High-rise buildings are increasingly designed with skybridges and interconnected thermal zones, connecting multiple towers or sections to enhance accessibility, structural aesthetics, and shared amenities. While these features improve functionality and visual impact, they present complex challenges for Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) assessments. Standard EPC models assume discrete thermal zones, but skybridges and interconnected areas create dynamic heat transfer, airflow, and energy distribution patterns that complicate accurate evaluation.

Key EPC Challenges

1. Dynamic Thermal Interactions
Skybridges connect different building sections, allowing heat exchange between thermal zones. This can lead to unexpected energy flows that standard EPC modeling software may not capture, affecting heating and cooling demand estimates.

2. Complex HVAC Load Distribution
Shared HVAC systems across interconnected zones may experience uneven loads due to varying occupancy, solar gain, and thermal bridging. Accurate EPC ratings require modeling how energy is distributed and consumed across all connected areas.

3. Heat Loss Through Skybridges
Skybridges often have extensive glazing or lightweight construction, which can result in additional heat loss or gain. EPC calculations must consider these losses for accurate energy efficiency assessment.

4. Ventilation and Airflow Complexity
Interconnected thermal zones alter natural and mechanical ventilation patterns. Air movement between towers can influence indoor air quality, humidity, and energy consumption, which must be accounted for in EPC assessments.

5. Integration with Renewable Energy Systems
Shared roof areas, solar panels, or wind energy systems may supply energy across multiple zones. EPC modeling must accurately reflect how renewable energy contributions are allocated and used across the connected buildings.

Strategies for Accurate EPC Assessment

  • Advanced Thermal Modelling: Use dynamic simulations to capture heat transfer between interconnected zones. Learn more on our About Us page.

  • HVAC Load Analysis: Model the distribution of heating and cooling loads across skybridges and multiple zones. Book an assessment here.

  • Skybridge Thermal Loss Evaluation: Include glazing, insulation, and thermal bridging effects in EPC calculations. Check our services.

  • Airflow and Ventilation Assessment: Analyze inter-zonal air movement to accurately model energy consumption. Learn about our pricing.

  • Renewable Energy Integration: Accurately model shared renewable energy systems across connected zones.

Contact EPC Rate

High-rise buildings with skybridges and interconnected thermal zones require specialized EPC assessment approaches to ensure reliable energy efficiency ratings. For expert consultation and assessments, contact EPC Rate.