Energy efficient new HQ uses recycled plastics from oceans and fishing nets in its new build

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Film-Ocean uses plastic retrieved from the Ocean and fishing nets to furnish its new energy-efficient Head Quarters in Ellon

Film-Ocean Ltd, based in Ellon Aberdeenshire, is absolutely delighted with the progress on its new facilities.

Construction commenced at the start of 2022, with the workshop and ROV test tank in place, the main building framework installed and clad, with construction now focused on internal fit-out and build. Film-Ocean aims to take occupancy of the new site in November 2022.

Film-Ocean's CEO, Scott Jenney, has, from the outset of the design process, set very clear deliverables from an environmental and energy efficiency standpoint, helping the company to achieve its net-zero targets.

The building was designed to exceed the current requirements of building standards, thereby reducing the energy requirement of the facilities through continued improved performance. In addition, constructed to tight tolerances ensure that drafts and air leakage are significantly reduced, improving the building's energy efficiency.

A solar PV array of 36 panels with each one producing a total of 12kw energy will be installed and will feed into the building, contributing to the overall electricity consumption. Thermal insulation was specified to exceed the current requirements, and on completion the building is expected to achieve an A rating.

Scott Jenney said: "It is important to the business that the new facilities can generate enough renewable energy to meet its own annual energy consumption requirements, and with this in mind working closely with our architects, JamStudio Ltd, we’ve identified and introduced some innovative solutions that will enable us to achieve our goals."

Film-Ocean is aiming to be net-zero by 2024. With the new facilities being so energy efficient, and is on track to achieve its energy efficiency key deliverables for the business.

The facilities include an extensive workshop and ROV test tank, which will be able to use the rainwater harvesting system. The system collects rainwater that will then be re-used for jet washing equipment, supplying the wash bay, topping up the ROV test tank, and watering landscaping and planting.

At Film-Ocean creating optimum working conditions for employees has always been important. Therefore, the focus for the new facility has been to look at how it can create a unique working environment for employees, be net zero, and deliver environmental benefits.

This aim has been integral to the specification of the build. Low-energy LED lighting systems will be installed, the system will adapt and respond to light levels throughout the day keeping lighting to an optimum level that provides ideal working conditions.

Where possible the interior fixtures and furniture make use of recycled content; the carpets are made from reclaimed ocean plastics and are 100 per cent recyclable. One carpet is created from nylon found in reclaimed fishing nets that are turned into yarn. Plastics removed from the sea have been used in seating areas, and worktops have been created using recycled timbers and plastic offcuts.

To provide year-round interest for staff and visitors, several living wall installations will be in place, and there will planters on the roof garden. The interior planting will help reduce noise and improve internal acoustics and, at the same time, enhance the working environment for everyone. In addition, the landscaping surrounding the site will include planting numerous indigenous trees.

Scott Jenney, CEO, Film-Ocean said: “As we approach taking occupancy of our new site, I am pleased to see that the designed ideologies that were established and communicated some 3 years ago are now coming to life with the selection of innovative and environmentally friendly products and solutions.

Jenney continued: “As with all aspects of life and business we continue to innovate and evolve, there is more to come, we look forward to sharing our plans to increase our energy independence using additional onsite power generation in the coming months.”