

Introducing recycling bins with an awareness campaign will help to maintain high

percentage figures of waste recycled versus potential recyclable waste.

Initatiting compostable food packaging in canteen areas to reduce waste and provide

supply to centralised waste food collection for Anaerobic Digestion.

Easy to follow posters / signage can be produced and placed next to recycling bins to

provide user information and improve waste segregation awareness. Please visit our poster

creator website for assistance with developing signagePotential barriers to be aware of

The success of more effective use of recycling bins and conducting a thorough

awareness campaign depends on engaging the majority of staff, and ensuring that a

campaign does not lapse into inactivity. You should therefore ensure that a clear

communications strategy is developed before engaging with staff.

Without a proper measurement system it will not be possible to estimate

performance or set waste minimisation targets.

There is a need for investment and change of operation with regards to compostable

packaging.


It should be possible to increase recycling rates at all leisure centres to a greater or

lesser extent, with improved awareness and recycling options.

Undertake a detailed waste audit, Zero Waste Scotland can help

www.zerowastescotland.org.uk Its recommended to include the following:

o A waste audit of the current waste streams.

o Confirm what waste streams are to be monitored specifically a breakdown of

recycled waste streams.

o Appoint an on-site waste champion.

o Determine who and how waste volume data will be converted and reported

and to whom.

o Set waste minimisation and recycling targets.

o Obtain additional internal and external recycling bins.

o Discuss with the Council or waste contractor the addition of recycling

arrangements/pickups.

o Conduct staff training on waste practices.

Implement an awareness campaign and signpost new recycling bins.

On-going performance monitoring on a suggested weekly and monthly basis.

http://www.zerowastescotland.org.uk/

http://rfspostercreator.com/

http://rfspostercreator.com/

http://www.zerowastescotland.org.uk/


7 Key regulatory requirements impacting on leisure centres

in Scotland

Environmental Protection (Duty of Care) (Scotland) Regulations SSI 2014/4;

Environmental Protection Act 1990 Part II:

Waste producers are responsible for the safe transfer and recovery or disposal of all waste

produced at all points of the waste management chain. Producers of waste have legal

responsibility for waste until it has been safely recycled or accepted by an incineration or

landfill disposal site.

Producers of waste must ensure they are given appropriate waste paperwork for the

collection of all waste; Waste Transfer Notes (WTN) for non-hazardous waste and Special

Waste Consignment Notes (SWCN) for special waste. Controlled waste must only be

transferred to a registered Waste Carrier, a holder of a Waste Management Licence, or a

person with an exemption from holding a licence.

The Waste (Scotland) Regulations 2011 SSI 2012/148; Waste Framework

Directive (2008/98/EC)

Producers of waste are required to take “reasonable steps to promote high quality

recycling”. Therefore, a waste producer must: apply the waste hierarchy and present glass,

metal, plastic, paper & card for separate collection (wherever practicable); maintain the

quality of dry recyclables and separate food waste if more than 5kg per week (and a

collection service is available).

Special Waste Regulations 1996, Special Waste (Scotland) Regulations 1997,

Special Waste (Scotland) Regulations 2004

Waste producers must monitor Special Waste produced and segregate from the non-

hazardous and inert waste streams.

Each transfer of special waste must be accompanied by a completed SWCN. A producer of

special waste must keep a chronological record of the quantity, nature, origin, destination,

frequency of collection, and carrier details of the special waste produced by them.

Landfill (Scotland) Regulations 2003, Landfill Directive (99/31/EC)

Producers of waste must seek to follow the waste hierarchy in order to minimise waste

generation and maximise material recovery for recycling and other options in preference to

landfill. Waste arising from producers of waste must experience some form of 'pre-

treatment' before the waste is removed from site, or the waste contractor is to perform this

on behalf of the waste producer.

‘Pre-treatment' describes a level of waste segregation to maximise reuse and recycling

opportunities and minimise disposal to landfill.

Energy Performance of Buildings Directive (EPBD)

The Energy Performance of Buildings Directive is an EU measure designed to tackle climate

change by reducing the amount of carbon produced by buildings.

The main requirements are:

Energy performance certificate to be produced and displayed in a prominent location

for Public Buildings greater than 250m2.

Air conditioning equipment above 12kW rating to be inspected regularly with a TM44

inspection report.


8 Strategic implementation guidance

There is help available for the public sector in Scotland to access funding to deliver energy

efficiencyor renewable projects through “normal works” type procurement processes. The

Resource Efficient Scotland programme can advise on sources of funding available and such

works funded through traditional procurement, will facilitate the delivery of energy

efficiency measures which can be financedthrough spend-to-save.

