Solar panels are just one of the many environmental features Leicester City Council has introduced to improve its headquarters, New Walk Centre.
New Walk is a typical 1970s building comprising of two large office blocks which dominate the city skyline. But the height of these buildings makes them ideal for a solar thermal system, which uses the sun's rays to heat water. Solar panels were installed on the roof of the nine-storey B block - well out of sight of passers-by, but perfect for capturing solar energy.
Facilities Manager Andy Bubb said: "As one of the largest employers in Leicester, the council has got to be seen to be environmentally friendly and taking the lead. Installing green features also brings many financial benefits. With a building the size of New Walk, you really need to control energy use carefully."
The council also invested in a comprehensive Building Energy Management System in 1990. This system, which includes timing controls and weather compensating features, has dramatically improved the efficiency of New Walk's space heating.
The council spent £12,000 on the system, but believes it has already helped to save more than £30,000 on fuel costs.
Lighting is also a crucial issue in buildings which accommodate more than 1,200 staff. A Proximity Lighting System has been fitted to alleviate the problem of unnecessary lights being left on. All of the lights in the corridors and lift lobbies at
New Walk automatically switch off when these areas are unoccupied. Low-energy lighting also reduces the amount of energy used.
The council is always looking for new ways to make its buildings more environmentally friendly, and another exciting project may be in the pipeline. Mr Bubb said: "We are looking into the possibility of installing a windsave system at New Walk Centre in the future. We would be able to generate our own electricity by putting little windmills on the top of the buildings, which can reach speeds of up to 40mph."
To find out more about New Walk's green features call Facilities Manager Andy Bubb on 0116 299 5013 or email bubba001@leicester.gov.uk .
Outstanding environmental features:
Solar thermal system
Other green features:
Designated recycling areas, low-energy lighting, intelligent lighting controls, draught lobby entrance, flow restricted tap jets, push taps, movement detector taps, urinal flushing controls, cycle parking, FSC timber, PVC alternatives, low VOC paints and wildlife breeding aids.