ESG Metric: GHG Scope 1 emissions
Ease of implementation: Medium
Suitable for: Office, manufacturing and commercial building-based companies
Suggested functional lead: Office or building manager, finance
Summary
All facilities lose heat from windows, which leads to increased gas usage from heating, and increasing associated bills and emissions. Energy-efficient glazing can be an easy way to reduce energy lost and decrease natural gas emissions as the facility will require less frequent heating. With permission from the facility manager, investigate the best glazing insulation options for your facility. Collaborate with the finance department on the cost saving potential. Once a budget has been set, book the installation, monitor the consumption reduction and share emissions reductions with the team.
Implementation Steps
Get permission from office or building manager
If you do not own your building, request permission from the facility manager to install energy-efficient glazing. This might be a benefit for all employees because it will also address Scope 1 emissions for the other organisations that occupy. It might also drive and help the building owner to work towards sustainable building accreditations.
Investigate building regulations
In the UK, changing windows in listed buildings requires permission because historic buildings will be protected. There are options such as secondary glazing, which can be a non-intrusive insulation method for which permission may be granted. Investigate your building requirements and ensure you follow protocol.
Compare the energy efficiency and cost of insulation options
Investigate which material and style of glazing insulation is appropriate for your facility and working environment. types of insulation here. We suggest starting with window insulation and installing double or triple glazed windows for maximum insulation. However, other options include secondary glazing or heavier curtains, appropriate for historic and listed buildings.
Do a cost saving analysis
PVC windows tend to be cheaper than hardwood frames. However, the more efficient the insulation the larger the cost savings associated with reduced gas usage. Work together with the finance department to determine the allotted budget and identify any budget restraints or areas where extra funds are required.
Find an installer and book installation
For the UK, you can find an installer in your area here. Make an appointment for the installation and ensure this does not interfere with any work. The installation can take from 1 day to a couple of weeks depending on the size of the project.
Assign responsibility for monitoring the energy consumption and reducing where necessary
Assign responsibility to a member of staff to track the decrease in gas usage and make changes in usage where required. Ensure you have up to date gas meter readings and statements from the day before the installation. Assign the responsibility to monitor the decrease in gas usage and implement improvements to a member of staff. Improvement may include changing heating patterns to ensure it is not on all the time and at a lower temperature.
Estimated Cost
By installing double glazing in a detached house which previously had single glazing, one can save around £120-155 annually on gas usage.