Installations that keep operating costs low

Substantiated decisions

To make responsible decisions regarding installations, building physics, fire safety and acoustics, the COG worked closely with engineering firm Deerns. They stood by its side throughout the process and steered it towards the lowest possible operating costs. This will allow Dulon College to spend the maximum amount on education after completion. 

Deerns began by conducting feasibility studies. "We made a number of trade-offs focused on those lowest possible operating costs," says Peter Verhaar, Deerns project manager. "That started with energy-efficient construction and installations, which will allow Dulon College to far exceed BENG regulations. We worked out the installation design in accordance with the Fresh Schools, Class B concept. We calculated various concepts for ventilation, heating and cooling. This created an overview in which our clients could see at a glance what these measures would cost and what they would yield over time."

Well-reasoned choices

The feasibility studies led to well-considered choices, including a well-insulated, airtight outer shell, heat/cold storage with heat pumps, LED lighting, solar panels and CO2-controlled ventilation with heat recovery. Extra attention was paid to flexibility. Should education demand a different layout, it could be realized relatively easily. "The beauty of this way of working is that everyone can see what - especially in the long run - are the best decisions. The feasibility studies also prevent users from being guided by the purchase price. This insight provides sustained motivation. Once the decisions were made, everyone stayed behind them."

Aftercare

Schools are a grateful clientele for Deerns. The professionalism of its clients lies in education, which gives Deerns great responsibility. "The transparency gives our relations a vision," he says. Yet it doesn't stop there. Deerns also remains involved during the execution of the installation work. It checks if the execution is done according to the specifications, supports in case of any changes and checks if the installations live up to expectations.