What Is An Energy Pod?
In response to the brief the pods have been designed with a standardisation and DfM focus to create a kit of parts.
The following are considerations made in design process
The designs are MEP performance led and early engagement with manufacturers has been on a function focussed approach.
Pods are designed in bays, single, double or triple bay pods, Using the GEnZero standard grid size for plant rooms
The dimensions consider road restrictions and allow the pods to be transportable by Hiab lorry, this approach together with plug and play technology would aid the strategy of being dropped into existing infrastructure with minimal disruption to staff and pupils
The three standard designs are all extrusions of the same form and share common components. The three types are fitted out with interchangeable standard MEP equipment kits to create the different plantroom types and a range of capacities.
Standardisation is applied to frames, pipework, containment, cable-trays and to equipment that it not load sensitive. Plant that requires to be matched to a load is modularised to simplify selection, increase efficiency of manufacture and aggregate demand.
By using a consistent set of components to meet a wide variety of need, demand is aggregated for efficiency of manufacture and value
Materials were selected carefully to have low embodied carbon, this included use of CLT, natural insulation and recycled steel.
Cassette types set on a standard grid around the pod can be selected for which are the most appropriate fit for the school’s requirements and context
Educational value
The government’s push for decarbonisation of public sector buildings is a powerful educational opportunity for our learners. Society is in a phase of climate adaptation, and today's pupils are tomorrow’s leaders, so specific learning activities have been developed for pupil interaction with the pods on installation. Each pod will have access to Energy Sparks school specific energy management tool and activities.