Project initiation requires a robust business case to establish capital expenditure, resource

savings, non-capital projects costs, other avoided or additional operating costs, detailed risk

assessment and some outline project planning. Resource Efficient Scotland

www.resourceefficientscotland.com can provide further advice and support to help Leisure

Centres to take forward opportunities identified in this report through to the initial stages of

implementation.

Central Energy Efficiency Fund (CEEF)

The Scottish Local Authorities are eligible to access the Central Energy Efficiency Fund

(CEEF), which is a rolling fund which can be used for a variety of energy efficiency

measures. CEEF funding is used by eligible organisations where the savings from energy

efficiency measures are re-invested into the fund (locally) and used to invest in further

energy efficiency measures. Organisations accessing the funding have the opportunity to

part-fund projects using CEEF funding with the caveat that the CEEF funding must

demonstrably contribute towards carbon savings. In order to qualify for CEEF funding,

energy efficiency project finances must achieve a maximum “simple payback” period of 7

years or 10 years for renewables. Those accessing CEEF funding are now obliged to report

on the financial progress of projects (expenditure, projects implemented and savings)

annually.

Up to 10% of the fund’s value at the start of each year can be spent on running costs and

feasibility studies which are directly related to the running of the fund. These include:

Training;

Promotional activities;

Wage costs of new posts created to support the fund;

Improving energy management information; and

Feasibility studies that are part of a committed installation project.

Other projects may be eligible and will be considered on a case by case basis.

Salix Finance Loans

From April 2013, the Scottish Government also expanded the eligibility criteria of the Salix

Finance energy efficiency loans scheme to the wider public sector. In order to qualify for a

Salix loan, CEEF fund holders must have utilised their CEEF fund in that financial year and

updated the website with the full project details. Projects can be joint funded between CEEF

and Salix, which will be ideal for large scales projects such as replacement of H&V plant or

pool equipment.

Funded by the Scottish Government, Salix Finance have now been working with the public

sector in Scotland since 2006. Salix operates a funding source, supporting the public sector

with 100% interest free loans to cover the initial capital investment of energy efficiency

projects, with repayments made back to Salix through the energy savings achieved.

Funding can only be spent on capital projects, but contractor and consultant fees can be

included within the loan, provided it still meets payback criteria.

To be eligible for Salix funding, projects must use specific energy saving technologies

(outlined in a Salix compliance tool, available from www.salixfinance.co.uk/knowledge-

share/compliance-tools). Many of the outputs and figures from your survey can be dropped

straight into the compliance tool. Projects must meet a maximum 8 year payback period,


http://www.salixfinance.co.uk/knowledge-share/compliance-tools

http://www.salixfinance.co.uk/knowledge-share/compliance-tools


projects exceeding an 8 year payback may be part funded using a Salix loan with the

additional funding sourced by the public body. Further details on the Salix funding available

in Scotland can be found on www.salixfinance.co.uk.

Energy Performance Contract via the Private Sector

An alternative to “normal works” type procurement will be through the provision of an

“Energy Performance Contract” (EnPC) arrangement whereby a private sector provider

undertakes the required works and assumes the performance risk by guaranteeing energy

savings either for a transparent fee (or unitary payment) or through a share of savings

arrangement. The private sector may also be able to bring third party capital funding into

play which will fund both the capital element and also any project unitary payment. Under a

guaranteed savings programme if the savings are not realised the provider pays the

difference and takes all performance risk.

There are various frameworks including the “Refit” programme which can facilitate the

provision of EnPC’s within the Scottish public sector and the Scottish Government are also in

the process of developing a Non Domestic Energy Efficiency (NDEE) framework to facilitate

the provision of EnPC programmes across the Scottish public sector.

9 For more information

For further information on how advice and support from the Resource Efficient Scotland

programme could help your business or organisation, please contact us

www.resourceefficientscotland.com

[email protected]

@ResourceScot

0808 808 2268

Full contact details are available within the footer of this document.

http://www.salixfinance.co.uk/


mailto:[email protected]


Appendix 1: Template for an ‘on-site audit’ checklist

On site checklist Covered Control Intervention log

Comments

Behaviour

Review visible onsite policie

Review of evidence of awareness programmes

BMS Review

Coverage

Functionality

Settings review

Metering

Review of fiscal meters for AMR suitability

Audit of water meters and their ratings, locations, ease of access and condition

Check rating of water meter against metered usage to determine opportunity for downsizing

