Aquatic centres are typically energy-intensive facilities, but they also present an opportunity to demonstrate leadership in the transition to net zero.
This case study to be presented at ARBS 2026 examines the design of a new all-electric aquatic centre that eliminates on-site fossil fuels through high-efficiency heat pumps, 100% outside air systems, passive design strategies and on-site solar PV.
The project highlights how integrated design, electrification and smart energy management can significantly reduce energy use while maintaining high standards of performance, comfort and safety.
The seminar on day one of the event will be presented by Matt Webb, an experienced built environment sustainability consultant from Introba.
After working in automotive manufacturing, HVAC consulting and in the biotechnology industry, Webb joined Umow Lai Consulting Engineers.
In 2018 he obtained his PhD in Biomimicry (Engineering-Architecture), which focused on biomimetic solutions for building facades and biological thermoregulation, from the University of Melbourne.
In 2022 Webb joined Introba and works with clients to improve sustainability performance through life cycle analysis, energy modelling, design analytics, net zero designs and practical designs for building upgrades and performance management.
His work focuses on quantitative analysis and performance modelling — including energy, comfort, and renewable systems — to deliver data-driven insights that improve the efficiency and resilience of the built environment.
Webb is passionate about regenerative practice, both internally as a framework for personal and professional development and externally as a method for living systems to deliver holistic sustainability outcomes. He is interested in bringing nature-positive methods and frameworks into built environment projects alongside technical innovation and net zero outcomes.