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Watkins Payne has been actively involved in the NABERS UK scheme since it’s inception through the Better Building Partnership (BBP) in 2019. With experience across multiple projects, we continuously strive to enhance operational energy efficiency and apply these insights across all of our work. This dynamic field requires ongoing adaptation as we assess and fine-tune both new and existing buildings to optimise their operational energy performance.
Keen to apply these principles to our own built environment we first conducted a NABERS UK assessment of our office building in Surrey in 2023. Originally constructed in the 1960s, the building features natural ventilation, with heating and cooling provided through refrigerant based systems. With the release of the NABERS UK Whole Building Rating standard we were able to seek a rating for this single occupier office without requiring potentially costly metering upgrades. Afterward, we explored various energy improvement options, utilising an advanced simulation model, to anticipate potential NABERS rating enhancements. The identified upgrades included:
Last year, we implemented new lighting and established closer controls for heating, cooling, and ventilation, facilitated by staff education and the installation of timers on high-energy plant equipment. The initial assessment in October 2023 yielded a 5 Star NABERS UK rating—a first for the UK for any rating type and a significant achievement that inspired us to pursue further upgrades.
This year, we focused on additional improvements, including:
The previous single-glazed windows with secondary glazing were replaced with modern double-glazed units, significantly reducing heat loss and improving energy efficiency. The new windows are easier to operate encouraging staff to better utilise them particularly during this year’s relatively mild summer and winter.
On 4th November, we received confirmation of our recertification and are thrilled to announce a 5.5 Star NABERS UK rating for our Surrey office establishing another first for the rating scheme. We are incredibly proud of this accomplishment, which reflects the dedication of Rob Marshall and his team in demonstrating that exceptional energy performance can be achieved in older buildings by thoughtful implementation of operational changes and targeted energy improvements. Looking ahead, further potential enhancements, such as the addition of photovoltaic systems, will reinforce the current 5.5 Star rating and may allow us to elevate our rating even further.
Certificate N182722 confirms the 5.5 Star rating will be recorded on the new NABERS Administrator’s website once the Administrator is appointed.