Water Use Toilets, Cisterns, Urinals, Showers

Audit of cisterns, toilets, urinals and showers

Water Use Infrastructure

Review application of leakage detection procedures

Review application of maintenance procedures

Pool Water Management and Treatment

Description and condition assessment

Back wash regime

Review application of cleaning and maintenance procedures including refill rate, deck cleaning, filter maintenance etc

Leak detection procedure review

Waste Management

Identification of waste streams

Review of application of contractor waste procedures

Review recycling/waste receptacles for quality of recycling practices and effectiveness of segregation

Review of signage

Review of security of waste storage facilities

Heating Plant


Detailed boiler house/s audit

Audit of all heat exchange/calorifier plant rooms

Identify areas for heat recovery to include backwashing and ventilation

Insulation survey

Review of system documentation, to include annual performance reports, efficiency checks, system schematics, existing test or commissioning reports, PPM reports etc


Ventilation and air conditioning plant


Review of pool hall temperature and humidity conditions and controls

Review of system documentation, to include annual performance reports, efficiency checks, system schematics etc

Initial audit of all cooling / chilling systems

Review of previous reports e.g. TM44 reports

Any R22 refrigerant identified or other F-Gas issues

Review of BMS and local control settings

Motors, pumps and drives


Drive / pump/ motor efficiencies and VSD review

Lighting


Detailed audit of areas identified as having inefficient lighting systems

Creation of a lighting inventory and upgrade and replacement calculator in Excel format

Opportunities for increasing natural light or daylight usage

Review existing behavioural practises relating to lighting

Particular focus will be given to opportunities for installation of LED lighting

Lighting Controls

Sensor types

Time delays

Luminance levels

Electrical Infrastructure and transformers

Voltage level check

Condition of power factor correction equipment

Review of other major auxiliary electrical loads such as fans and pumps

Review of ICT and small power loads

Electrical base-load assessment

Renewable and low carbon energy technologies

Description and condition assessment of existing renewables

Initial high level assessment of all renewable technologies and applicability to site

CHP assessment

High level District heating assessment

Building Fabric

Initial walk round audit of building fabric

Detailed audit of prioritized areas for building fabric upgrades and improvements


Appendix 2: Resource management performance matrices

Energy Management Matrix

Score Level

Management Data Control Awareness

5

Site is aware of energy consumption, reports regularly and takes action on energy issues. There is a named member of staff responsible. Policies and procedures are in place at site and followed at all times. This site has achieved or is working towards an accredited standard.

Meters read at site, data recorded and maintained locally. This is used to check off against supplier statements and informs wider action on energy.

BMS controls have been optimised for the operation of the site.

All staff on site are trained and informed in relation to energy awareness. All staff have an excellent understanding of the importance of energy efficiency. All training is refreshed regularly or when required. A named individual at site is responsible for disseminating information and feeding back to external management. Staff are aware of external individuals with responsibility.

4

Site is aware of energy consumption but relies on external leadership to address issues and provide information. Policies and processes are in place on site and generally followed but not consistently.

Meters are read but information is maintained externally. Information is used to inform wider action but out-with the involvement of site.

BMS control is in place but has not been optimised for the operating hours of the site.

Staff are given initial training in relation to energy awareness and understand the importance of energy efficiency. However there is no regular refresher training and no named individual at site. Staff are aware of external individuals with responsibility.

3

Management receives information from external resource and relies on this to take action on energy issues. There are written policies and procedures in place but these are followed sporadically.

Meters are read, information is maintained externally but no action or information is received by the site.

Automated controls are used to control timing of heat and hot water, but no BMS is in place.

Staff are given initial training and there is good understanding of the need for energy efficiency. There is no named individual at site. Staff are aware of any external individuals who provide this information.

2

Site receives sporadic information on energy consumption but has no knowledge of how to implement consistent leadership. There are written policies and procedures but these are not followed.

No data recorded on site but information can be gained from external individual responsible for this.

Automated controls are in place but are not used or are not optimally set for the operation of the site.

Staff are given initial training but no updates. There is a basic understanding of energy awareness at site. No named site individual. Staff are aware of external contact that can provide information if requested.

1

There is no clear leadership at site in relation to energy. No knowledge of consumption and no action is taken at site to address issues. No policies or procedures in place and there is a lack of understanding regarding the need for these. Site reports issues when they arise but does not receive or maintain any information regarding energy. No policies or procedures in place.

No data recorded at site, no information is fed back to the site and contact with external responsible individual is limited or non-existent. Site is unaware of external data monitoring and does not receive any information or take any action at site.

