Energy performance of Scottish public buildings and its impact on the ability to use low-temperature heat

Decarbonising heat in the UK by 2050 will require wider adoption of low-temperature heat. Current systems, largely relying on gas boilers, have design operating temperatures 82/71 °C (supply/return) while new standards for 4th Generation District Heating are 55/25 °C. Local authorities must set-up strategies to get their buildings “Heat network ready” but this raises question ability existing use The aim and novelty paper is establish a relationship between an energy ‘performance gap’ Scottish public This performance gap has been evaluated 121 non-domestic buildings, primarily schools, operated City Edinburgh Council. Space heating system assumed oversized 10%. results show that renovation building envelope, highly desirable, not pre-requisite using pre-1980 constructed which represent 64% stock. It also highlights post-1980 predominantly utilising mechanical ventilation demonstrate increasing could limit reduced temperature, especially windy conditions.