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LEADING THE WAY TO A CLEAN ENERGY FUTURE: HYDROGEN SOLUTIONS BY NGM
Hydrogen solutions by ngm are at the forefront of the UK’s transition to a clean, sustainable energy future with their innovative hydrogen solutions. By developing and deploying cutting-edge hydrogen technology, hydrogen solutions by ngm is expected to play a pivotal role in the nation’s journey towards net-zero emissions.
A ground-breaking achievement is the pioneering of an industrial kitchen prototype powered solely by hydrogen. This state-of-the-art kitchen produces zero harmful CO2 emissions at the point of combustion and eliminates the risk of deadly carbon monoxide leaks.
Its key features include:
1. Test Facility: A real-world environment that supports the development, installation, and operation
of domestic and commercial hydrogen-related appliances.
2. Showcase: Demonstrations for industry and government stakeholders to understand the safe use of hydrogen and inform decarbonization strategies.
3. Community Project: A partnership with a charity to provide facilities for cooking food on low-carbon hydrogen, supporting local community needs. This kitchen is a world first and marks a significant step forward in hydrogen fuel use.
This allows hydrogen solutions by ngm to engage in critical conversations with policymakers about hydrogen’s future.
Renowned chefs have tested the kitchen, cooking various dishes and confirming the ease of use and consistent food quality. Some chefs even noted that the food cooks faster!
Falcon Food Services, a partner, is already planning pop-up hydrogen kitchens for festivals and other large-scale projects.
Completed in 2024, the model has yet to be replicated industrywide. However, with a high-profile launch on the horizon, hydrogen solutions by ngm is poised to lead the hydrogen revolution.
Part of National Gas Metering, a leading
tepeo wins Ashden Award for outstanding climate innovation
tepeo will receive a grant of £10,000 and other support
tepeo has won the Ashden Award for Energy Innovation (UK). The annual Ashden Awards revealed their 2024 winners at London Climate Action Week, the largest city-wide climate festival in Europe, happening from 22-30 June. Every year, the Ashden Awards highlight inclusive climate solutions – work that creates a fairer world, as well as lowering emissions and preparing communities for climate threats. tepeo was revealed as one of seven winners at the 2024 Ashden Awards, which were celebrated at the Institution of Engineering and Technology in London on 27 June. tepeo was founded in 2018 to give UK households a low cost, low carbon, smart and simple alternative to fossil fuel heating. The company’s efforts to create an efficient thermal storage solution for low carbon heating culminated in the Zero Emission Boiler (ZEB®). This a plug-n-play replacement for existing fossil fuel boilers works with a hot water tank to deliver low carbon and low-cost home heating.
More than 500 organisations applied for the 2024 Ashden Awards and tepeo was one of just two finalists in the Energy Innovation category, securing its place after a rigorous assessment and judging process and input from sector experts, including academics, business leaders, investors and journalists. The Ashden Awards were launched in 2000 and honour innovators from the public, private and non-profit sectors.
tepeo will receive a grant of £10,000 and other support to help them scale-up their work, such as publicity, connection to funders, investors and climate sector leaders.
“Receiving this prestigious cleantech award during London Climate Action Week is a testament to tepeo’s ongoing efforts to decarbonising domestic heating, which currently accounts for nearly a fifth of the UK’s greenhouse gas emissions,” commented Johan du Plessis, CEO & Founder at tepeo. “We believe that
meter asset manager that manages over six million gas assets across the UK. The company is ideally placed to lead the hydrogen revolution and work with business to provide a turn-key solution to enable the smooth and cost effective transition to hydrogen.
Head of Commercial Simon Jamieson remarked, “This is an exciting moment on our hydrogen journey and a testament to how multi-partner collaboration can come together to develop solutions that support energy futures.”
For more information, visit https://metering.nationalgas.com/ services/hydrogen-services or follow National Gas Metering on LinkedIn www.linkedin.com/company/ national-gas-metering
tepeo’s ground-breaking Zero Emission Boiler (ZEB®) technology can be at the forefront of the fight against climate change while also providing an effective tool to tackle fuel poverty in the UK.”
Ashden CEO Dr Ashok Sinha said:
“This year’s Ashden Award winners are worthy champions. They’re tackling the biggest climate challenges, in ways that also create important benefits – like new green jobs and fairer societies. Their inclusive approach is key to their success.
The other two UK winners where Wild Haweswater (Cumbria) for the category Nature Based Solutions and Energise Barnsley (South Yorkshire) for the category People’s Energy.
To learn more about tepeo’s Zero Emission Boiler (ZEB®) visit https://www.tepeo.com/
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DISCOVER THE TECHNOLOGY POWERING THE ENERGY TRANSITION ENERGY TECHNOLOGY LIVE LAUNCHED
To coincide with the exciting growth of the flexible energy sector, Event Partners are delighted to announce the launch of their new Energy Technology Live brand, which features both the existing The Distributed Energy Show and an exciting new event The Energy Storage Show.
Energy Technology Live featuring The Distributed Energy Show and The Energy Storage Show will provide a unique opportunity to discover the technology powering the energy transition, at the largest exhibition space in the UK, the NEC on 12th & 13th March 2025.
Building upon the success of The Distributed Energy Show and introducing the all-new The Energy Storage Show, Energy Technology Live will deliver unparalleled insights into the latest developments in renewable energy integration, smart grids, energy storage, demand-side management, decentralisation, electrification, policy and regulation as well as investment and innovation.
The free to attend event in March 2025 will welcome over 5000 visitors, 200 exhibitors and 150 speakers. With a commitment to innovation, collaboration and sustainability, Energy Technology Live
will serve as the unrivalled platform for industry professionals, thought-leaders, and innovators to explore the latest advancements, trends, and challenges shaping the global energy landscape.
The Energy Storage Show will feature battery and energy storage systems for large-scale applications ranging from utility scale systems through to onsite and domestic technologies. Along with the full systems, the show will feature the components, services and technology to develop, install, operate and maintain them.
The Distributed Energy Show is established as the UK’s leading event for flexible, decentralised energy systems. It is an opportunity for energy users from commercial and industrial sectors, local authorities, property developers and land owners to meet with the energy supply chain
and find technologies and services to implement a flexible energy strategy.
Steve Bryan, Managing Director of Energy Technology Live says, “Energy Technology Live featuring The Distributed Energy Show and The Energy Storage Show will bring together industry stakeholders from around the world for two days of insightful discussions, networking, and innovation. Whether you are a seasoned energy professional, an emerging start-up, or a policymaker driving change, Energy Technology Live offers a unique opportunity to engage with the latest trends, technologies, and strategies shaping the future of the energy market.”
For more information and to find out how your organisation can get involved visit: https://energytechlive.com/
FOCUS ON DELIVERING VALUE
FOR A SUCCESSFUL AND SUSTAINABLE TOMORROW
To engineer a more efficient, safer and sustainable world you need the right steam and thermal energy partner. Whatever your key drivers, Spirax Sarco have you covered.
CLEAN AIR ON CONSTRUCTION SITES CAN BE A THING OF THE FUTURE
Toby Gill, CEO, IPG Energy
While carbon reduction targets have been widely established, there is currently no UK-wide legislative requirement that sets the equivalent targets for pollutant emissions. This is despite the fact that air pollution has been identified as the single largest environmental health risk in Europe, and exposure to even low levels is linked to increased risk of strokes, cancers and premature death.
The construction industry is one sector which has a problem with this, with sites featuring among the highest contributors to poor air quality in London. This is due to the large quantities of PM10, or dust, produced by demolition activities, and additional pollutants NOx, CO and PM2.5 found at lower quantities in the exhaust fumes of non-road mobile machinery (NRMM), such as diesel generators.
To combat the latter, the Construction Leadership Council, author of the Zero Diesel Sites Route Map, has proposed that 78% of diesel plant should be eliminated from UK construction sites by 2035.
A THIRD OF NHS
So what is being done about it?
Some authorities and organisations have set minimum emission standards for NRMM. In London, Air Quality Neutral (AQN) and Air Quality Positive (AQP) guidance is setting air pollution standards for new developments, while the Ultra Low Emission Zone (ULEZ) will require all Non-Road Mobile Machinery (NRMM) to be zero emission by 2040.
Although these targets may seem daunting, the work that has already been done to identify viable solutions for achieving zero carbon construction will make achieving pollution-free sites even easier.
The move towards the electrification of tools and plant machinery, as well as emerging solutions offering a clean, net-zero alternative to the diesel generator for onsite power generation, show that reducing pollutant emissions in the same breath as targeting zero carbon is a real possibility.
One such alternative offering a clean, net-zero alternative to the diesel generator includes renewable generators which employ flameless and/or catalytic combustion technologies. Not only do these technologies, found in fuel cells and fuel-agnostic gensets, produce power without emitting pollutants, they also
TRUSTS
have the additional benefit of reducing carbon emissions due to their compatibility with net-zero and zero-carbon fuels.
It’s time to clear the air
Both solutions enable construction companies to decarbonise their operations and improve the health of their site teams without prioritising one over the other. They are indicative of progress being made within the sector to unlock the transition to cleaner jobsites, and with the help of more ambitious government tenders and national legislation, we can accelerate this transition further still.
The awarding of large tenders presents an opportunity to transform the priority that is placed on pollutant emissions reductions in this process, and see mitigation action for them playing a more prominent role alongside carbon emissions. Driving positive change from the top down in this way will help to bring about change throughout the whole construction value chain. It’s time for construction to set the standard for all industries where fuel-based power is needed and prioritise solutions that solve both the carbon and pollutant problem in the same breath. https://www.ipg.energy/
IN ENGLAND ARE STILL NOT MEASURING THEIR CARBON FOOTPRINT, DESPITE PLEDGES TO REACH NET-ZERO BY 2040
Almost a third (29%) of NHS Trusts in England are still not measuring their carbon footprint, according to Freedom of Information (FOI) data released by Schneider Electric, the leader in the digital transformation of energy management and automation.
This is despite NHS England’s goal to achieve net-zero for direct emissions by 2040 and a further pledge to reach an 80% reduction by 2028 - 2032.
In light of this lack of measurement, it’s unsurprising that the FOI request, which surveyed 58 Trusts, also discovered that one in three (31%) do not yet have a clear roadmap in place to reach net-zero targets.
Investment in a greener NHS
The data reveals that, years on from when NHS England set its net-zero targets in 2020, there have been some developments. In fact:
• 60% of Trusts have upgraded their building systems in an effort be more sustainable.
• Half (48%) have adopted technologies to help them monitor and optimise energy usage.
One in five (19%) have even started implementing circular business practices. This could include the refurbishment and redistribution of certain medical equipment like mobility aids.
Despite these efforts, there is still a long way to go. In fact, Schneider Electric’s FOI highlights that one in five NHS Trusts still get over 90% of their energy from fossil fuels. This is in line with previous NHS data which revealed that it is responsible for around 4% of England’s total carbon footprint and 40% of public sector emissions.
The FOI also reveals that 67% of NHS Trusts have received some level of funding to spend on decarbonisation, suggesting that further improvements are underway. In terms of what this funding has been spent on so far: 40% have used it to install energy efficient technologies and equipment such as LED lighting and HVAC systems.
• One in three (34%) are spending it on upgrading heating, lighting and ventilation systems.
A sixth (16%) are going down the renewable route, investing in solar panels and other sources of renewable energy.
Only one in 10 (12%) are investing in training and awareness programmes.
Kas Mohammed, Schneider Electric UK & Ireland’s VP Digital Energy said: “The NHS is a symbol of national pride for many in the UK. However, it currently faces a significant challenge when it comes to energy consumption and costs. Significant changes need to happen in order to create the sustainable hospital buildings that will drive down energy costs and enable to NHS to meet its net-zero targets, without compromising on patient care. Investment in modern technologies and digital services could enable Trusts to retrofit their buildings and make the NHS more sustainable and resilient for the generations to come.”
https://www.se.com/uk/en/
UK ENERGY TRANSITION: TIME FOR A BRAVE NEW WORLD? OR
WILL IT BE GROUNDHOG DAY?
The new Labour government should be legislating for UK customers to have flexible energy options that reflect the practical, economic, and technical reasoning needed to design and install decarbonising technology for all residential and commercial carbon reduction. Previously, despite electioneering statements by the then Government, UK policy struggled to address the practical, economic, and technical feasibility nuances of the UK building stock and instead touted a heat pump only approach.
Now that a new government is in place an adapted national policy that affects both off and on-grid customers should focus on supplying UK customers with practical, technical, and economic solutions to every individual site.
Additionally, a new Labour government must provide a policy framework that supports a range of cost-effective low carbon fuels capable of efficient performance and carbon reduction. The government must also focus on an open and transparent collaborative approach with all facets of the power and energy industry so that all nuanced building envelopes can transition towards a low carbon future.
One way in which a new Labour government will be measured in terms of performance and commitment within UK energy is the direction of off-grid fuels and appliances.
There are approximately 1.65 million non-domestic buildings in England and Wales according to the last official report a few years ago. Non-domestic buildings are defined as buildings which are not used as homes. Therefore, these buildings are diverse in size and structure and include commercial and public premises. Half (48%) of the NDCs surveyed used a form of electric heating on their premises whilst 30% had an oil boiler and 12% had an LPG boiler.
