RE24 is playing a vital role in the ALCHEMAI project, focusing on providing energy solutions and analysis for non-domestic retrofitting. Their main focus is on one of the pilot sites that is located outside the main Bassetlaw Council District sites – a commercial building in Wales. 

Himaya, a project manager at RE24, tells us more about the company’s role as a partner of ALCHEMAI in collecting environmental and energy data from their commercial test bed. 

Sensor Installation 

Johnsey Estates is collaborating with RE24 to offer their Mamhilad Park Estate as a pilot site. Across the project, sensors are being installed in buildings like the Mamhilad building to monitor energy use. 

From this mixed-use office building, RE24 is collecting temperature, humidity and motion from sensors and clamp on meters to measure electricity consumption. Data gathered will help identify patterns in heating, lighting, and overall energy consumption.  

Post-installation, sensor data will be monitored via an online portal to assess building energy patterns. 

Impact from energy data 

Himaya says, "this project allows us to explore how our renewable energy expertise can adapt to retrofitting and decarbonising existing buildings." 

The data will provide critical lessons for non-domestic retrofits by assessing the feasibility of retrofitting changes and potential reductions in emissions. 

It will also help in planning renewable energy installations and identifying areas to reduce Scope 2 emissions (indirect emissions from electricity). RE24’s extensive experience with similar projects in this area adds considerable value to the project. 

Insights from RE24 

As experts in energy consumption, Himaya shared insights useful for commercial asset owners. She emphasises the importance of proper planning in retrofitting as essential in avoiding future complications. Himaya shares, "The key concept in building projects, particularly retrofits, is that it’s far easier and more cost-effective to get things right at the outset than to make corrections later.   

“Focusing on the energy profile and planning to meet targeted certification levels is also essential. This involves thoroughly considering how to achieve these goals through the design and retrofitting processes. 

“Rushing a project without proper planning can lead to significant challenges, but taking the time to plan carefully ensures a smoother process, reduces the need for costly modifications later, and sets the building up for long-term success.”  

Commercial retrofit 

Through careful planning and following the guidance provided by ALCHEMAI, RE24 believes that many commercial asset owners seeking to retrofit can benefit from the project’s work.  

The Welsh building serves as a valuable test bed, offering commercial building insights for comparison with public buildings provided by the council.