Plumbing Africa September 2018 | Page 45

PROJECT IMPACT OF THE SYSTEM ON ELECTRICAL USE Heat pumps: It uses a small amount of energy to move heat from one location to another by using the sun's free heat in collecting and absorbing energy from the outside air. This energy is then compressed and transferred to water. The heat pumps work extremely efficiently, because it simply transfers heat. It is designed to operate between -15°C and 40°C ambient. As the ambient temperatures change, the heating output of a heat pump will vary, and it will take a bit longer to get to temperature. Heat pumps provide up to 70% savings in domestic water heating costs. VSD pumps: These can reduce energy consumption by regulating electric motor speeds to match the energy demand with the system load. This means that it matches the actual demand so that it does not need to work faster than it needs to. Looking at the energy efficiency or sustainability aspects, the spokesperson says that the building has been designed, and will be operated, in an environmentally sustainable manner. Passive building design techniques and environmental considerations will ensure a 4-Star Green Star rating, creating a healthier and more productive environment. When asked what makes the system special/unique, the spokesperson says: “We are using the latest technologies to include water-saving efficiencies. By using a rainwater harvesting system, you reduce your water bill and conserve water at the same time. The practice of rainwater harvesting is becoming more prevalent as water costs rise and freshwater resources become increasingly scarce, whether due to drought, climate change, or a failing infrastructure. PA www.plumbingafrica.co.za 43 An aerial view of construction in the early days of the Rosebank Link. Construction work inside the Rosebank Link. LIST OF PROFESSIONALS Owner Developer Contractor Architect / Designer Quantity surveyor Project manager Green building consultant Consulting Electrical engineers Mechanical Wet services Civil Fire Contractors Main building HVAC&R Wet services Redefine Properties Redefine Properties WBHO Paragon Architects MLC Betts & Townsend WSP CKR Consulting Engineers Adaptive Resource Engineers CKR Consulting Engineers Sutherland Engineers SFT WBHO Blue Hemisphere Modern Plumbing September 2018 Volume 24 I Number 7