Of these approximately 280,000 are in areas not connected to the gas grid, and many of these use either oil, liquified petroleum gas (LPG), or coal powered heating systems to heat their buildings. The phasing out of fossil fuel installations in non-domestic buildings will therefore require a significant increase in the deployment of low carbon heating solutions, such as hybrid heating & hot water systems.
Rinnai’s Chris Goggin looks at what the new Government will face in establishing and re-organising a coherent set of policies to enable the realistic achievement of NetZero in a pragmatic, economic and technically feasible manner. He will look at the current policy for off-grid properties as an example. And explore the alternative fuels coming onstream such as BioLPG and rDME.
On the residential part of this sector there are an estimated 4.4 million households across the UK not connected to the gas grid in 2021, accounting for 15.1% of domestic properties, a sizable proportion of UK housing stock. Heat pumps are a viable carbon reducing technology capable of covering a sizable percentage of UK decarbonisation targets but are unlikely to satisfy rural customers due to a lack of insulation and other technical issues in older off-grid properties. Rather than replacing a boiler or commercial water heating system and purchasing a heat pump, there are alternative ways to provide heat and hot water to off-grid properties. Drop in
solutions such as BioLPG and future fuels such as r-DME mean that boilers and water heaters do not have to be replaced. Gaseous systems that accept fossil fuels are also capable of receiving biofuels as legitimate energies.
Future capacity of r-DME and other alternative biofuels are set to rise sharply in an approaching period further increasing the likelihood of this fuel being introduced nationally at some stage soon.
Off-grid UK residents are in an identical position to all other owners of residential and commercial properties in a requirement to decarbonise. As with all other domiciles and business premises that
are off grid the UK government needs to implement a nationwide plan that is designed to ensure the quickest and cleanest route towards carbon reduction.
Current proposals insist all fossil fuel and LPG domestic boilers and commercial water heaters that provide heat and hot water to off-grid domiciles and commercial properties will be banned from 2035. In replacement of traditional boilers, the new UK government, instead, suggests that a heat pump is the preferred method of clean energy off-grid heating and hot water. This policy approach unfortunately does little to address those hard to abate properties that are seemingly left with no technical, practical or economically feasible solution. There have been huge investments, on a global scale, of billions of dollars and euros in synthetic and alternative fuels for off-grid.
For example, Dimeta – a collaborative effort by two of the world’s leading LPG (Liquefied Petroleum Gas) distributors, SHV Energy and UGI International – is constructing a £150 million renewable & recycled carbon DME production plant in Teesside, northeast UK. Once operational the plant will produce over 50,000 tonnes of DME from non-recyclable waste – the
equivalent of 25% of LPG domestic heating in the UK.
In addition to the first plant in the UK, subsequent plants are in development in Europe and the United States, as part of Dimeta’s goal to achieve 300,000 tonnes of DME production capacity by 2027.
American gas and electric company UGI and Dutch global LGP and LNG distributor SHV Energy said last year that they plan to construct up to six plants over the next five years with a total production capacity of 300,000 t of r-DME. Total investment could reach $1billion if r-DME production facilities are constructed across Europe and America.
explore blending DME with LPG and used in existing appliances. Dimeta and Rinnai will also aim to develop 100% DME dedicated appliances, including hot water production systems, boilers and dryers.
Rinnai and Dimeta are working together to design and produce offgrid energy and hot water supplies to properties not connected to the UK national grid. Rinnai is sensitive to both national and global shifts in customer and energy market requirements.
Rinnai and Dimeta have also signed a MOU (Memorandum of Understanding). Both companies will work together to
Rinnai aims to supply all UK customers with updated information pertaining to all energy matters that may affect future domestic and commercial decarbonising options.
To find out more about the changing face of future fuels sign up to the Rinnai pathways newsletter www.rinnai-uk.co.uk/contact-us/ newsletter-sign
REMOVING THE BARRIERS TO THE ENERGY TRANSITION – a call for creativity and innovation
A lack of competition in the UK’s electricity transmission and distribution networks is preventing the energy transition advancing at the pace it must. Here’s how Spencer Thompson, CEO at Eclipse Power suggests we remove the bottleneck.
Upgrading electricity grids is essential for the energy transition. Built in the 1950s and 60s, the UK’s grid has grown steadily – but not dramatically – over the decades. Since the transition from centralised electricity generated using fossil fuels towards distributed energy assets using renewable generation and energy storage got underway, its growth has sky-rocketed to such an extent that it is struggling to keep up. The inevitable knock-on effect is a massive queue of connections that are essential to power the transition, and no apparent way through the impasse.
The transition from fossil fuels means that instead of connecting large power stations to the grid we are now connecting solar, wind, hydrogen and battery storage, electric vehicle (EV) charging hubs and electrifying hundreds of thousands of industrial, commercial and domestic assets.
Inevitably, expansion at this scale presents a range of challenges. The biggest of which is grid congestion. Across transmission and distribution networks, there is around 700 GW of projects awaiting grid connection in the UK. An unprecedented amount, which is only likely to grow.
Transmission operators expect to see under a quarter of projects being connected. Ofgem, government and ESO forecasts point to the UK needing 200 GW of capacity to support the energy transition. That means only a fraction of the 700 GW pipeline of projects will actually connect.
There are also challenges around the transmission of power from where it’s generated to where it’s needed. Solar, wind and hydro renewable generation plants are seldom close to where the energy is consumed – our towns, cities and industrial areas.
Any energy transition project connections involve planning permission, equipment and funding.
Obtaining planning consent and connection permissions call for skill, experience and innovative thinking. There are plenty of people who don’t want infrastructure in their backyards and the net zero energy transition story doesn’t always land with local authorities. What’s more, projects above 100 MW need national planning approvals from the Secretary of State. Whether at a local or national level, planning can present a significant risk that delays energy transition projects.
ENCOURAGING INVESTMENT CAN UNLOCK OPPORTUNITY
The transition is huge and will span 30 years or more. It presents attractive opportunities to invest in infrastructure that will deliver sustainable returns on assets for a 20-40-year period.
While 2050 net zero targets have helped stimulate private and global investment in infrastructure development, they will only do so when the revenue model is right. Even with the right kind of adjustments, there are still grid congestion, transmission and planning issues to overcome.
Addressing these challenges needs better and faster ways to connect to the grid and, crucially, designing revenue models that are attractive for investors.
INNOVATIVE THINKING DRIVES ACTION
The fundamental thing we need to overcome these challenges is more innovation across technology, the regulatory environment and business models. The good news is that this innovation is happening today, and it is enabling investment opportunities in grid infrastructure and smart grids.
The traditional business model is predicated on giving a Capex subsidy to customers connecting to the grid. Rising costs and timelines to connect to the grid can encourage additional renewable investor revenue models to move projects from borderline investment to a healthy investment that can move on to construction.
An Independent Distribution Network Operator (IDNO) can pay an asset value to a customer who joins its network. When an IDNO owns and manages the customer’s electricity network the IRR improves to a significant level of 7-10%. Elevating the IRR can move a stalling project back into the ‘green’, which means it’s not holding up the grid connection queue anymore.
We are also seeing more ‘gigawatt’ investors interested in mixed developments that combine technologies like solar and wind, battery storage, green hydrogen generation, EV charging hubs, even data centres. In fact, any asset that can enable selfconsumption of energy generated on-site. Co-locating these assets enables customers to maximise their revenue streams while easing demands on the grid connection. Because this kind of grid connection reduces grid infrastructure, it can make the connection process faster and cheaper.
TECHNOLOGY GETS SMARTER
To realise value in a mixed technology microgrid project, a developer or investor will secure land parcels close to a national grid connection or Distribution Network Operator (DNO) substation and build a high voltage (HV) network. By making the network smart – for example, by incorporating load management and asset control – they can realise more value by trading flexibility in their network in the capacity and ancillary markets.
Smart technology is also the key to really utilising all the capacity in the network as efficiently as possible. Optimising the use of existing network capacity reduces the need to develop more capacity. For example, storing energy to meet demand at peak times means there is less need to build new generators.
Smart grids have been talked about for a long time. Now we are seeing technology companies evolve the smart grid concept to enable investment funds and asset owners to participate in new energy markets around the world.
Energy flexibility platforms like Kraken Flex offered by Octopus Group, enable distributed energy resources to be connected and controlled to automate dispatches for real-time trading, ancillary markets and intelligent customer tariffs.
INNOVATING TRANSMISSION
There is also increasing innovation within the transmission sector. While generators are encouraged to connect their assets closer to demand centres like the South-East, planning inevitably gets in the way because of the distance between London and the wind farms in the North Sea and Scotland. To get around these onshore restrictions, developers are increasingly looking to offshore submarine cable interconnectors. Interconnectors from Glasgow to Liverpool, the new Viking link between Lincolnshire and Denmark, and planned interconnectors from Edinburgh to the Humber and others to Ireland and the Netherlands make the prospect of an offshore transmission network a reality.
THE DYNAMIC FOR CHANGE
However, as yet the three regional monopolies that control the GB transmission market aren’t structured to deliver the agility and innovation that the energy transition needs. Innovation in transmission networks is crying out for more competition to drive regulatory and industry change. This would enable customers to connect to the network faster and more efficiently. We are seeing the distribution market lead the way in this regard. It has been well and truly shaken up by awarding licenses to a handful of IDNOs alongside traditional regional Distribution Network Operators. This could potentially be a route for the transmission sector to remove bottlenecks and release the full potential for achieving the energy transition. It will take a more creative and innovative approach to regulation, materials and funding, but isn’t that what provides the dynamic for change? And change is what we need in this market to make net zero a reality. eclipsepower.co.uk
Championing Scotland’s
goals
We’re committed to reducing carbon emissions and delivering energy saving measures for Scotland
Our teams support Scottish Government to help local authorities, universities and arm’s length external organisations and more to decarbonise their buildings.
See our website for information about our work including:
› The Recycling Fund
› Scotland’s Public Sector Heat Decarbonisation Fund
› The Scottish Public Sector Energy Efficiency Loan Scheme
› Scottish Funding Council schemes
DISTRIBUTED ENERGY CAN BE A BIG WIN
With the political parties pussyfooting around net zero claims, a more robust approach to accelerating the roll-out of solar is critical to driving confidence around achieving decarbonisation goals without burdening the taxpayer.
We are witnessing a ‘solar revolution’ in the UK, according to energy think tank Ember.1 Rooftop deployment is seemingly booming, with more than 190,000 installations carried out in 2023 alone.2 The Microgeneration Certification Scheme (MCS) suggests that 2024 will likely see the sector’s 13th year of continued incremental growth, while forecasts from SolarPower Europe predict a staggering 22% increase in annual demand. However, affirmative policy action is needed to capitalise on this momentum and realise the full impact that solar can deliver for the UK’s energy transition.
Putting renewable generation at (or near) the point of consumption is by far one of the cheapest and most efficient forms of energy available. Today, technological progress and maturing funding models are making on-site solar increasingly simple for businesses, offering the potential to significantly reduce carbon without resorting to subsidies.
Two elements are essential to achieving this. Firstly, learn from other European markets when it comes to accelerating the adoption of collective self-consumption, which could prove a game-changer when it comes to tackling local grid constraints and unlocking stranded projects. Secondly, we need to see clarity and proactivity when it comes to government support for smaller business customers, which would enable access to cleaner, greener, cheaper on-site energy.
John Behan, CEO of AMPYR Distributed Energy (ADE) said: “We are talking to businesses every day who can see the advantages of solar to drive down energy costs, increase supply security and deliver measurable decarbonisation progress. However, there is significant pent-up demand for solar deployment, so a key Government focus should be on policies that put solar front and centre of the smart grid transition and the future energy systems we need to meet net zero.
“While energy security, decarbonisation and sustainability are referenced in each of the main parties’ manifestoes, the lack of direction on policies to accelerate solar needs to be addressed urgently.
“While improving grid connectivity is already high on the agenda, there also needs to be more joined up thinking and stronger communications to unleash the potential of on-site renewable generation for businesses in the UK. Distributed energy aligns with the need for investment in the UK’s property infrastructure, including energy efficiency, carbon reporting, and enabling decentralised energy solutions with clear market reform.
“Countries in Europe, such as Spain, are empowering communities with clear legal frameworks for community self-consumption schemes, where residents in flats, for example, can confidently sign up to shared rooftop solar schemes that can not only reduce reliance on the grid and lower energy bills, but also create opportunities for selling back to the grid when surplus is generated. Models such as these, which are now tried and tested, can inform the transformation of our own systems to take full advantage of the potential of renewable energy.
“Commercial properties across Europe are also engaged in collective self-consumption. Rather than simply harnessing self-generated green energy and exporting surplus, this sees sites encouraged to trade with neighbouring buildings that don’t have access to renewable energy generation capabilities.”
With many solar arrays specified to deliver a material portion of on-site energy consumption, accelerating pathways to increase this percentage will maximise the value of distributed energy across the UK. From an economic perspective, local communities and businesses can share the benefits of low-cost renewable power. From an environmental perspective, it reduces pressure on centralised energy supply, instead creating flexible community microgrids.
