What Does It Mean to Minimise Demand Through Passive Measures?
At Varming Consulting Engineers, we’re proud to be one of Ireland’s leading firms, and we regularly bring you blogs like this one to provide insight into the work we do. Today, we look at passive measures and their importance in energy-efficient buildings.
In the sphere of M & E engineers, passive measures represent a fundamental concept, particularly in the field of sustainable building design. They focus on reducing a building’s energy demand before installing electrical and mechanical systems.
So, Exactly Are Passive Measures?
Not to be confused with Passivhaus (a rigorous, voluntary standard for energy efficiency in buildings), passive design advocates building design choices that maximise the efficient use of natural resources. This can be related to ventilation, cooling or heating to create comfortable interior conditions.
As such, passive design is considered exceptionally sustainable. These measures also help lower operational costs, require minimal maintenance, and contribute to the longevity of the building.
Passive Design Factors to Consider
When building services design consultants approach the passive design process, a variety of factors need to be considered to maximise efficiency. The following factors must be considered when talking about building expansions, building upgrades, refurbishments and new developments:
- Shading (constructed & natural)
- Sunlight (solar radiation & lighting)
- Building orientation & internal layout
- Material Re-use
- Thermal massing
- Passive ventilation
- Landscape
A great example of passive measures in action can be seen in the Clonakilty Community Hospital project that the Varming team of consulting engineers was involved with in 2022. We were commissioned to design the mechanical and electrical services installations for the 20-bed ward extension, including communal areas.
Supporting the Move to a Sustainable World
Passive design is a concept central to creating sustainable buildings, and it’s part of a broader move to an energy-efficient future. The Varming team is behind all efforts to achieve a world where buildings and the natural world coexist perfectly.
If you’d like to see more of our past projects over our 75+ years of history in the industry, take a minute to browse our site, www.varming.ie, which shows many examples. Alternatively, to our expert team about your next project, simply call 01 4872300, and we’ll gladly give you the help you require.
