The future appears to be here following the creation of one of just a handful of first carbon-negative office spaces.
Using a combination of solar panels, wind turbines and water power, the Old Corn Mill, near Penistone in Yorkshire, produces more energy each year than it consumes.
It has an energy performance rating of A+, showing that office spaces can be good for the environment if care is taken during their construction.
The energy efficient serviced office block shows that business can go green with a bit of support.
Mike Tofts, a senior consultant at National Energy Services, which administers the Energy Performance Certificate scheme on behalf of the government, said: “Most existing buildings will be in the D and E bands and brand new buildings built to the latest regulations would normally achieve a B rating.
“So achieving an A+ rating is no mean feat and requires significant investment in energy efficiency measures and renewable generation technologies.”
In Australia, green office buildings are growing in popularity, with Ecotect Architects claiming that their popularity stems from their cost-cutting potential.