No automated controls are in place, manual switching only.

Staff are unaware of the importance of energy efficiency. No initial training provided and there is no regular timetable for training. No named individual at site responsible for providing information or feedback to external management.


Water management matrix

Score Level

Management Control Data

5

Procedures and policies are in place at site in relation to water use. Signage is in place. Meters (if present) read. Training programme is in place and updated and refreshed regularly. Named individual responsible for water consumption at site.

All appropriate measures for water control have been taken at site. Staff training on water use has been carried out and updates scheduled. Maintenance regime regularly checks on water efficiency. Temperature control in place to prevent scalding.

Site is billed for water directly by supplier. Meter readings are recorded at site and passed to external individuals for records. These are used as the basis of reduction strategies for the site or for identifying issues and leaks.

4

Some procedures and policies are in place but require updating along with signage. Meters (if present) are sometimes read. Training happens in a reactionary manner. Named individual responsible for water consumption at site.

Some measures in place to make water use more efficient. Some training has taken place. Planned maintenance does go ahead but will mainly focus on repair rather than efficiency improvement. Temperature control in place to prevent scalding.

Site is billed for water directly by supplier. Meter readings are recorded at site and passed to external individual for records. Data is sometimes used for financial verification.

3

Some procedures and policies are in place but require updating along with signage. No training or meter reading takes place at site. No named individual responsible for water consumption at site.

No measures in place to control water consumption. Planned maintenance focuses on repair only. Temperature control in place.

Site is not billed directly and holds no data but has requested data from an external management team in relation to consumption and performance.

2

Older procedures exist for the site but are now regarded as obsolete. No training and no meter reading takes place. No named individual is responsible for water consumption at site.

No temperature control in place. Repair regime is reactionary and focuses on best value repair rather than water efficiency.

Site is not billed directly and holds no data but can request data from an external management team and is not concerned with obtaining data on water use.

1

No policies or procedures in place, no signage, no training programme. No reading of meters. No named individual is responsible for water consumption at site.

No measures in place to control water. No planned maintenance that will take into account water efficient technology or repairs that have an effect on water efficiency. No temperature control in place.

No data recorded at site or requested by the site from supplier or external management.


Waste management matrix

Score

Level Management Compliance Procurement Containment

5

Excellent management of information, training and instruction on the discard of different wastes and recyclates. Policies and procedures are in place. Training on compliance is regularly updated and a named individual at site is responsible for waste and recyclate. This process is consistently adhered to and updated as required to comply with legislation.

All relevant paper work and waste transfer notes are retained on site and externally. All paper work is updated when required and signed by relevant senior individual. Site undergoes an internal audit of paper work and procedures in order to assess compliance and make changes where necessary. Site visits to waste contractors have been arranged in order to verify contractors stated service in terms of discard and recycling.

All contractors providing material and resource to the site are assessed in terms of sustainable behaviour and sustainability of resource. All electrical equipment is assessed in relation to end of life discard and process. Procurement considers the reuse potential of any office, accommodation furniture when making furniture decisions Site is asked to contribute to any central procurement policies with regard to waste hierarchy.

All waste and recyclate is separated at site and stored in dedicated areas which are secure and tamper and vermin proof. All refuse areas clean and dry. Differing waste and recyclate is stored in approved/appropriate receptacles. Waste does not pose environmental or health and safety hazard to site and surrounding area. Access for refuse and recycling contractors is safe and hazard free. Waste audit is carried out in order to assess whether procedures are being adhered to. Special collections are organised for

specific waste.

4

Good management of information, training and instruction on the disposal of different wastes and recyclates. Policies and procedures are in place but not updated as regularly as could be. Individual at site is responsible. Process is consistently adhered but legal compliance has not been reviewed regularly.

All relevant paper work and waste transfer notes are retained on site/ externally. All paper work is updated when required and signed by relevant senior individual. Site undergoes an internal audit of paper work and procedures in order to assess compliance. No site visits to contractors are carried out. No audits are carried out.

Procurement process adheres to minimal requirements in term of contractors’ sustainability procedures. Procurement decisions are made in relation to waste and end of life of material but only where finance allows.

Waste and recyclate storage conditions are generally in good order. Refuse areas are clean and dry and vermin free. Access for refuse and recycling contractors is safe and hazard free. Audits are carried out to assess whether procedures are being adhered to. Special collections are organised for specific types of waste. Storage area is not secured.

3

Basic management of information, training and instruction on the discard of different wastes and recyclates. Policies and procedures are in place and are updated sporadically. No named responsible individual at site. Procedures generally adhered to.