But what about those often forgotten about by policymakers? Miles Thomas, CCO at ADE, added: “For smaller, or poorer credit business customers, we need to find work arounds to unlock cleaner, greener, cheaper on-site energy supply. This is key to enabling solar, at scale, for everyone and accelerating progress towards the UK’s net zero energy landscape of tomorrow.
“In my opinion, we could approach this in a similar way to the real estate sector; using government-backed leases in selected
areas to support commercial development and catalyse regeneration areas where leases are short, or covenants aren’t of sufficient quality to support investment and development. Government support to achieve this, however, is critical – this isn’t direct subsidy, it’s support, keeping capital costs low and energy prices at levels which provide real benefit to those businesses that need it most.”
John Behan, CEO of AMPYR Distributed Energy (ADE)
As one of the key enablers to a low carbon energy future, the outlook for solar is clearly positive. However, if we really are to rely on home grown energy, we need to see far greater government ambition. Alongside clarity regarding the planning system, this includes revolutionising the way networks deal with solar and storage, upskilling the UK workforce and ensuring that the market framework is fit for purpose.
Behan concluded: “The UK needs to push the day-to-day of distributed energy firmly up the agenda. Mandating the inclusion of solar panels on all new commercial buildings is a sensible step forward, but most of the buildings that will exist in 2030 are already built, so bold policies that can support retrofitting on all buildings and, more importantly, for all commercial and industrial consumers, should be central to any new government’s charge towards net zero. Bold action has been taken in France where solar canopies are now required in all large car parks, we could take a similar approach in the UK.
“More accountability around carbon reporting, as well as a step-change when it comes to mandatory energy efficiency measures beholden to commercial properties, all have a vital role to play. Net zero requires a massive investment in property infrastructure, a more joined-up approach really is just common sense.
“Ultimately, energy security is no short-term game and we must continue to identify new and innovative solutions to accelerate progress towards net zero. Once the dust settles, I’d like to see a step-change in enthusiasm, ambition and commitment when it comes to renewable energy. Assuaging the concerns of the industry is a good start, but progress, clarity and decision-making must be proactive, rather than a last resort.”
For more information about AMPYR Distributed Energy, visit www.ampyrde.com
REDUCING RED TAPE: WHY POLICY CLARITY IS CRUCIAL TO UNLOCKING THE NET ZERO POTENTIAL OF BUSINESSES
Anthony Ainsworth, Chief Operating Officer, npower Business Solutions
For more than two years, many UK organisations have been at the mercy of the volatile wholesale energy markets, with multiple factors resulting in increased costs at a time when the recovery from the Covid-19 pandemic was still ongoing.
Today, while prices remain higher than pre-crisis, the good news is that they seem to be on a downward trajectory, with our team reporting three-year lows.
However, as we welcome a new Labour government into Number 10 Downing Street, there is no doubt that a big challenge lies ahead. While one of its core pledges is to ‘Make Britain a Clean Energy Superpower’, and its key priorities include reforming the planning system, particularly to remove the previous ‘de facto’ ban on onshore wind, these things are easier said than done. And, they will take time.
However, if the new Labour administration is successful in its mission to reduce red tape, particularly around energy infrastructure, then it could unlock a huge amount of net zero potential from both the UK public and private sectors.
This was one of the core themes that emerged from our latest Business Energy Tracker report. In it, we asked large business energy users for their views on energy risk, how they are managing this risk and their views on net zero. We also asked them what they wanted to see from the new government. They told us that more can be done to support them, with the need for policy clarity to help them make the necessary investments to support the energy and net zero transition coming out loud and clear.
THE TOP THREE ASKS WERE:
1. Support to help organisations to reduce overall energy demand, such as grants or tax breaks for installing energy efficiency measures and on-site generation, and investing in energy management platforms, so they can better manage their demand, reduce emissions and reinvest in their operations. This is something we have long campaigned for and needs to be a key priority for the new government.
2. Reduction in non-commodity costs. Over the past few years, the level of costs applied to business invoices has increased significantly. For example, the non-commodity elements added to electricity invoices have risen from around £100 per MWh in Q1 2023, to £112 in Q1 2024 – and are set to jump to around £132 by Q4 2025. While this is being reviewed by Ofgem, businesses also want it to be a key priority for the government, to both reduce and simplify what they pay. While they know that some of these costs are necessary, they believe this is where red tape could be reduced, for example, by having one overall cost to pay.
3. Reduction in red tape to help renewables schemes successfully meet local planning procedures. While accelerating the deployment of renewable energy is crucial to meeting the UK’s net zero targets, many schemes get caught up in red tape, planning rules and delays to grid connections. As the new government has recognised, removing these barriers will enable more schemes to progress, so we will wait with interest to see how these reforms translate into real life applications.
JOIN THE RED TAPE CHALLENGE
Both public and private organisations will be crucial to delivering the UK’s energy security and net zero targets. That is why it is important that their voices are heard at the highest level.
This year is a perfect opportunity to work with the new government to inform them which energy and net zero policies do - and don’twork for business energy users.
This is why we have launched a new campaign - the Red Tape Challenge. This is a movement that brings together the collective voices of organisations, partners and stakeholders to tell the government what they need to achieve their ambitions.
We are asking organisations to join our campaign to help shape policy and give them the confidence to make the vital investments for net zero, and keep the UK on track to meet our sustainability and energy security targets.
This is your chance to tell us about your own challenges with red tape, and which policies are helping or hindering your business. You can have your say here: https://bit.ly/nbs_redtape_em By working together with the government, we can accelerate towards our energy and net zero ambitions. The 2024 Business Energy Tracker is available at npowerbusinesssolutions.com/ businessconfidence2024
NAVIGATING THE EVOLVING ENERGY LANDSCAPE
Chris Maclean, CEO, True, powered by Open Energy Market
In today’s energy market, UK businesses face multiple operational, commercial, and sustainability-driven challenges and opportunities. Recent developments, such as Europe’s abundant gas supplies leading to lower wholesale prices, have sparked talks of resolving the energy crisis. But underlying economic issues suggest a more complex reality, reinforcing the urgency behind why businesses must adopt more strategic approaches to energy procurement.
ASSESSING THE ENERGY MARKET
Thomas Marzec-Manser, Head of Gas Analytics, Independent Commodity Intelligence Services (ICIS), recently warned against jumping to conclusions about the end of the energy crisis. Economic challenges persist, and while energy markets might seem stable, there are hidden vulnerabilities.
The ongoing cost of living crisis has led to reduced consumer spending, impacting industries like hospitality. Additionally, the manufacturing and production sectors, both essential for economic growth, have faced operational challenges amidst supply chain disruptions and rising input costs. This subdued demand, coupled with lingering concerns over geopolitical tensions and supply chain bottlenecks – particularly in regions crucial for energy production and transportation – underscores the volatility of the energy market.
It’s a timely reminder for businesses to take a forward-thinking approach to energy management. By closely monitoring market trends, identifying emerging risks, and implementing robust risk mitigation strategies, organisations can better navigate the evolving energy landscape.
EMBRACING SMART
ENERGY MANAGEMENT
Effective energy procurement is vital for financial stability and operational resilience. By anticipating market trends and seizing opportunities to make the energy market work in their favour, businesses can optimise energy costs while ensuring a reliable supply. This proactive approach enables businesses to mitigate the impact of price fluctuations, minimise exposure to market volatility, and maintain budget predictability.
PROMOTING SUSTAINABILITY THROUGH RENEWABLE ENERGY STRATEGIES
In addition to driving financial savings and enhancing operational resilience, strategic energy procurement plays a crucial role in advancing sustainability goals for businesses. By adopting proactive strategies that prioritise renewable energy sources, organisations can significantly reduce their carbon footprint.
One key way that strategic energy procurement promotes sustainability is through leveraging power purchase agreements (PPAs). PPAs are contractual agreements between energy buyers and sellers.
In a physical PPA, the buyer purchases electricity directly from a renewable energy generator and receives delivery of energy to its facilities. In a financial PPA, the buyer does not take physical delivery of the electricity but instead enters into a financial agreement with a renewable energy generator to purchase renewable energy certificates (RECs) or guarantees of origin (GOs) associated with the renewable energy production. The buyer receives financial benefits in the form of renewable energy credits, which can be used to offset their grid-based energy consumption or demonstrate their commitment to renewable energy procurement.
PPAs offer several key benefits for energy buyers including price stability, cost savings, bolstered environmental credentials, and risk mitigation. Put simply, PPAs offer a flexible and customisable mechanism for businesses to access renewable energy, achieve their sustainability objectives, realise financial benefits and minimise operational risks.
THE OPEN PERFORMANCE FUND (OPF): A LONGER-TERM PLAY
Trading energy in the market is an option for businesses with high energy consumption, but it’s complex and risky. For medium to large enterprises looking for a simpler and more reliable solution, the Open Performance Fund (OPF) is a great choice.
The OPF is a long-term buying strategy designed to secure sustainable cost savings and reduce trading risks over time.
One of its key features is its consistent outperformance in energy cost savings compared to the broader market. In fact, the OPF consistently surpasses the 12-month rolling market average across both gas and power markets.
Besides cost savings, the specialists behind the OPF also help to simplify energy procurement by handling market monitoring, decision-making, and execution, allowing businesses to focus on their core operations with peace of mind.
STRATEGIC ENERGY PROCUREMENT AND SUSTAINABILITY IN PRACTICE
One organisation that has successfully navigated the complexities of the energy market is Shepherd Neame, Britain’s oldest brewer. Over the past four years, Shepherd Neame has partnered with True to optimise its energy procurement strategies and drive significant cost savings.
Through strategic energy procurement and participation in the OPF, Shepherd Neame has achieved remarkable savings of 49.9 percent against the average price of energy. This translates to millions of pounds in savings over four years, enabling Shepherd Neame to reinvest in its operations and sustainability initiatives.
In doing so, Shepherd Neame is driving operational efficiencies while reducing its carbon footprint. The brewery’s holistic approach to sustainability can serve as a blueprint for businesses looking to balance commercial growth with environmental responsibility.
STAYING ONE STEP AHEAD
As the energy landscape evolves, businesses must be proactive in their energy procurement strategies. By staying ahead of market uncertainties and embracing sustainability, they can achieve financial resilience and environmental stewardship simultaneously.
For more information about True, powered by Open Energy Market, visit https://www.truezero.tech/
STRATEGIC UTILITY MANAGEMENT IN A CHANGING LANDSCAPE AT BUU LIVE! MEUC’S AUTUMN CONFERENCE AND EXHIBITION
Mark your calendars for 16 October 2024 as the Major Energy Users’ Council (MEUC) returns this Autumn to the Advanced Manufacturing and Technology Centre (AMTC) in Coventry. This must-attend event is vital for energy purchasers and managers seeking to stay ahead in this continually volatile sector.
WHY SHOULD YOU ATTEND?
• Comprehensive Agenda: Key sessions throughout the day will cover strategic utility management, data-driven efficiency strategies, and adapting to regulatory changes. As the energy landscape evolves, staying ahead of market dynamics and regulatory changes is crucial.
• Focussed Exhibition: The exhibition will feature leading companies and solution providers displaying innovative products and services. Delegates can explore cuttingedge solutions and discuss their applications in a relaxed environment designed to enhance your energy management practices.
• Networking Opportunities: Connect with peers, industry experts, and key stakeholders. The event provides a unique platform to build professional relationships, exchange ideas, and explore potential collaborations.
“ “
MEUC consistently provides high-quality events that bring together major energy consumers with expert professionals to address the energy trilemma of cost, sustainability, and security. — K
• Exclusive Access and Expert Care: Attendance is reserved for end users, invited guests, and exhibitors/ supporters, ensuring a focused and relevant experience. MEUC takes great care of its delegates, providing all refreshments and lunch at no cost, ensuring a comfortable and engaging experience from start to finish.
• Proven Experience: With over 35 years of expertise in hosting industry events, MEUC has perfected the art of delivering high-quality conferences tailored to the needs of energy managers. Our experience guarantees a valuable and seamless event for all attendees.
AGENDA HIGHLIGHTS
SESSION 1: PRICES, REGULATION AND MARKET DYNAMICS FOR ENERGY AND WATER
Kick off the conference by understanding and adapting to market conditions in a changing landscape. Topics include energy prices, regulatory strategies, and the challenges faced by water companies. This session is crucial for anyone involved in managing energy and water procurement.
SESSION 2: RISK AND REWARD? YOUR FUTURE ENERGY CONSUMPTION MAPPED OUT
This session focuses on effective risk management strategies, enhancing supply security through power purchase agreements (PPAs), and integrating onsite generation and storage solutions. Learn how to align your energy strategies with sustainability goals and navigate the volatility of energy prices.
SESSION 3: THE FUTURE OF ENERGY: MANAGEMENT AND INNOVATION
Explore the evolution of energy markets and technological advancements. Key discussions will include smart energy solutions for industrial applications, the role of interconnectors in achieving net zero, and strategies for building resilient energy systems over the next decade.
