Public building in Prague gets bespoke ventilation and heat recovery

• Well-ventilated indoor environment considered worth the premium for an office refit
• Energy consumption reduced by ~600 GJ per year
• Annual energy cost savings estimated at ~€ 9 000

An administrative building in Prague, the Czech Republic was fitted with a bespoke ventilation and heat-recovery system implemented during a recent refurbishment. The aim was to optimise air circulation  in the building and minimise heat losses during ventilation.

The system is comprised of two central units located on the roof of the building, which saves space for vertical intake and exhaust pipes. The units preheat the air to a desired temperature and ventilate the building automatically. The exchange system complements the existing heating system.

Key results

The cost of the refit was € 264 000. This investment reduces energy consumption by around 600 GJ per year, saving some € 9 000 on annual energy costs. A slight increase of € 700 is expected in yearly operating costs with the new system.

Although the payback period is high, the measure was designed with indoor comfort for workers and the environment in mind.