Energy Efficiency in Buildings

Bound by some strict self-imposed carbon reduction goals, and knowing that the construction and operation of buildings is a major source of carbon emissions, it was vital that we take a close look at the building we intend to operate out of.
To achieve a low carbon footprint for our building, we were faced with the choice, either:

• finding a suitable building and upgrading it to increase energy efficiency; or,
    
• developing a completely new building concept incorporating the latest know how and technology from the fields of sustainable construction and operational workflow.

Researching the information available in the field of sustainable construction and energy efficiency in buildings, we were surprised by the level of know-how existing today.  Moreover we were surprised by the economic viability of constructing energy efficient buildings, especially in comparative costings which take account of the forecast future cost of energy.

We took the decision to develop and showcase a new building concept that is capable of two things:

1. Zero-net-energy use
    
2. Zero-net-carbon emission

Its name, the Boathouse, derives from its foreseen coastal location and its function as a headquarters of our sailing team.

The current Energy Efficiency in Buildings (EEB) study of the World Business Council for Sustainable Development (WBCSD), published in August 2007, gave us further insights and encouragement to address the issues relevant to achieving our goal.

The Carbon Challenge Boathouse project was presented to the EEB project group in late August 2007.  In October 2007, the EEB members voted to make knowledge and experience gained through the EEB project available to Carbon Challenge in order to help the Boathouse project team to meet its targets.

As a result of this process, it is our sincere belief that the EEB project is one of the most important global initiatives generated by the business world to tackle climate change.

The study they have published offers profound insights into problems and opportunities confronting the building sector in the areas of energy consumption and carbon emission.

While we expect the Boathouse to be an important first-hand demonstration of the extraordinary common sense of sustainable buildings, we encourage anyone interested in this field to look into the findings of the EEB: 

Energy Efficiency in Buildings: Business Realities and Opportunities
This study highlights opportunities to promote green building know-how and technologies as the WBCSD pushes for zero net energy construction worldwide through its Energy Efficiency in Buildings (EEB) project. Zero net energy buildings will reduce demand by design, be highly efficient and generate at least as much energy as they consume.