A method of controlling natural air movement to ventilate buildings has been officially recognised as energy-saving and is therefore eligible for the government's Enhanced Capital Allowance Scheme
THE Enhanced Digital Control range developed by natural ventilation solutions supplier Passivent is now approved by the Carbon Trust's Enhanced Capital Allowance (ECA) scheme.

Under the ECA, the full cost of an investment in designated energy-saving plant and equipment can be written off against taxable profits in the first year in which the investment is made. The normal rate of capital allowances for expenditure on plant and machinery is 25% a year on a reducing basis.

ECA accredited goods offer the the following benefits:

· Equipment meets energy-saving criteria resulting in long-term financial benefits

· One hundred per cent first year capital allowance can be claimed

· Their eligibility means they yield a cashflow boost and shortened payback period

· They potentially reduce running costs

· Improved environmental performance for the business with reduced environmental impact

· Tax relief can be claimed on costs directly associated with the ECA product, including installation.

Passivent's Enhanced Digital Controller for zonal applications is programmable to meet the demands of different applications, with separate control of several zones, and a night cooling strategy. In addition to internal and external temperatures, sensors can monitor CO2, air quality and humidity.

Wayne Aston, Passivent's commercial technical manager, explains: 'Building Regulations are increasingly focusing on lowering energy use as well as prevention of overheating within buildings'.

'Low energy natural ventilation is itself increasingly being used to help achieve sustainable and environmentally friendly buildings, but for that to work effectively, it has to be properly controlled, to balance air movement, air quality, daytime heat build-up and night cooling.

'That control needs to be finitely adjustable for each room and still allow occupants to take control of their environment. Our range of controls has been specifically developed to provide this, hence its eligibility for the Enhanced Capital Allowance Scheme.'

www.passivent.com