XCO2 undertook detailed design of a low-carbon visitor’s centre in the Chiltern Downs. The low energy services strategy includes zero carbon heating via a wood chip boiler, BMS controlled natural ventilation systems linked with an earth coupled supply air strategy for teaching areas. Air supply is delivered via a 90m long concrete duct buried in the ground to allow ‘free cooling’ in the summer. Our post-occupancy monitoring has shown the earth pipe to produce a 9oC reduction in supply air temperature during the summer months.
