The Building Research Establishment is to host a major one-day conference in an attempt to encourage architects and building designers to meet environmental objectives during the design process and to dispel some of the myths surrounding renewable energy technologies.

The event, Building-integrated Renewable Energy (Tuesday 19th June) will cover a wide range of topics, including design principles; biomass technology applications; photo-voltaic domestic field trial case study; solar water heating; and passive stack ventilation.

The BRE says the use of renewable energy and the associated technologies is becoming an increasingly high-profile issue, thanks in part to the government’s recent announcement of £100m investment in renewable energy.

UK targets for carbon dioxide emissions require a reduction to 1990 levels by 2010. The integration of renewable energy technology into the built environment will be a significant factor in this reduction. Energy efficient practices incorporated into buildings at the design stage can result in a building with low or zero energy demand, which in turn can: maximise building longevity and occupant health, at the same time minimising environmental impact, resource use, operation costs and maintenance.

For further information or to obtain a booking form, contact Angela Mondair mondaira@bre.co.uk