SESSION 4: EMERGING TRENDS AND PRACTICAL APPLICATIONS IN ENERGY AND WATER MANAGEMENT
Dive into the latest trends and technologies shaping the future of energy and water management. Participate in interactive break-out sessions led by MEUC experts, focusing on both energy and water management strategies. This session offers practical insights and actionable strategies for improving efficiency and reducing costs.
LOCATION
The AMTC, located in the heart of Ansty Business Park, Coventry. Its state-of-the-art facilities enhance the overall experience, ensuring that attendees gain maximum value from this day away from the office. Don’t miss this opportunity to advance your expertise and connect with the energy sector’s best. Register now for the MEUC Autumn Conference and Exhibition. Visit the MEUC website for more information and to secure your spot. Join us in Coventry this October and take a decisive step towards leading the future of energy management. Register at: https://meucnetwork.co.uk/ events/autumn-conf24/
EMEX, THE ENERGY MANAGEMENT AND NET ZERO EXHIBITION, RETURNS TO LONDON’S EXCEL
Coming into this year, the EMEX team felt it was important to take a step back and really understand what visitors see the event standing for. It became clear that there are three pillars that EMEX proudly stands by: solutions, innovation and implementation, and it is these attributes that set it apart from other events in the energy management space. Throughout every aspect of the show, EMEX gives its visitors real answers to their challenges, whether it’s via practical case studies on the conference programme, getting hands-on with the latest technology demonstrated by exhibitors, or making new connections and understanding how they have overcome similar issues within their businesses.
With this in mind, EMEX is committed to offering visitors solutions-focused content and this year sees even more brand new free-to-attend features appearing at the show. BSI Group are offering free, 30-minute CPD-accredited training sessions throughout both days of the show: Introduction to Energy Management ISO 50001, Introduction to Environmental Management ISO 14001 and Introduction to Net Zero. BSI Group is the national standards body of the UK and getting free access to their accredited training is an opportunity not to be missed. These training courses are an excellent way to improve your knowledge if you are new to this field or if you want to build further on what you already know.
Also new for 2024 are free workshops led by top industry experts. These fully interactive sessions are designed to demonstrate practical strategies for achieving key goals in energy management and carbon reduction. This is an unmissable opportunity to gain valuable insights and hands-on experience with companies such as Carbonology. Further details of the different focus areas of the workshops can be found on the EMEX website and places can be reserved when show registration opens in August.
This year, EMEX is delighted to welcome IEMA (Institute of Environmental Management and Assessment), a
global body for environment and sustainability professionals, as hosts of exclusive peer mentoring sessions. Aimed at energy managers who may be new to their field or those who simply feel they would benefit from speaking with a more experienced associate, this is a valuable opportunity to network, gain professional advice and learn from senior IEMA members, all highly skilled in the energy transition field.
developing technology is helping to reach sustainability goals. Whether you’re just starting out or looking for the right product for the next step of your journey, the busy show floor is the place to be.
Once again, the conference programme hosted across four different theatres is jam-packed with some of the foremost thought-leaders in the space, as well as a huge range of practical case studies from those who are hands-on in the implementation of creating an energy efficient future. Led by Lord Rupert Redesdale, a key voice within government on the issue of sustainability, over 130 expert speakers will be presenting a range of panel discussions, technical and innovation showcase sessions, learnings and advice to visitors on how to move forward with their own net zero agenda. The four conference areas cover: Energy and Carbon Management Strategy, Sustainability and Net Zero, Built Environment and Transport and Energy Future and Flexible Networks, meaning there really is something for everyone. Check out the event website for further details of all the sessions as they are released. www.emexlondon.com
Returning for 2024 are the highly popular Public Sector Roundtable Networking Meetings. Exclusively for those working in the public sector, these discussion groups are a unique opportunity to shape the future of net zero within small, impactful groups.
Many of the 100+ exhibiting companies at EMEX are showcasing new and innovative energy efficient solutions. This is a real opportunity to be amongst the first to see how rapidly
Of course, many visitors come to EMEX each year to grow their professional networks. Whether it’s informal chats over a coffee, or a prearranged meeting in one of the expo’s many break-out areas, having the largest gathering of energy managers in one place means you can make the right connections for the next twelve months over just two days!
EMEX welcomes over 4,000 visitors from the smallest companies to the largest multi-nationals, from limited budgets to those who have millions to invest in sustainability solutions and from across the wide spectrum of both the private and public sectors – there really is something for everyone who walks through the doors. Typically attracting the majority of visitors from within energy management or environment and sustainability roles, whether you’re coming to source products and equipment, conduct meetings with industry peers or acquire knowledge and best practice learnings from the educational agenda, EMEX is the place for you.
Don’t forget that registration is completely FREE and gives you access to all of these features and more.
Register your interest in attending now ahead of visitor registration opening in August: www.emexlondon.com/ register-interest
UNLOCKING CLEAN ENERGY TRANSITIONS; OPTIMISING STEAM SYSTEMS FOR EFFICIENCY AND COST REDUCTION
by
In the landscape of clean energy transitions, energy efficiency emerges as the unsung hero, often referred to as the “first fuel.”
It not only presents one of the swiftest and most economical ways to mitigate CO2 emissions but also holds the potential to slash energy bills and strengthen energy security.
But what exactly is the role of energy efficiency in clean energy transitions?
Energy efficiency stands as the cornerstone in the endeavour to curb energy demand, particularly in scenarios aiming for Net Zero Emissions by 2050. By implementing efficiency measures across various sectors, we can significantly reduce the need for energy consumption while simultaneously curbing greenhouse gas emissions. Moreover, these measures translate into tangible cost savings for consumers, serving as a buffer against unforeseen price fluctuations.
However, the path ahead is not without its challenges.
Despite recent increases in efficiency investments, the pace of global energy intensity improvements has hit a plateau. Progress notably decelerated in the latter half of the previous decade and came to
a virtual standstill during the initial years of the Covid-19 pandemic. To effectively navigate towards net zero emissions, it’s imperative to ramp up efforts and double the global pace of energy efficiency progress throughout this decade.
However! Let’s focus on optimising steam systems – a crucial yet often overlooked component in the realm of energy efficiency.
Steam systems, critical in industrial settings, play a pivotal role in processes ranging from heating to power generation. However, these systems can be known for their energy inefficiencies, often resulting in significant energy losses and inflated operational costs.
By optimising steam systems, we can unlock a myriad of benefits:
Improved efficiency; Fine-tuning steam systems through measures such as insulation upgrades, steam trap maintenance, and boiler tuning can substantially enhance overall system efficiency. This translates into lower energy consumption and reduced greenhouse gas emissions.
Cost reduction; Enhanced efficiency directly translates into cost savings for businesses. By minimising energy waste and maximising output, companies
can slash their operational expenses and boost their bottom line.
Enhanced Reliability; Optimal steam systems operate more reliably, reducing downtime and enhancing productivity. This ensures smoother operations and minimises disruptions to production schedules.
Environmental Impact; By reducing energy consumption and emissions associated with steam production, optimised steam systems contribute to broader sustainability goals, aligning with clean energy transition objectives.
In conclusion, optimising steam systems represents a tangible and impactful way to drive energy efficiency improvements and advance clean energy transitions. By harnessing the potential of these systems, we can not only benefit from energy savings, and reduced costs but also make significant strides towards achieving a sustainable, low-carbon future. Let’s seize this opportunity to propel our journey towards a cleaner, greener tomorrow.
THE POWER OF CLEAN ENERGY: TRANSFORMING HEALTH AND THE ENVIRONMENT
When considering the challenges we face globally, health and sustainability are never far from the top of the agenda. In fact, they are very closely linked. For every degree of global warming, our life expectancy will shrink by nearly six months, according to a 2024 study published in PLOS Climate. The same research notes that, between 2030 and 2050, climate change is expected to cause approximately 250,000 deaths annually. With such an intrinsic link between health and the environment, it becomes apparent that sustainable solutions don’t just tackle the concerns of our planet, but its people too.
Health risks aren’t just identified by life expectancy. The link between air quality and respiratory conditions has been well established – other links have been drawn to include stroke, ischemic heart disease, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease and lung cancer – whether through increases in blood pressure through the body working harder to lower core temperatures, or extreme heat rising heart rates and blood pressures. This list of conditions is only really the start and underscores the need for actions to improve the health of people and planet.
Decarbonization, the core of climate change mitigation, therefore also presents a solution to improve the world’s health. The combination of electrification and digitization, what we at Schneider Electric call Electricity 4.0, will improve public health, efficiency, resilience, accessibility and sustainability. This represents a transformative force that holds the key to a healthier and more sustainable future for both humanity and the planet.
IT’S IN THE PARTICLES
At the heart of the matter lies air quality. We understand that poor air quality, exacerbated by fossil fuel combustion, poses significant risks to human health. But knowing about the problem hasn’t been enough for us to solve it.
To really get to the core of the problem, we need to understand what causes poor air quality, and this is down to particle pollution. These particles come in varied sizes, with PM2.5 (particles with a diameter of 2.5 micrometers or smaller) being particularly concerning due to their ability to penetrate deep into the lungs and even enter the bloodstream. Sources of particle pollution include vehicle emissions, industrial processes and energy production and consumption. AI
Olivier Blum, EVP Energy Management Business, Schneider Electric
and IoT solutions can empower us to monitor air quality in real-time to provide more insights and details on how the situation is changing. These issues can largely be solved by reducing reliance on combustion related activities. Simple switches to clean energy sources such as driving an electric vehicle can make an impact. Additionally, digital platforms facilitate the integration of renewable energy sources, enhance the efficiency of shipping through intelligent charging infrastructure, and offshore recharging. Hybrid cruise ships will be able to charge while at anchor offshore using power drawn from renewable sources including wind, solar and tidal, with our innovative project off the Orkney islands. Another example is we can undertake process electrification to swap out blast furnaces for cleaner heat sources. By using clean energy sources and electrifying where possible, we can deliver around 75% of the actions needed to reach net zero.
EXTREME WEATHER
A further challenge we are increasingly witnessing with a warming planet is extreme weather events – and the risk to human health with these are apparent. Tragically, they are becoming increasingly frequent and severe due to climate change. From heatwaves and wildfires to hurricanes and floods, extreme weather events pose significant threats to public health and safety. Globally, the first half of 2024 has highlighted the extent of this problem with significant flooding in Brazil, Dubai and Pakistan. In addition, according to the National Centers for Environmental Information (NCEI), March 2024 saw 3,809 fires burning more than 1,400,000 acres in North America alone, which is roughly the size of the country of Luxembourg. Electricity 4.0 isn’t just about reducing the size and scale of these events; it’s about making us more resilient in the face of them. Reducing wildfires will have a tangible impact on air quality which highlights how improving one area positively benefits another. Integrating digital solutions as part of the planning and response to extreme weather events, powered by reliable clean energy can help protect from disaster too. Advanced weather monitoring systems provide early warnings, allowing communities to prepare and respond effectively. Integrated with
smart infrastructure, these systems utilize an array of sensors to gather real-time data on weather patterns and environmental conditions. Employing predictive analytics, they forecast potential hazards and enable preemptive measures to mitigate the impacts of climate-induced disasters.
TREATING THE ISSUES IN FRONT OF US
Electricity 4.0 goes even further. It is a vehicle for democratizing access to energy resources, empowering communities to progress and thrive. Solutions such as microgrids are revolutionizing energy access, particularly in remote and underserved areas – increasing energy access for all. Beyond this, microgrids have been shown to support with disaster recovery. We’ve already seen some of the benefits Electricity 4.0 can have in a world of unprecedented weather events, but being able to restore power quickly means critical services can be back up and running. And that’s only the start of how access to energy can be transformative for improving more than just the health of the planet. Reliable electricity supply is essential for critical infrastructure such as healthcare facilities, ensuring the availability of life-saving equipment, refrigeration for medicines, and lighting for surgeries and emergency services. By bridging the energy gap, electrification can be a key technology for supporting communities to reach their full potential.
It’s clear electrification and digitization are not just technological shifts or tick box exercises; they possess the power to transform lives. By harnessing the additional benefits clean energy can provide, we can address pressing environmental and public health challenges, through reducing air pollution, improving our buildings to reduce and adapt to natural disasters and to use it as a tool to enable all communities to invest in better healthcare provisions. These investments in sustainability and resilience not only benefit the present generation but also lay the foundation for a brighter and more equitable future for generations to come. https://www.se.com/
HOW TO UNLOCK ENERGY SAVINGS USING IOT TECHNOLOGY
IoT-based energy saving technologies can be your best tool when it comes to managing and adjusting your company-wide energy consumption. Energy inefficiencies can often plague businesses without being overtly identifiable.
IoT, which stands for ‘Internet of Things’ refers to the utilisation of the internet to monitor real-time information regarding your energy use. By using smart sensors, which can read your company’s entire energetic activity, we are able to accurately keep track of your consumption and extrapolate ways to maximise efficiency.
Your business can save significant amounts of money as well as reduce its emissions by incorporating easily installable, non-intrusive analytical monitoring systems to track your energy use.
