Scoil Chuimsitheach Chiaráin upgraded their building energy rating
This post-primary school went from a C3 to a B2 Building Energy Rating (BER). To achieve this, extensive fabric upgrades were carried out through the 2020 Schools Energy Retrofit Pathfinder programme.
Background
Scoil Chuimsitheach Chiaráin was selected through the Public Sector Pathfinder Programme. The school was comprehensively assessed to identify suitable upgrade measures. These needed to deliver value to both the school and the programme learnings.
The project
Fabric upgrades included:
- Applying external wall insulation to fair-faced concrete uninsulated walls
- Applying additional insulation to the spandrel panels of the curtain walling system
- Upgrades of roof insulation and roof lights
- New windows
- Air tightness improvements
Mechanical and electrical upgrades included the installation of the following:
- LED lighting system with occupancy and daylight control
- 11 kWp Solar PV system
- New high-efficiency LPG condensing boiler system to replace inefficient oil-fired boiler
- New radiators, pipework, and control systems
- EV charging
Energy improvements
| Measure | Pre works status | Post works status |
|---|---|---|
| Energy Consumption | 197 kWh/m2 | 106 kWh/m2 |
| Building Energy Rating | C3 | B2 |
| Lighting Upgrade | T8s | LED with occupancy and daylight controls |
| Walls U Value | 2.2 W/m2k | 0.3 W/m2k |
| Windows U Value | 2.0 W/m2k | 1.4 W/m2k (partial upgrade) |
| Flat Roof 1 U Value | 1.2 W/m2k TBC | 0.12 W/m2k |
| Flat Roof 2 U Value | 2.3 W/m2k | 0.12 W/m2k |
| Heating System Type | Oil fired boiler | High efficiency LPG condensing boiler including radiators pipework and controls |
| Heating System Efficiency | Unknown | 94% |
| Solar PV | 0kWp | 11kWp |
| EV Charging | None | Installed |
Results and key achievements
- 48% estimated energy savings (294,000 kWh per year)
- Designed to achieve 52% reduction in CO2 emissions
- Positive feedback from teachers and students of improved comfort in teaching and learning environment
Get involved
The Energy in Education programme offers a range of supports to help schools to improve energy management practices, reduce operating costs and protect the environment.
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