The 2009 agreement that saw Nersa granting Eskom a 25% per annum tariff increase over three years points to a further electricity price hike in 2012, following the first two steep increases already implemented. This makes it clear for specifiers and building owners that it is time to implement energy saving.
The inclusion of passive energy efficiency measures in new building projects and retrofits is a clear starting point for all developers thinking sustainability – as early as during the planning and design process for interior environment controls.
“In addition, government and developers need to think about energy efficiency in low cost housing,” says Cecil Homan, founder of Eco-Insulation. “The fitting of solar geysers in many low cost housing projects is an admirable move, but true energy efficiency in low cost housing will only be effective where the roof is fitted with a ceiling that is insulated too,” he says.
Eco-Insulation has been installing additional manufacturing lines at its factory in Montague Gardens, Cape Town, in order to meet the growing market demand for its Eco-Insulation product.
Eco-Insulation is a highly effective insulating material made from recycled cellulose fibre. It is SABS approved and is fire rated “No Spread of Flame” for use in ceilings and cavity walls. It offers among the most efficient coverage in insulation materials: pumped into place it spreads to cover every nook and cranny above the ceiling – and it can be installed even in flat roofs which are otherwise inaccessible to work teams.
Eco-Insulation provides an insulation solution for every climatic zone in South Africa, in accordance with the industry association guidelines. The company offers a professional, turnkey service and installations are carried out by trained installers who focus solely on the Eco-Insulation brand.
“The sound-insulating benefits of the product are also significant,” says Homan. “This is often an important consideration in hotels, retail outlets and other applications where levels of noise need to be controlled and sound absorption is required for effective indoor acoustics.”
By placing Eco-Insulation cellulose fibre ceiling insulation in the roof, the building owner reduces energy consumption for mechanical heating or cooling substantially. “You are also helping to recycle or up-cycle a stream of paper waste, turning it into an upgraded insulation product,” says Homan.