In this article, we will outline the benefits and applications of IoT technologies to guide business owners such as yourself in unlocking new opportunities for streamlining.
WHAT CAN IOT ENERGY MANAGEMENT SYSTEMS DO FOR YOUR BUSINESS?
Through the non-intrusive installation
of monitoring hardware, which require no downtime, our system allows you to view real time data on a multitude of factors such as consumption, costs, and carbon emissions directly from our ClearVUE. Zero Dashboard. Ranging from your entire business, specific locations, or even singular equipment, the system monitors energy costs, carbon, and consumption. By monitoring consumption down to individual machines or office appliances, you can precisely pinpoint areas for improvements, buff out inefficiencies or simply raise awareness regarding wastes within your company.
Regardless of one’s conscientiousness regarding energy savings, being able to visualise your consumption is the only guaranteed way of understanding energy efficiency. Therefore, enabling you to make informed decisions to reach Net Zero targets or purely reduce costs.
HOW CONSUMPTION DATA CAN GUIDE REALLIFE APPLICATIONS
Once you have identified sources of increased energy consumption or periods when there are unusual spikes in usage, you can directly act on them.
For example, if you notice that certain machinery begins operating too early in your manufacturing process, you can inform on-site managers for them to make adjustments. Furthermore, you may notice that certain circuits in different locations have differing consumption for similar production, enabling you to determine whether your teams need to be further trained in energy saving.
Or on a more basic level, you may also recognise which of your appliances need to be retired or upgraded with counterparts of higher energy saving ratings. Or whether HVAC and other quality of life systems can be more efficiently used.
To aid you in this process, if data analysis is not your speciality, we at ClearVUE.Business provide your business with a dedicated team of analysts and sustainability experts to help you devise a plan to reduce energy consumption. We can also provide month-by-month tracking regarding the efficiency of your newly adopted energy saving strategy, to ensure that your energy consumption declines to meet your targets.
Get started now with a free live demo to begin your journey towards decreased utility bills and a greener future for all. www.clearvue.business
They provide information on humidity, CO2, light etc. and had PIRs so you could monitor occupancy. But there weren’t many that controlled what was going on in individual rooms. I’ve been in student accommodation 20 years and have come across many heater panels with boosted control functions. I’d never come across anything where you can centrally control the heating system.”
Kristian discovered Prefect Controls. They were confident that Irus could sort the problem and return results promptly.
£70K SAVED AS HEATING ENERGY LOAD IS HALVED!
The Refinery is a purpose-built student accommodation development in Leeds. It opened in 2021. A combination of studio and bedroom cluster flats accommodate 407 residents. Fresh Student Living manages the scheme on behalf of specialist investment company Curlew Capital.
Kristian Mills, Director of Asset Management at Curlew Capital is responsible for the mobilisation of properties and ensuring they are operated effectively.
He explains, “Over the first two of years of operation we found that we were spending more on utilities than we had expected for a property of this size. Students were able to override the programming on the heaters, turning them up to maximum and leaving them running continuously. To exacerbate the high use of electricity, windows would be opened and closed to regulate temperature. We were witnessing huge wastage. Costly in monetary terms, but as a company fully committed to its 2030 net-zero targets we needed to seriously
consider this impact. One of the big things we identified, within our capability, is the control of energy for heating”.
Kristian sought to reduce this, “There were several solutions where sensors are placed in the bedrooms.
Irus is Prefect’s Building Energy Management System developed specifically for student accommodation. Control units in each room monitor conditions, and switch heaters on and off. The control units communicate with a central hub connected to the web based Irus Portal. Managers monitor and control individual rooms remotely. Irus doesn’t restrict heating. It avoids unnecessary energy consumption: reducing heat input when rooms are unoccupied; windows are opened; and when occupants leave a room that’s in Boost state.
“There were three distinct factors that decided the deployment of Irus”, Kristian continues, “The availability of data on bedroom usage; Lowering of energy costs; and reduction of our carbon footprint.”
The first year’s performance is impressive.
Heating energy halved
598,892kWh to 301,910kWh
Total electricity 816,064kWh down to 575,420kWh
Proportion of electricity for heating - 73% down to 52%
• 50% reduction per bedroom (1,464kwh to 738kWh)
• Almost £70,000 saved
The Head of Energy and Sustainability at Prefect has analysed the data. Gareth Chaplin explains, “Although first year figures are impressive, I can see potential for even greater savings. As operators familiarise themselves with Irus, there are tweaks to settings and profiles that will maximise performance.”
Kristian is clear about residents’ comfort, “It’s important to emphasise there is no restriction in the provision of heating for our guests. If residents need more warmth, managers can increase temperature, and lengthen
boost times etc. It’s essential that residents are comfortable. But to run an efficient property and avoid waste, we must be able to monitor energy input and control delivery.”
He continues, “Going forward, we want to make Irus the standard specification for each property. We don’t want to have to retrofit heating systems, just make sure that the best
possible system is installed, one that provides most information and control.
He concludes, “To see 50% reduction in heating load and close to £70,000 saved is phenomenal! We anticipate a return on investment of just over 3 years. These results highlight just how effective Irus has been.” www.prefectcontrols.com
RETROFITTING NON-RESIDENTIAL BUILDINGS: BRINGING THE OPPORTUNITY WITHIN REACH
Decarbonising nonresidential buildings stock worldwide will play an important part in meeting 2030 and 2050 climate targets. Comprehensive retrofits of commercial buildings can reduce their energy use by up to 40%, but this is currently not happening anywhere near the scale needed to meet climate goals, according to a report released by the American Council for an Energy-Efficient Economy (ACEEE).1
Even greater official pressure is widely seen as the key to accelerating progress. Mandatory standards for energy-efficiency in buildings already exist in Europe, the UK, and China, with strong enforcement regimes and non-compliance penalties. For instance, minimum building energy performance standards in the UK mean that it is now unlawful to let (lease) properties in England and Wales that do not meet an ‘E’ level of energy performance.
Additionally, in April 2024 the European Commission formally adopted a directive2 mandating members to cut building emissions and energy use. For
Toby Horne, Smart Infrastructure Financing Partner, Siemens Financial Services UK
non-residential buildings, member states must renovate 16% of their worstperforming buildings by 2030 and the 26% worst-performing buildings by 2033.
Apart from such legal obligations, initiatives to reduce carbon emissions through lower energy consumption are commercially compelling on two fronts.
ETHICAL AND COMMERCIAL BENEFITS OF DECARBONISATION
Firstly, companies are increasingly issuing green bonds to raise capital, making it necessary to implement carbon footprint reduction initiatives. Alongside this, businesses and consumers are increasingly looking to buy from more environmentally-friendly companies making green credentials a key competitive advantage in global markets.
Secondly, in a world that has recently experienced a major fuel crisis, reductions in energy usage save money. Reducing energy consumption, through
the enabling digital technology, has therefore become a major driver of investment in ‘smart’ commercial buildings, ‘smart’ hospitals, ‘smart’ campuses and ‘smart’ public buildings. Many elements of the smart building are also the foundation for reduced energy consumption. The main contributors to energy use reduction and decarbonisation focus on energyefficient insulation and door controls, smart HVAC (heating, ventilation and air-conditioning controls), and sensordriven LED lighting.3 Smart buildings controls that activate usage only when needed also clearly play a crucial part.4
FLEXIBLE FINANCE AS AN ENABLER
A lack of free capital or risk concerns about energy investments can mean
3 IEA, Toolkit: Energy efficient building technologies, 2018
4 IEA, Energy Efficiency: Buildings, 2020
Financing arrangements could help the existing non-residential buildings stock in the USA, Europe, China and India reduce emissions by over 210 MtCO2e annually, between now and 2030.
a substantial number of buildings owners missing out on the deliverable operational cost reductions, carbon emission reductions and supply security that can be gained from retrofitting. However, flexible financing arrangements can secure these operational cost reductions without putting pressure on capital resources, avoid putting capital at risk, and ensure expected savings are realized. Such financing tends to come from specialist financiers, such as Siemens Financial Services (SFS), who have a deep understanding of the technology and its practical applications.
SPECIALIST FINANCING ARRANGEMENTS
Public sector initiatives need to be matched by private sector support, in particular private sector finance. Financing for ‘smart’ buildings can take a variety of forms, depending on the business processes that need to be enabled. At the technology component level, financing tools are available to help vendors and distributors add value with cash flow capabilities for their buyers. For larger installations or systems, specialist financing arrangements can be flexed and tailored to align costs with the rate of benefit gained from the energy-efficient technology. At the most complex level, as-aservice financing arrangements provide the solution, with future expected
savings from energy efficiency being harnessed and used to pay for the capital investment and more. Often, these arrangements can be made budgetneutral for the building owner, avoiding the need for any capital spending at all.
MEASURING THE OPPORTUNITY
For CFOs looking at managing their property portfolio, it is helpful to assess just how much decarbonisation of existing buildings is susceptible to energy-efficiency-as-a-service techniques. The graph below shows highly conservative estimates5 of the baseline annual emissions reduction that energy-efficiency-as-a-service arrangements could enable between now and the end of the decade – the first phase target date for most climate planning around the world. The model
5 Methodology: Data from national/regional statistical institutes on annual energy consumption by non-residential buildings built prior to 2010 was used to model CO2 emissions of buildings likely to benefit from deep retrofit for energy-efficiency. This was then reduced by highest likely implementation levels of such deep retrofit. Likely energy savings from deep retrofit were calculated using the lowest end of official average ranges. The resulting figures provide a highly conservative annual estimate of the energy savings achievable through deep retrofit, which can be financed through energyefficiency-as-a-service financing techniques.
ENERGY FINANCE
is based on official emissions data and calculates just 50% of the available emissions reduction potential.
A HIGH PRIORITY FOR DECARBONISATION
40% of global greenhouse gas emissions come from buildings and, if left unchecked, they’re set to double by 20506. Commercial and public buildings are more energy intensive per m2 than residential property, making energy-efficiency initiatives for nonresidential buildings a high priority for meeting decarbonisation targets. In challenging economic times, flexible, specialist financing techniques (such as EaaS) are important enablers to help the investment in energy-efficiency maintain its required momentum.
Siemens is uniquely able to offer building owners and businesses an integrated value proposition: technology financing solutions, including energyefficiency-as-a-service, as well as technology expertise and the technology itself.
If you would like more information about accelerating your investment in energy efficiency without the need to find large amounts of capital, please visit: https://www.siemens.com/ infrastructure-finance
THE KEY ROLE OF GRANT FUNDING IN PUBLIC SECTOR DECARBONISATION
HOW A STRATEGIC APPROACH IS IMPORTANT TO MEETING OUR NET ZERO GOALS
Climate change is happening now and is happening fast; it is paramount to reach net zero in a timely manner to tackle this climate emergency. The message is clear and, according to the United Nations, more than 140 countries have pledged their commitment to this cause. Specifically, in Scotland, the Climate Change Act (2019) sets to reach this target by 2045.
Setting an objective is the stepping stone to define goals but there are many challenges along the way. One of these is undoubtedly the financial aspect.
The UK government estimates the cost of decarbonising UK public sector buildings to be between £25 and £30 billion. Despite this figure being indicative and based on current market prices, and despite Scotland accounting for only a portion of this, this value gives a clear indication of the financial effort required over the next 11 to 16 years.
The Scottish Government has demonstrated a strong commitment to decarbonising the public sector as part of its climate change goals. For example, since the year 2007/2008, the Government, alongside ourselves and public sector partners, has delivered more than 1,100 energy efficiency projects through the investment of over £82m thus contributing to the removal of more than 750,000 tonnes of CO2 over the lifetime of the projects.
We understand that this is not sufficient to achieve the set target. Energy efficiency and fabric improvements are extremely important when it comes to increasing the buildings energy performance and reducing heat losses. However, these cannot fully displace the buildings heating demand. At the same time, they play a pivotal role in enabling the installation of those technologies such as heat pumps which can meet the full heating demand of the building by relying on the use of electricity rather than on fossil fuel sources such as gas, oil or, coal.
