Decarbonisation of Foleshill Library

Overview

Foleshill Library, located in Coventry, undertook a significant decarbonisation project to improve its energy efficiency and reduce its carbon footprint.

The project also addressed structural elements of the building, such as the replacement of single cast iron pipework with more efficient flow and return systems. Additionally, the installation of smart heating controls allowed for more precise energy management.

Background

Foleshill Library is an important community hub, offering various services to local residents. However, like many public buildings, the library's energy consumption was relatively high, leading to increased operational costs and a larger environmental impact.

The library's facilities, including outdated windows, inefficient heating, and poor insulation, contributed significantly to its carbon emissions. The aim of the decarbonisation project was to improve energy efficiency, reduce energy consumption, and lower the building's overall carbon footprint in line with the UK’s ambitious climate targets.

Project Goals

1. Decarbonisation of the building's energy supply to reduce overall carbon emissions.

2. Upgrade insulation and heating systems to improve energy efficiency and reduce operational costs.

3. Enhance the comfort of library users by ensuring a more consistent indoor climate.

4. Support the local community's sustainability goals by setting an example for public buildings.

5. Implement smart heating controls to optimise heating schedules and reduce energy waste.

Scope of Work

The PSDS grant funded a comprehensive set of upgrades and interventions, including the following:

1. Architectural Design for Replacement Windows:

• The original windows, which were single-glazed, were inefficient at retaining heat. An architect was commissioned to design new, energy-efficient double-glazed windows, significantly reducing heat loss and improving the building's thermal performance.
• The new window design also enhanced the building’s aesthetics, making it more appealing and modern while maintaining its historical character.

 Loft Insulation:

• Insulating the loft was a key element of the project. By improving the insulation in the roof space, the library saw a reduction in heat loss through the top of the building, further enhancing energy efficiency.
• The insulation also helped in maintaining a more consistent internal temperature, reducing reliance on heating systems.

3. Ceiling Panels:

• Old, inefficient ceiling panels were replaced with more energy-efficient options, ensuring that the building's internal environment was optimised for energy performance. The new ceiling panels improved the building’s overall insulation and acoustics, making it more comfortable for users.

4. LED Lighting Installation:

•  Traditional lighting systems were replaced with energy-efficient LED lights. These lights use significantly less energy, have a longer lifespan, and offer better illumination quality, contributing to a reduction in the building's electricity consumption.

5. Gas Boiler Removal and Electric Boiler Installation:

• The gas boiler, which was responsible for heating the library, was replaced with an electric boiler system. This move supports the decarbonisation of the building’s heating system, as electric boilers do not rely on fossil fuels, reducing the building’s carbon footprint.

• The electric boiler is more energy-efficient and is powered by renewable energy sources where available, further reducing emissions associated with heating.

6. Replacement of Cast Iron Pipework:

• The library’s outdated cast iron pipework was replaced with modern, more efficient flow and return systems. This change helps optimise the performance of the new electric boiler system, ensuring that heat is distributed evenly and efficiently throughout the building.

7. Smart Heating Controls:

• The addition of smart heating controls allowed the library to optimise the operation of the new electric boiler. These controls enable precise scheduling of heating patterns based on occupancy and the specific needs of different areas within the library.
• The system features sensors that detect occupancy and automatically adjust the temperature, ensuring that energy is not wasted in unoccupied spaces. Additionally, remote access allows for adjustments based on real-time conditions, ensuring maximum energy savings without sacrificing user comfort.