It looked at policies such as a drive to boost home insulation and promote energy efficient boiler installation.
The property owner makes the improvements, like new windows or an energy efficient boiler, and then enjoys the energy savings.
The residence halls, Clarke and Hood, feature six-way zoned heating, energy-efficient boilers, digitally controlled heating systems and ample weather-stripping.
Refurbishment to its Cruciform building (opened in 1906) saved 45 tonnes of carbon per year, while 31 Tavistock Square, a Grade II listed building built in 1826, was revamped using sustainably sourced timber, energy-efficient boilers and low-energy lighting, while 100% of non-hazardous waste is diverted from landfill.
The owners added limestone walls to the kitchen and an energy-efficient boiler.
What's more, 2010 will see the start of the government's new boiler scrappage scheme which will offer qualifying households up to £400 towards the cost of a new energy-efficient boiler.
Refitting a house with double glazing, cavity-wall and loft insulation, a heat pump and an energy-efficient boiler may save another £150, but requires an investment of £3,000 to £8,500.
The hard part, explained Saunders, is reducing the hotels' carbon footprint by investing in things like a more energy-efficient boiler or using local suppliers to cut down on transportation emissions.
Graduate engineers we have recently recruited at Dyson worked on designs including an energy efficient water boiler, a portable solar charger, a micro wind turbine suitable for urban areas, biodegradable cutlery, recycled composites and waste-free disposable nappies.