In 2021, the Heat in Buildings strategy was published, outlining an investment of £1.8 billion towards energy efficiency and zero carbon heating for buildings in Scotland. This includes a significant allocation of £200 million over five
Nadim El Bakri, Senior Energy and Carbon Analyst at Salix
years specifically for enhancing energy efficiency and decarbonisation of public sector buildings. The Scotland’s Public Sector Heat Decarbonisation Fund falls within this pot of funding and aims at supporting local authorities, universities and arm’s-length organisations in order to decarbonise their buildings with the main focus of replacing outdated fossil fuel heating system with heat pumps and other technologies. The scheme, launched in July 2023, is supporting 12 projects valued at over £17m enabling the removal of nearly 53,000 tonnes of CO2 over the next 22 years, which is the average lifetime of the technologies included in the scope of the funded projects. These range from fabric improvements such as cavity and wall insulation or glazing to energy efficiency measures such as BMS and solar PV, and low carbon heating systems such as air Source and water source heat pumps. Whilst a preliminary comparison of the carbon savings between loan and grant funded projects does not highlight major differences, the key distinctions reside in the projects’ scope and their philosophy. Where projects funded through loans greatly contributed to the reduction of carbon emissions, 10 of the 12 projects supported by Scotland’s Public Sector Heat Decarbonisation Fund are fully cutting their fossil fuel dependency of the selected buildings. There are two major aspects showcasing the impossibility of comparing these two financial tools: • the many financial limitations imposed on public sector bodies in Scotland. Whether as the result of individual financial circumstances or because subject to policies and regulations, many public sector bodies face restrictions on borrowing money. Whilst this affects, to a certain extent, applications to grant funding, it is to a lesser degree than for loan borrowings. the payback period of the
technologies required to achieve decarbonisation. When combining the already high equipment costs with the associated distribution and infrastructure costs, the return on investments can be extremely long, indicating that such measures should be funded through a grant mechanism. While the push from public sector bodies to focus on heat decarbonisation plans is increasing, there are significant financial holdbacks that can jeopardise their implementation. Firstly, the initial investment required for low-carbon heating technologies, such as heat pumps, biomass boilers, and district heating systems, can be substantial. This can be a significant barrier for public sector bodies with limited budgets. Secondly, accessing adequate and consistent funding can be challenging. While there are grants and subsidies available, there may be too much competition to consistently secure funding which may also be limited in scope. Finally, the long-term financial benefits of heat decarbonisation may not be immediately apparent, making it difficult to justify the upfront expenditure, especially in the face of other pressing financial needs.
In conclusion, loans are and will always be a fundamental financial tool to support public sector bodies for a constant and gradual improvement of their buildings energy performances. However, full decarbonisation can only be achieved through a continuous release of grant funding since it is subject to less binding criteria which can potentially prevent the involvement of public sector organisations. As the world races against the clock to combat climate change, the strategic allocation of grant funding will play a pivotal role in determining the success in reaching net zero emissions.
https://www.salixfinance.co.uk/
HOW TO DECARBONISE THE GRID? POLICY EXCHANGE REPORT HIGHLIGHTS SEPARATE, DIFFERENT APPROACHES
Chris Goggin of Rinnai reviews a recent report that details three separate routes to the decarbonisation of the UK national energy grid. The report highlights a present government plan and an opposition strategy – does either methodology ensure beneficial results which delivers NetZero?
The recently released report “Decarbonising the Grid Three Scenarios for Achieving Net Zero Power” presents three pathways that explore different routes towards providing clean and cheap energy to the 60 million-plus UK population. An independent energy market analytics company – Aurora Energy Research –was commissioned to review each pathway. The reviewers have provided their interpretation of feasibility of the proposals.
The three scenarios are:
• Net Zero 2030 plans under the opposition
• Net Zero 2035 guided by the current government.
• “Business-As-Usual” model, which follows the current trajectory of policy development and market conditions.
This article will ignore the “Business-asUsual” model as this would also fall under current government plans. These paths focus on Net Zero status being achieved in 2030 and 2035 and what action must be undertaken to realize this ambition.
The report was commissioned by Policy Exchange, a research institute that aims to influence domestic and international policy by highlighting ideas and attitudes associated with each political party. Funding comes from donations and supporters.
Our industry needs to be mindful of the details here – societal goals are driven by the need for NetZero and a sustainable energy future. Politicians set policy, the industry is
at the metaphoric coal face here, in delivering a healthy future of heating, hot water provision and clean air,
The main argument of this report states that the British energy grid is better placed to decarbonise in the year 2035 using the current Government’s plan rather than 2030 under the opposition’s strategy. However, there are objectives that both parties agree upon in principle, such as the expansion of capacity in renewables.
Both parties will seek to enhance production and distribution of onshore and offshore wind, solar as well as hydrogen. Additional funding will be directed towards CCUS (Carbon Capture Underground Storage) whilst nuclear energy manufacturing and deployment will also be scaled up.
Differences in approach is evident in the separate timeframes each party believe can deliver feasible and tangible results. The opposition plan is to decarbonise the grid by 2030 whilst the current government say that 2035 would be more appropriate.
The report summarises the 2030 approach as follows: “Aurora’s modelling shows that NZ 2030 is deemed an infeasible scenario, justified by an insufficient time available to conduct what would be a radical overhaul of the power system, policy, planning systems and investment landscape. The speed required to build critical technologies – including offshore wind, onshore wind and solar – would need to increase to multiple times their historical installation speed, as would investment in grid capacity.”
The current political opposition will require huge amounts of capital investment to achieve their aim of decarbonising. Aurora has calculated that £15.6 billion a year until 2030 is required (total £93.5 billion) and a further £4.4. billion a year from 20312035 (£22.5 billion) equating to a total of £116 billion over the next 11 years.
The Aurora reviews state that the definitive feasibility of the 2035 approach: “Reaching the Government’s current target of a Net Zero power system by 2035, though more feasible than a NZ 2030 scenario, will still however require
an extensive systems level change and significant policy intervention.”
Current government plans to decarbonise the UK’s power grid by 2035 will require £8.2 billion a year of additional investment until 2030 – a total of £49.3 billon. A further £11.1 billion a year of additional investment from 2031 – 2035 a total of £55.3 billion. The total accumulative investment over 11 years will amount to £104.6 billion over next 11 years.
The 2035 approach is regarded by Aurora as more achievable due to the rate of introduction required in new and updated technology and policy amendments. The investment landscape is also considered more viable within this timeframe.
Both the current government and opposition party are dedicated to decarbonising the energy grid; however, they are yet to agree on an appropriate pathway that secures beneficial economic and societal benefits. The opposition believe decarbonising the UK energy grid by 2030 can be achieved through capacitating £116 billion of investment, whilst the current government’s plan is to extend the 2030 timeline to 2035 and absorb £104 billion of additional subsidy. Time and finance are central issues to both strategies.
Rinnai take an active role in reporting and consulting on potential policy shifts in energy related issues that mainstream UK political parties adopt. Rinnai aim to supply UK customers with a balanced reflection on all matters that affect UK energy options, cost and access.
To stay up to date with policy news and views subscribe to Rinnai’s newsletter: www.rinnai-uk.co.uk/ contact-us/newsletter-sign
HOW CAN UK BUSINESSES OVERCOME GRID CONSTRAINTS ON THE PATH TO DECARBONISATION?
Daniel Moore, Head of Utility Services, SMS Plc.
Britain’s energy transition has become fraught with well-publicised delays in obtaining crucial grid connections, leading to stalled investments and imperilling emissions reduction targets. Amidst this challenge, a range of strategic solutions have emerged as vital lifelines to help organisations navigate grid constraints and propel decarbonisation efforts forward.
As the urgency to combat climate change intensifies, businesses across the United Kingdom are increasingly looking towards electrification as a key strategy to reduce greenhouse gas emissions. However, a significant obstacle stands in their path: grid constraints.
The challenge of grid constraints not only hampers the efforts of businesses to transition to cleaner energy sources but also poses risks of delayed investments and lost opportunities.
WHAT ARE GRID CONSTRAINTS?
Grid constraints arise when there is insufficient capacity within the electricity grid to accommodate increasing power demand and/or integration of new renewable energy sources. This bottleneck in the grid infrastructure poses a formidable challenge for businesses embarking on decarbonisation and electrification initiatives.
For many large commercial or industrial energy users, it is an unfortunate reality that transitioning to cleaner energy sources requires (often costly) new or upgraded grid connections from their site(s).
Electrification of processes previously reliant on fossil fuels (such as adoption of efficient heat pumps in place of gasfired heating or installing electric vehicle infrastructure to facilitate low-carbon transport) as well as integrating onsite electricity generation like solar PV, typically necessitates establishing a larger grid import / export capacity to and from the site.
However, with the huge increase in demand for new or upgraded grid connections from UK businesses looking to kickstart their electrification journey in recent years, there now exists a huge backlog of connections requests. Currently, businesses face delays ranging from 2 to 12 years for grid connections depending on how much capacity they require, with some
reported to be waiting well into the 2030s.
HOW DO GRID CONNECTION DELAYS AFFECT BUSINESS DECARBONISATION PLANS?
The impact of grid constraints on decarbonisation plans is profound. These delays not only escalate costs but also jeopardise critical investments and emission reduction targets. The implications extend beyond individual businesses, affecting downstream sectors in the supply chain and impeding the broader transition to a low-carbon economy.
Moreover, businesses encountering grid limitations are forced to explore alternative, often suboptimal, decarbonisation routes. This can often compromise long-term emission reduction efforts and undermine the economic viability of renewable energy projects if businesses are not advised sensibly and strategically by genuine experts on their best possible alternative options.
WHAT IS GOVERNMENT DOING TO ADDRESS GRID CONSTRAINTS?
Following mounting pressure from industry, media, and the public, in November 2023 the UK Government released its Connections Action Plan, which outlines reforms to the process of grid connections including raising entry requirements, removing stalled projects, better utilising existing network capacity, improving data and processes, and developing longer-term connection process models. The goal is to significantly reduce connection timescales, ensuring viable projects can connect faster to support the transition to a net-zero power system.
The plan involves collaboration between government, regulatory bodies, energy companies, and customers to ensure timely implementation and accountability. Benefits are expected for all types of connection customers, from large-scale renewable projects to individual consumers installing home appliances like heat pumps.
In April 2024, Ofgem also endorsed the National Grid Electricity System Operator’s (ESO) own ambitious proposals to revamp the grid connections process, which aims to prioritise viable projects and potentially halve the connections queue. Whilst the regulator acknowledged the proposal’s potential to significantly contribute to the overall vision of the Connections Action Plan (CAP), it highlighted the need for continued progress on other CAP actions.
Delivering this action plan and its proposed benefits is itself expected to take a number of years to implement fully. This is time that many businesses wishing to decarbonise can ill afford to lose if they are to make good on their sustainability and net zero targets, which in many cases have been publicly declared.
HOW ENERGY INFRASTRUCTURE EXPERTS CAN HELP BUSINESSES MITIGATE THE RISKS OF GRID CONSTRAINTS
Amidst the challenges posed by grid constraints, strategic partnerships with energy infrastructure experts and carbon reduction partners have emerged as indispensable assets for businesses navigating the transition to cleaner energy sources. These partners, equipped with expertise in grid infrastructure and decarbonisation strategies, play a pivotal role in guiding organisations through the complexities of grid limitations.
One such solution lies in collaborating with ‘power partners’, such as SMS, who offer tailored support in value engineering grid connections. Such energy infrastructure experts specialise in facilitating seamless grid connections, managing critical responsibilities, and offering tailored solutions to address businesses’ unique energy needs.
Experienced partners like SMS also bring specialised expertise in grid integration and DNO management, enabling businesses to navigate regulatory frameworks, technical requirements, and capacity constraints effectively, helping avoid longer delays than necessary, mitigate risks, and maximise efficiency of planned electrification projects.
ALTERNATIVE APPROACHES TO OVERCOMING GRID CONSTRAINTS
Besides tackling grid connections head on, businesses can also explore alternative approaches to circumvent grid constraints and accelerate decarbonisation efforts.
Microgrids (self-sufficient energy systems serving specific sites) offer a decentralised solution to energy needs. By incorporating distributed energy sources and energy storage, microgrids enhance resilience and minimise reliance on the central grid, particularly in areas with constrained infrastructure.
Onsite energy storage solutions, such as long-duration battery systems in particular, provide an ideal avenue for businesses to manage local demand and generation effectively. By optimising energy
usage and reducing transmission losses, these storage solutions offer a cost-effective alternative to grid upgrades and enhance the integration of renewable energy resources.
While addressing grid constraints is essential for decarbonisation efforts, businesses can also enhance resilience and mitigate risks by diversifying their energy sources and adopting a multifaceted approach to energy management.
WORKING WITH A NET ZERO PARTNER
When embarking on alternative approaches to overcome grid constraints and accelerate decarbonisation efforts, organisations should engage with expert energy consultants to navigate and implement such complex solutions exampled above, ultimately advising you on the most viable route forward for your business.
A strategic net zero partner like SMS can guide the establishment of microgrids, for instance, ensuring they are designed to optimally balance load and generation while enhancing resilience against grid instability. SMS can also aid in integrating onsite energy storage systems to manage energy flows and optimise usage in line with the business’s operational demands and sustainability goals.
Furthermore, by leveraging expertise in renewable energy technologies, carbon reduction experts like us can help businesses diversify their energy sources creating a robust, multifaceted energy management strategy that reduces grid dependence, shields against price volatility, and boosts energy security.
Overall, our role is pivotal in crafting a tailored, strategic approach that not only addresses grid constraints but also positions your business’ long-term energy efficiency and cost savings.
LOOKING AHEAD: CLEARING THE PATH TO RESILIENT, SUSTAINABLE ENERGY
As businesses chart their course towards decarbonisation and electrification, overcoming grid constraints has emerged as a critical imperative.
By forging strategic partnerships and leveraging alternative energy solutions, businesses can surmount the challenges posed by grid limitations and accelerate the transition to a resilient, sustainable energy future. https://www.sms-plc.com/
A SUSTAINABLE RETROFIT
EPR Architects' new London headquarters, All Saints in Austral Street, underwent a remarkable transformation into a net-zero carbon in operation studio. Zumtobel's lighting solutions were pivotal in this retrofit project, aligning with the practice’s sustainability, flexibility, and innovation values.