Relevant paper work and waste transfer notes are retained on site /externally. Relevant documentation is generally updated with some gaps in annual versions and control. No contractor site visits are arranged and no audits of procedures or documentation takes place.

Sporadic implementation of policies and procedures in relation to procurement of sustainable material, however, finance is the main driver for this process.

Waste storage area is in an acceptable order. Area is generally clean with some litter present. Access for refuse and recycling contractors is acceptable. Storage area is not secure. No audits take place. No evidence of special arrangements for specific types of waste.

2

Management information relating to waste is outdated and incomplete. Policies and procedures are also outdated and in need of refreshing.

No current documentation could be accounted for at site however documentation is held externally. Procedures for waste control have been written but not updated. No site visit to contractors. No audit of written procedures or documentation takes place at site.

All procurement of material takes place external to the site and the site has no say in the matter.

Waste is not separated at site and is collected in a single container. No separate recyclate carts are present. Waste storage area is littered with possible hazard underfoot. Storage area is not secure.


Appendix 3: Benchmarking guidance for leisure centres

A simple high level benchmarking exercise may be carried out by comparing the overall site

electricity and heating fuel consumption per unit floor area against one of the benchmarks

above which best describes the site. Some guidelines for carrying out a benchmarking

exercise now follows:

Use the “The Energy Consumption Guide 78 (ECG078)

The Energy Consumption Guide 78 (ECG078 Energy Consumption Guide 78 - Energy use in

sports and recreation buildings), upon which the CIBSE values are based, describes the

‘composition’ of each type of site in terms of % floor area for each facility and may be used

to determine the closest match. ECG078 also contains data which allows the tailoring of

benchmark values to a site which doesn’t quite fit the composition of one of seven examples

provided.

Recent good quality electricity and heating fuel annual consumption (kWh) figures should be

used. If the heating fuel is oil or biomass, an accurate record of deliveries and stock

volumes should be used to determine the annual consumption. Gross floor areas (in metres

squared) should be used.

The benchmark values are average national figures based on a sample of 200 sites so it

may improve accuracy to make adjustments for location (climate), site exposure (e.g.

coastal or hillside) and usage (number of customers). This is particularly relevant for sites

in Scotland. ECG078 includes simple adjustments for these factors. There are also

adjustments for additional features such as CHP (combined heat and power) and older

buildings, tailored for each building type.

Increasing benchmark efficiency

To increase benchmark accuracy, buildings energy performance should ideally be measured

by a normalised performance indicator (NPI), normally being a weather-adjusted kWh per

square metre of floor area. This is achieved by adjusting for changes in weather conditions

at a particular site location by making weather related adjustments using degree day

compensation. In addition performance indices may also be modified to take into account

other variables which will impact on energy performance including aspects such as

exposure, building occupancy, size and activities etc.

Various adjustment methods may be used. For example, at Vesma.com

(http://www.vesma.com/energy_benchmarking.htm) a more tailored approach to adjusting

for weather based on local heating degree days is outlined.

Making conclusions from a benchmarking exercise

Having made any necessary adjustments, general conclusions may be derived:

consumption above ‘typical’ would suggest immediate action to reduce energy; if

consumption is between ‘typical’ and ‘good practice’ then steps should be taken to improve

energy usage; and even if consumption is below ‘good practice’, further measures may be

implemented albeit less urgently. Note that cost per m2 values presented in ECG078 are

1

No policies and procedures are in place at site. Staff have not received training on waste handling. No responsible individual at site. No management information or leadership in relation to waste.

No current documentation is retained at site and no knowledge of evidence of waste compliance exists.

Equipment end of life and waste has no influence on the purchasing decisions of the site or external body.

Waste is not separated at site and goes straight to landfill. No separation of waste,

http://www.vesma.com/energy_benchmarking.htm


outdated (the document was published in 2001) and should not be used but may be

updated with current pence per kWh values.

The overall site benchmarking exercise is, however, a rather simplistic measurement of

performance and ideally a more detailed analysis of end uses should be performed. Table

10 in ECG078 breaks down electrical and heating fuel use into specific uses e.g. lighting and

ventilation for each zone which makes up the site. Based on the site’s composition,

benchmarks for specific end uses may be derived and then comparison made with actual

consumptions. This approach would help to focus attention on specific areas that require

immediate attention.

Documents

Resource Efficiency in Leisure Centres and Sports Facilities … · 2015-08-26 · fifteen leisure centre sites across Scotland. These sites included combined wet / dry facilities,