New Packer Avenue warehouse utilieses innovative energy efficiency technology

With very few warehouse developments known to have utilised energy efficiency techniques in their development, the New Packer Avenue warehouse could arguably be one this year’s highlights for warehouse developments using energy efficiency approach, particularly with the electrical proportion of the works.

The brief entailed developing a new high volume packaging and distribution warehouse 330m² floor area and 14m high.  WSP was appointed to service the electrical side including: a 60kVA generator, 400A council supply, electrical reticulation, lighting, smoke detection and high bay fluorescent lighting.

A significant challenge was the fact that various consulting firms were involved in this projects which posed a challenge with regards to co-ordinating all the different services. Through thorough planning and consultations, the respective project team members managed to work simultaneously and uniformly to achieve what was set out on the brief.

Some of the other challenges included:

The client required a channel through an existing council servitude which was adjacent to the property.  This required the relocation and further burial of council services to accommodate the channel.  Obviously this was met with hostility by the council due to the risk of damage to their services, however with significant consultation and detailing the channel was approved and the services relocated.

The client was also required to demonstrate to the City Council that suitable energy efficient fittings and technologies were being used. This was achieved by installing presence detectors within each isle, connected through contactors to their respective lighting circuits.  Energy efficient lamps and fittings were also used as standard.  T5 lamps together with their specific luminaire were used rather than the T8 equivalent and 35W IRC lamps were used in place of the energy consuming 50W Low Voltage down lighters. 

An astronomical timer installed for external lighting assists with energy savings. The astronomical Timer ensures all year round lighting as the lights only come on at dusk and dawn and this will also serve as a security measure during night time.

Environmental restrictions were taken into consideration with regards to plant movement and rehabilitation.

WSP Electrical Engineer,  Lesley Laphi said that in spite of the challenges met (and overcome), there were definitely highlights of working on this project, “One of the highlights was the opportunity to work with a renowned client who has distribution facilities that include production facilities such as Lindt Chocolate in South Africa. Who wouldn’t want to be associated with this high quality, international chocolatier? ”

The project was completed in July 2011.