EPR Architects' new London headquarters, All Saints, is a testament to sustainable retrofitting, aiming for net-zero carbon operations, epitomising the practice's values. Following decades of unsympathetic alterations, EPR has restored a once fine but crumbling Victorian building to its former glory.
The collaborative effort between EPR Architects, Zumtobel, and other stakeholders, including Hilson Moran (MEP Consultant), Sheridan (M & E Contractor), and McCue (Main contractor), realised their vision for the retrofit project, without overstretching the tight budget.
PRESERVING HERITAGE, EMBRACING SUSTAINABILITY
The retrofit project aimed to restore the Victorian building's original charm while incorporating sustainable practices. Zumtobel's lighting solutions played a central role in achieving this balance, emphasising energy efficiency and aesthetic enhancement.
LUMINAIRES AND DESIGN INTEGRATION
Zumtobel's diverse range of energy efficient LED luminaires, including SLOTLIGHT Infinity D/ ID, VIVO, PANOS infinity, LINARIA, ONDARIA, LINETIK, SUPERSYSTEM in various sizes and shapes, ARTSIGN and), RESCLITE PRO emergency luminaires, LITECOM lighting controls and eBox, AMPHIBIA and Sister brand Thorn Lighting's Aquaforce Pro, were strategically installed to complement the building's design and layout.
Dominic Norman, Architect at EPR Architects, expressed his satisfaction with the project, emphasising Zumtobel's contribution to its success. "The rectangular formed linear SLOTLIGHTS in the studio spaces complement the exposed services aesthetic and provide uplighting to highlight the existing flitch beams and exposed joists," he remarked. "Tracked spotlights lift the rusticated, textural qualities of the exposed masonry,
drawing attention to the heritage of the Victorian building and furthering the feeling of a creative work environment."
CHALLENGES AND SOLUTIONS
The project encountered challenges such as lead times and budget constraints. However, Zumtobel's proactive approach, including regular design reviews and transparent communication, facilitated effective problem-solving. Collaborative efforts with the contractors ensured smooth installation despite logistical hurdles.
CLIENT SATISFACTION AND RECOGNITION
The successful integration of Zumtobel's lighting solutions garnered praise from EPR Architects and other project stakeholders. It was shortlisted for the Environmental Prize in the New London Awards 2023, and as a net zero carbon in operation project, it achieved an excellent BREEAM RFO 2014 rating. Furthermore, it embodies many WELL building standards, representing a beacon of sustainable retrofitting and design excellence.
Dominic adds, "The successful integration of Zumtobel's lighting solutions has not only enhanced the functionality of our spaces, but also elevated the overall aesthetic appeal of the All Saints project. Incorporating scene control settings proves particularly useful and ensures we have the right light levels for all occasions in meeting rooms and the central hub space to fit the various functions - daily use, presentations, or as an event space. Zumtobel's dedication to service excellence and attention to detail truly made a difference."
For further information on any of the products please visit: https://z.lighting/en/zumtobel/
INNOVATION, NOT MAGIC, WILL GET US TO NET ZERO
Have you wanted to achieve something but haven’t really known where to start? Well, that’s me, right now, as I write this comment. This is the first time I’ve written a post and after doing a fair bit of research and pulling together as much info as I can get in the finite amount of time I’ve given myself, I’m giving it a go.
My challenge isn’t new, in fact, it’s no different to a lot of challenges people I’ve been speaking to recently are facing with respect to their Net Zero ambitions, priorities, and potential projects. There’s so much that needs to be done, within a limited budget, and a clock that seems to be ticking much faster than it did a few years ago. Where does one even start?
For a lot of organisations, the first thing to do is look inward. How many buildings do I have in my portfolio? What sort of buildings are they? Which ones are the worst energy offenders? Not everyone has a complete picture or a 360 view of their portfolio.
There is so much data out there, some free, some not, some high quality, some not. All of it out there, somewhere, to help people and organisations get to Net Zero. The challenge is knowing where to find it, how to access it, and getting the most out of it in a way that doesn’t break the bank or result in lengthy timescales.
Speaking to the people responsible for identifying their organisation’s portfolio or their clients’ portfolio and determining where to start first, whether it’s locations for potential solutions or potential locations for innovative low carbon technology, they’d all say that if they could wave a magic wand, they’d just want a list of all the locations and properties prioritised by where they
COMMENT
by Sandeep Kang, Senior Product Manager at Energy Systems Catapult
should start first from a retrofit and low carbon tech perspective. Simple, right?
Now, this isn’t Hogwarts, but the Catapult has performed some wizardry that enables people to get to a point where, with some confidence, they’ll know where they should start and can prioritise retrofits and low carbon tech installations. This comes in the form of Net Zero Data, specifically that Catapult’s modelled building energy demand datasets for both domestic and non-domestic buildings, as well as Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) ratings (actual and inferred) for domestic buildings which, amongst other datasets developed by the Catapult, are available through the Net Zero Market.
Net Zero Data has been developed by the Catapult so you don’t have to source, condition, integrate, and maintain data yourself. They are out-of-the-box datasets that are compatible with any GIS and analytics tool and give you instant access to insights that speed up your decisionmaking process rather than needing to spend time and resource in creating usable data. Simply plug and play.
Net Zero Data is already making a tangible difference to on the ground delivery. One Net Zero Data user from a local authority in the south-east of England has been using Net Zero Data to create a portfolio view of his estate. In turn, this has allowed him to prioritise
domestic and non-domestic aspects of the portfolio based on modelled energy demand and when combined with his own data, it enables him to identify buildings that have potential for greener heat solutions (using the Catapult’s potential for air source and ground source heat pump datasets) in a prioritised way that can be used to build a business case for funding and investment (e.g. PSDS). All in, this helps him turn ambition into action in a much quicker way using Your Local Net Zero Hub!
This portfolio view gives this Net Zero Data user a well-rounded view of his current portfolio that allows him to assess potential low carbon technology interventions that can help reduce the energy bills for these buildings further by leveraging additional Net Zero Data datasets for Rooftop Solar PV Potential and Domestic Battery Storage Potential.
“Without Net Zero Data, I would have needed to rely on my own personal knowledge of the area, which has gaps. It’s given me a useful picture that I can aggregate to benchmark building energy demand. This has enabled me to engage with stakeholders to drive the decarbonisation, energy efficiency, and thermal comfort of community halls.” –Climate Change & Sustainability Project Officer. https://es.catapult.org.uk/
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SOLAR POWER: 5 COMMON MYTHS BUSTED BY EXPERTS, AND HOW UK BUSINESSES CAN STILL BENEFIT
From concerns about poor panel efficiency and the unpredictable British weather to worries about long payback periods, Geo Green Power bust the biggest myths surrounding commercial solar energy in 2024.
Over a third of UK businesses report that unpredictable energy costs have hindered their growth in the past year. Yet almost half (44%) of these businesses do not plan to increase their onsite energy generation capacity within the next two years1
So, what’s putting businesses off from taking the leap into on-site renewables? Energy experts at Geo Green Power explore some of the biggest myths around solar energy and discuss how businesses can benefit from green energy in 2024 and beyond.
1. Solar panels are inefficient and won’t power your business
The efficiency of solar panelsmeaning how much sunlight they convert to usable, clean electricity – has improved dramatically over recent years as the technology behind it has evolved.
Advancements in photovoltaic (PV) technology, better materials, improved manufacturing processes, and more sophisticated system designs, mean businesses produce more energy using fewer panels. The result: savings on initial installation costs and the ability to generate more electricity, reducing the amount of power businesses need to buy from the grid.
James Cunningham, managing director of Geo Green Power, a renewable energy company based
in Nottingham, explains, “Higherefficiency solar panels need less space to produce the same amount of electricity as lower-efficiency ones. This is especially important for installations in areas with limited space, like smaller commercial buildings and urban settings. By generating more power in the same footprint, businesses can more easily scale up and meet their energy requirements with solar PV.
“Last year we completed a 38 site installation roll out with Inchcape UK, installing solar panels on their car dealerships and service centres throughout the UK. Many of these dealerships operate entirely “off-grid” throughout the summer thanks to their solar PV installations and bills are significantly reduced all year round.”
2.
The long
payback
period for panels makes them an unworthwhile
investment
Investing in commercial solar panels can result in substantial cost savings in the long term, with medium-sized installations (50kW) saving businesses over £10,000 a year on energy bills, particularly when installed on a southfacing roof with ample sunlight.
Increasing their appeal to business owners, commercial solar investments also deliver a full payback on installation costs in around 4 years and require little maintenance. The return on investment starts as soon as the solar system is switched on – providing
clean, renewable energy, instead of businesses having to rely on the grid.
In 2021 Geo Green Power installed a 350kW solar PV system for packaging manufacturer West Coast Corrugated in Kirby, North Liverpool. Generating over 285,000 kWh of electricity per year, the system was designed to provide approximately 30% of the site’s energy requirements, delivering full payback within 5 years and continuing to deliver savings for over 20 years thereafter.
In the last 3 years the system has helped to protect West Coast Corrugated from volatile energy markets, saving over £100,000 and reducing the initial payback time by around 6 months.
3. Installation costs are too high
Installation costs have in fact never been cheaper. From an industry high in 2022, when demand outstripped supply, the cost of panels has fallen significantly as manufacturing has increased.
Higher panel wattage has also reduced installation times, with fewer panels needing to be installed to generate the same amount of energy. Costs now range from around £40,000 for a 50kW system to £300,000 for a 500kW system, with factors like system size, panel location and access requirements influencing the final cost.
If you are basing installation costs on a proposal you received 12 months ago or more, you should request a new quote, as the figures could differ significantly.
The good news is that businesses looking to invest in renewable technology may be able to access grants for solar installations thanks to a number of Local Authority and National Government funding schemes, including the Smart Export Guarantee (SEG) which means businesses can be paid for excess power exported back to the grid.
Government and tax incentives, alongside solar costs decreasing by 82%2, have made solar a more viable
option for businesses looking to achieve long-term cost savings while improving their green credentials this year.
4. The unpredictable British weather makes solar a bad option
Even with the UK’s variable weather, solar panels can contribute substantially to energy savings and reduce carbon footprints.
Solar panels can generate electricity from both direct sunlight and diffused light, which is light scattered by clouds. The UK’s frequent cloudy weather still provides sufficient diffused light for solar panels to operate. Modern solar panels are designed to be efficient even in lower light conditions.
Cunningham adds: “Despite the common perception that they require constant, strong sunlight to be viable, solar panels can perform effectively in the UK’s weather conditions.
“There is naturally an element of seasonal variation, with the longer days of sunlight in the summer months allowing for the generation of a significant amount of electricity. In winter production does decrease, but panels still generate some power.”
5. It costs a lot to maintain solar panels
Contrary to popular belief, solar panels are relatively low maintenance due to their simple construction and the absence of moving parts. When installed properly and given the appropriate level of servicing and maintenance, they are designed to last 25 years plus.
“There remains a common misconception that maintaining solar panels can be expensive and complex,” says Cunningham. “This belief likely stems from a lack of understanding about the technology, the nature of solar panel systems and how frequently maintenance is required.”
To keep your solar panels running efficiently, an annual service is recommended. This ensures your system stays in full working order and any issues are quickly addressed. While average rainfall generally keeps panels clean, local conditions like weather, bird activity, and overhanging trees might require occasional cleaning.
SHOULD YOU SWITCH TO SOLAR?
Speaking about why Geo Green Power has put together this advice
James Cunningham, the Managing Director of the company, commented:
“Naturally, the initial expenditure for solar panels can be seen as a barrier. However, as many businesses face consistently high energy bills, it’s crucial to shift our mindset from short-term costs to the long-term gains these systems provide.
“Whether it’s saving money, securing future energy supply, enhancing competitiveness, or contributing to decarbonisation, the benefits of switching to solar generation are substantial. We’re also seeing more and more businesses looking to us to help them reduce their scope 2 emissions in order to retain contracts with customers who are focusing on Net Zero ambitions.
“I urge businesses to reconsider if they’ve been deterred by high quotes or perceived limitations like limited roof space in the past. Solar technology advancements have made systems much more efficient and cost-effective, expanding opportunities for many commercial properties.”
For more information, visit: https://www.geogreenpower.com/ solar-panels/commercial/
RINNAI EXPANDS COST-
EFFECTIVE CONTINUOUS
FLOW HOT WATER HEATERS
Rinnai is introducing the innovative KCM series of continuous flow hot water heaters into the UK market. The KCM series is designed to specifically increase customer savings in energy, capital, and carbon footprint with the inclusion of internally refined technological advancements. It operates at 93% efficiency.
The KCM unit has microprocessors to ensure hot water is delivered at the exact pre-set temperature. The advanced micro-processors will also measure incoming water temperatures and modulate gas input. This guarantees the system will only use the required amount of energy to increase water temperature whilst supplying limitless volumes of clean hot water.
The inclusion of micro-processors enables the customer to pre-set water temperatures supporting the minimization of Legionella and eliminating the risk of safety issues such as scalding.
