English

Mixed mode buildings are attracting a considerable amount of interest due to their apparent potential to deliver comfortable, healthy conditions with significant energy and environmental benefits. BRE and WBA are currently engaged in a three year research programme to generate the guidance necessary to achieve the effective integration of various mixed mode strategies into the most appropriate building forms, considering the occupying organisation's mode of operation. The project will culminate in the production of a CIBSE Applications Manual.

The BRE is developing an energy rating scheme for non-domestic buildings on behalf of the DoE, designed to encourage voluntary good practice and for possible future use within the Building Regulations. The scheme will allow building specifiers, occupiers and others to define and compare building performance in simple. terms. The UK programme is in its early stages, and a key part of its technical development and implementation involves consultation with a wide range of potential users. This paper outlines the policy and commercial needs driving the programme.

BRE, working with a group of industry and property representatives, have developed a simple method for assessing the likely energy efficiency of air conditioned and mechanically ventilated buildings. For new buildings, the method uses information available at the early design stages. It therefore provides designers with a tool to assess the implications of various plant and envelope options from the beginning. It can be used as a label or target for energy efficiency and, as such, as a means of assessing buildings in both voluntary systems such as BREEAM or perhaps in Building Regulations.