Typical Office Energy Loads (all figures given as PRIMARY energy)

The figures given below represent typical energy use of offices, based on DETR figures published in the 1998 Energy Efficiency Best Practice Programme document entitled "Introduction to Energy Efficiency – Offices".

The data is given for 4 types of office as described beneath the table. The figures include typical energy use for space heating, air-conditioning (if applicable), lighting, office equipment, computers and catering. The first row of data is for an office area heated by fossil fuel (gas or oil boilers serving the office directly or steam/hot water from the main factory boiler). The second row of data is for offices with electric heaters.

Type 1 - Naturally ventilated – mostly cellular

A simple building, often (but not always) relatively small and sometimes in converted residential accommodation. Typical core occupancy is for 48 hours per week (including flexi hours, regular overtime, weekend work, etc).

Type 2 - Naturally ventilated - mostly open-plan

Largely open-plan but with some cellular offices and special areas. Typical core occupancy is for 58 hours per week (including flexi hours, regular overtime, weekend work, etc).

Type 3 - Air-conditioned – standard, mostly open plan

Largely purpose-built. Typical core occupancy is for 62 hours per week (including flexi hours, regular overtime, weekend work, etc).

Type 4 - Air-conditioned – prestige, cellular and open plan

A national or regional head office or technical/administrative centre. Typical core occupancy is for 67 hours per week (including flexi hours, regular overtime, weekend work, etc).