Conker’s new energy efficient offices have now been open for two years, and having already gone through two heatwaves this year, and experiencing another one at the moment, this is how the offices have been coping in the unusual, but increasing expected conditions.

The MVHR runs all day ensuring 100% fresh air; this adjusts air volume according to CO2 loads. The comfort cooling from our reversible heat pump has only been switched on when necessary, and then at the lowest setting. While the temperature outside is approximately 35 degrees Celsius, inside it is a cool and comfortable 24 degrees. Without cooling, internal temperatures rise due to 4-6 staff, computers, printers etc.

We keep windows closed during the day to keep out the heat and humidity, but opening them early in the morning brings in a cool dose of fresh air.

There are five heat pumps serving the Starr Place development. The offices have been off the mains electricity grid for the last two months, running on 11 kW of solar panels coupled to 32 kWh battery storage. The system is on a shallow, south-facing roof located to avoid disturbing neighbours, hence the shallow angle. It is equipped with a controller that allows us to charge an electric car during peak times, but also reverse the flow to enable us to charge the batteries from an electric car if the car has a “power to load output”. The heat pump outdoor unit is completely concealed but accessible for maintenance, whilst the Conker unit is simply out of the way in the fruit and vegetable garden.

There are now five separate businesses operating from the site and using the solar power. Other tenants are also finding that using a very small amount of cooling for a brief period during the day is keeping them comfortable. Tenants have commented that this is the most comfortable building they have occupied.