News Centre

Fuel Saving Discovery by Cambridge Team

5 February 2004

Study findings indicate savings of 10 to 15% on household fuel bills following installation of innovative ventilation system

Preliminary results from a European Commission-sponsored research project being carried out by scientists in Ireland, Poland, Denmark and the UK indicate that household fuel bills could be reduced by between 10% and 15% if homes were fitted with a new type of window ventilation system that has recently been developed by the University of Cambridge.

The study findings are particularly relevant in the light of the European Union's ratification of the Kyoto Protocol and the commitment to reduce carbon dioxide emissions by 13% by 2010. Currently, energy generated for household heating purposes accounts for up to 20% of total annual CO2 emissions/unit GDP in EU Member States.

The findings are also relevant in the context of growing concerns about air quality in houses, and its implications for human health. Air quality has been found to be poor in many EU countries where national building regulations and codes prescribe sealed construction as an energy-saving measure. It is widely accepted by scientists and health experts that domestic condensation and the detrimental health impacts of poor air quality are partly due to the draught sealing of properties.

The European Commission 5th Framework Programme research project RDPCLEVS, which is due for completion in May 2004, aims to develop a robust energy-efficient ventilation system to counter the poor air quality that has been exacerbated by tighter modern construction techniques coupled with increased draught sealing of buildings. The project is also aimed at addressing the inter-related problems of health, energy and comfort.

In order to establish the range of climates to which the system is most appropriate, the project field studies are being carried out in Denmark, Northern Ireland and Poland - locations that were chosen for their variation in terms of climate and geographical spread.

In each location, selected homes have been fitted with an innovative low-energy, whole house ventilation system that has been developed by the University of Cambridge.

Among many benefits recorded to date, the new system improves energy efficiency (thereby reducing CO2 emissions and generating lower fuel bills); it provides effective whole house ventilation; combats condensation and mould growth; reduces cold draughts; involves simple installation and requires minimal maintenance.

The window ventilation system can be manufactured relatively inexpensively. If fitted during construction, for example, it would add as little as 10% to the overall window costs of a house/apartment. It is also suitable for retrofitting in older buildings where windows are being replaced.

Notes for Editors:

1. Diagrams of how the system works, in .gif format, available from the Press Office on request.

For more information, contact:

• 1. Press and Publications Office, University of Cambridge. Tel: 01223 332300; e-mail: ucam-press-office@lists.cam.ac.uk

  2. Dr Mike McEvoy, The Martin Centre, University of Cambridge. Tel: + 44 1 223 331 705 (office) or +44 77 6660 0640 (mobile - Dr. Ryan Southall)/ email: mm366@cam.ac.uk