The Rinnai KCM series is of a compact design thus reducing the requirement for installation wall and floor space (unit dimensions length 670x 470x 257). System set up, monitoring and error codes are all made easily available via inbuilt status monitors located at the front of the panel.
An all-electric ignition system has been added to ensure no energy wastage – as no additional power is required to maintain unused water temperature. Hot water temperature is internally monitored, if any fluctuations that rise above 3 degrees of the maximum set temperature, operation of the system
will immediately stop ensuring customer safety and low operational costs.
The Rinnai Infinity KCM Series of continuous flow water heaters maintains an extensive array of the following operational features and benefits
• Compact size saving wall and floor space (dimensions length 670x 470x 257)
• Light weight 26kgs (no need for heavy lifting gear)
• Hot Water Delivery Capacity 15.4 ltr/min raised 33°C.
• Temperature Accuracy -1 / +1 from the appliance set point. Exhaust System Forced Room Sealed Max Flue Run 13m (less 2m per 90° bend & 1m per 45° bend) Temperature Range 50°C – 60°
• Ignition Method Direct electronic
• Gas Consumption Natural Gas 38.1 kW max
• Gas Consumption LPG 38.1 kW max
• Gross Efficiency 93%
• Net Efficiency 103% Rinnai continue to produce innovative technological solutions to UK customers who require durable lowcost appliances that deliver heating and hot water to domestic and commercial applications. Rinnai is sensitive to UK customer needs and will therefore present more technologies that provide cost effective property comfort.
To receive a free brochure on this innovative water heating solution register today at https://www.rinnai-uk. co.uk/contact-us/request-brochure
BUILDING IN SUSTAINABILITY WITH HEAT PUMPS
The implementation of lowcarbon water heating is one of the fastest, low-impact means of introducing sustainability into an existing commercial building. A considered, well-designed replacement system will reduce carbon emissions by at least half compared to equivalent-sized gasfired water heating and likely by much more as the electricity grid continues to become greener. Efficient, robust and relatively low maintenance, the latest generation of renewables represents a solid investment in the future of a building and the comfort it supplies to those visiting or working there.
The current renewable technology of choice is the heat pump, of which the easiest and lowest cost to implement is the air source heat pump (ASHP). The technology uses a reverse refrigerating circuit to extract heat from the air, even when ambient temperatures drop during the winter months. The efficiency of a heat pump is measured by its COP (coefficient of performance) which defines how much energy it uses compared to the heat energy it generates. The higher the number the better. The COP will fluctuate with external temperatures so it’s always best to use the seasonal COP which averages the efficiency across the year. As the ambient temperatures drop the heat pump will demand more electrical energy to run the compressor to maintain necessary operating temperatures. This is where heat pumps have a weakness because they were designed to operate at low working flow temperatures (35°) to supply radiators and underfloor heating, not the more stringent heating requirements of water (+60°C) required to prevent legionella.
This additional electrical energy required to raise temperatures comes from the grid and remains far more expensive than gas. In the past three years, electricity prices have fluctuated and climbed from three to nearly five times the cost of gas. This means building in sustainability with low-carbon technology can deliver considerable increases in operational costs if not approached with care and consideration.
Heat pumps have a valid role to play, but for water heating, they need to be used as part of a wider process to ensure cost-effective, efficient operation. This hybrid approach employs the ASHP as a source for preheating cold water flowing into the system to 45°C. This is more than achievable for most heat pumps, maximising the efficiency and
reducing the energy required to run the unit. This warmed water is then fed into a cylinder where a second heating source tops up the water temperature to a safe 65°C for use throughout the building. This top-up can come in the form of a gas water heater, gaining very low operational costs, but a less meaningful reduction in carbon emission, typically around 30%. To maximise emission reduction, an electric boiler is preferred, although operational costs will climb, smart controls will optimise the two heat sources to minimise energy demands and provide control over operational costs.
With a hybrid system, there will be an increased plant, with a heat pump, boiler and larger cylinder needed to account for slower system reheat after peak demand. Compared to traditional gas water heating this can be a concern when retrofitting as space holds value. The latest generation of renewables, from monobloc ASHPs to electric boilers, are increasingly more compact, while smart controls maximise storage optimising cylinder size.
For smaller to mid-sized organisations with basin-led hot water demands Adveco has redefined this approach with its award-winning FUSION electric water heating system. Conceived as a direct replacement for old gas systems, FUSION mounts an electric boiler onto a cylinder with prebuilt pipework. The controls and sealed multiple immersions within the boiler ensure resilience and means almost completely nullify damaging limescale in hard water areas. For soft water areas, the stainless steel cylinder provides anti-corrosion protection. The optional addition of an electric immersion also provides redundancy with short-term
backup to guarantee service should repair be required. FUSION excels with a twin coil cylinder variant that enables a monobloc heat pump to be connected to preheat the water. With the latest options supporting storage capacities of up to 750 litres, there is a variant for most small to mid-sized organisations which is quick and easy to install for minimal operational disturbance.
For larger buildings, a more bespoke system is likely to be required, although the basic premise remains the same, using ASHP preheat and a secondary energy source, preferably electric. It may also be possible to integrate solar thermal technology as a mid-heat to further cut energy demands, by as much as 30% annually to further offset operational costs and reduce emissions.
When building in sustainability through water heating every building, from structure to usage, is different. So before embarking on any major renovation to a water system, it’s always sensible to gather data on current system use and especially the peak demand periods. That is easily achieved through non-invasive water metering which takes approximately a month to collate necessary data to accurately model the building’s requirements. From this data, a thermotical system design can be produced. One that delivers on the building’s demands whilst optimising the equipment necessary which translates usually into lower up-front investment and a better grasp on future operational costs. That is truly valuable as it enables more accurate planning and budgeting before making any initial move towards a more sustainable operation. https://adveco.co/
ACROSPIRE WORK WITH MARWOOD LIGHTING SOLUTIONS TO MAKE THE PRITTLE BROOK GREENWAY SAFER WITH SOLAR-POWERED PATHWAY LIGHTS
Today, solar-powered lighting solutions are providing a costeffective route for local authorities to enhance safety and accessibility along previously unlit paths.
Originally designated the Prittle Brook Greenway after its refurbishment during 2010-2012, this 5.7km route serves as a vital traffic-free connection for cyclists and pedestrians in Southend-on-Sea. Linking urban areas to Woodlands Park in Hadleigh, it offers access to Priory Park, local schools, the hospital, and residential zones. Despite its significance, safety concerns hindered nighttime usage, with 50% of residents avoiding the path after dark due to worries about anti-social behaviour. Responding to community feedback, the Southendon-Sea City Council allocated £225,000 to install lighting along the greenway.
The project was entrusted to the family-run independent business Marwood Lighting Solutions. To enhance safety along the rural Prittle Brook Greenway, the company sought an energy-efficient, off-grid lighting
solution with integrated smart controls.
Marwood Lighting Engineers visited Southend on Sea to survey the 3.5Km of Prittle Brook Greenway between Eastwood Road and Victoria Avenue. This was to ensure that the Defender Solar powered lanterns could illuminate the pathway to BS5489-1:2020 and to review any specific site constraints that would need to be considered for the design proposal.
Marwood’s lighting design team produced plots to determine the optimum spacing between the lanterns and to satisfy Southend on Sea City Council that light spill would be carefully controlled. 6m Raise and lower columns were selected to ensure the scheme could be easily maintained in the future as the site does not allow for vehicle access.
HAMWORTHY HEATING
120 Defender solar-powered lanterns were installed in the positions indicated by the lighting design by Southend’s nominated contractor in a phased programme which Marwood Lighting Solutions supported, stocking the materials and delivering in batches to suit the project roll out over several months. The solution provides a safer environment for pedestrians and cyclists, particularly during evening hours.. For more information on Acrospire’s solar-powered range, please visit https://acrospire.co/ranges/solar/
EXPANDS LOW
CARBON RANGE WITH NEW TYNEHAM CO2 NATURAL REFRIGERANT COMMERCIAL HEAT PUMPS
Now available from Hamworthy Heating, technical experts of commercial heating and hot water products, is the arrival of its new CO2 and CO2Q range of Tyneham monobloc heat pumps with natural refrigerant, to help future proof investments. Designed to achieve high
temperatures of up to 70°C with ultralow global warming potential (GWP) of just one thanks to the use of R744 (CO2) refrigerant, the latest CO2 and CO2Q Tyneham heat pumps are the perfect fit for both new build projects needing an efficient and low carbon solution.
Featuring a co-efficient of performance (CoP) rating of up to 3.4, the latest range of heat pumps from Hamworthy Heating also include an invertor-controlled compressor to match the heat demand of the building accurately and efficiently.
Suitable for larger heating and domestic hot water (DHW) commercial applications, the latest range of Tyneham heat pumps with CO2 refrigerant is available in six models with outputs from 65kW to 130kW in normal and low noise options (Q).
Units can be cascaded to achieve even higher outputs in larger applications.
Suitable for installations where space is of a premium, the new Tyneham CO2 commercial heat pump range can be installed flush against a wall or back-to-back with another unit with minimal installation clearances needed. For a low-carbon hybrid heating solution, the new heat pumps can also be seamlessly combined with Hamworthy Heating boilers, such as the Wessex Modumax MK3.
For more information on the latest range of Tyneham CO2 and CO2Q heat pumps with natural refrigerant or to arrange a site survey, visit: https://hamworthy-heating. com/Products/Commercial-airsource-heat-pumps/Tyneham-CO2CO2Q-air-source-heat-pump
NEW COMMERCIAL HEAT PUMPS TAKE CUSTOMERS ONE STEP FURTHER TOWARDS NET ZERO
The new ECOMOD CO2 monobloc air source heat pumps form part of Ideal Heating Commercial’s range of next generation natural refrigerant heat pumps released in 2024, featuring maximum flow temperatures up to 70°C.
As the name implies, natural refrigerants are those that occur naturally, as opposed to synthetically made. They have a low Global Warming Potential (GWP), making them the environmentally friendly option over their lifetime. In the case of ECOMOD CO2, which uses R744 natural refrigerant, the GWP rating is just 1, making them the ideal choice for customers with net zero commitments. An ultra-low GWP is both good for the planet and the pocket as high GWP refrigerants will only increase in price as they become scarcer.
ECOMOD CO2 heat pumps come in three outputs - 65kW, 95kW and 130kW – with even higher outputs possible when installed in a cascade arrangement, where up to six can be centrally controlled, operating from an intelligent lead controller. A high performing unit, they can operate at a design ambient temperature of -10⁰C, with a seasonal co-efficient of performance (CoP) rating of 3 or better. Furthermore, ECOMOD CO2 can achieve high temperatures up to 70°C, making them suitable for Domestic Hot Water (DHW) applications and district heating systems.
ECOMOD CO2 heat pumps are quiet in operation, but for absolute minimal background noise, a further model in the range - the CO2Q - benefits from a quiet noise level as low as a 71dB(A) rating.
ECOMOD CO2 and ECOMOD 290HT form Ideal Heating Commercial’s range of natural refrigerant heat pumps. As with all ECOMOD heat pumps, they can be installed alongside other Ideal Heating commercial solutions, including the market-leading Evomax 2 and Imax Xtra 2 commercial condensing boilers, to build a low carbon hybrid heating system.
Ideal Heating delivers commercial heating solutions that are at the forefront of technology and developed in line with the latest market trends and legislation. For more information visit: idealcommercialboilers. com/products/ecomod-co2-co2q
IDEAL HEATING EXTENDS EVOJET PRESSURE JET BOILER
RANGE TO 3000KW OUTPUT
Ideal Heating – Commercial Products has announced the addition of four new models to its Evojet pressure jet boilers, extending the range output up to 3000kW. These new models join the existing Evojet range of condensing pressure jet boilers, with outputs starting from 150kW. This brings the range up to 14 boilers, all of which offer high efficiency through their condensing operation and modulation capabilities of the burners.
The new floor standing condensing Evojet 3-pass pressure jet boilers are available with outputs of 1750kW, 2100kW, 2600kW and 3000kW for applications requiring either single or multiple boiler configurations. They are ideally suited to large public utility buildings including hospitals and leisure facilities, heat networks, plus substantial commercial applications, where they can provide a space saving alternative to larger cascades comprising smaller capacity boilers.
These latest Evojet pressure jet boilers feature a double
return condensing system (connections for high or low temperature return water) which enables them to keep the temperature difference between the heat exchanger wall and the return water high, thus maximising the formation of condensation. This, combined with the 3-pass layout, the titanium stabilised stainless steel internal components and extensive insulation, combine to provide a high level of efficiency and reliability.
The new Evojet boilers are suited to use with multiple burner types for maximum flexibility, and modulation of the burner can be provided via 0-10 volt BMS or RWF controller. This allows the boilers to achieve compliance with the seasonal efficiency requirements of Building Regulations Part L Vol.2 2022, and MCPD in regard to NOx emissions.
A two year warranty comes as standard on all Evojet models. For more information on Evojet from Ideal Heating –Commercial Products, visit idealcommercialboilers.com/ products/evojet
WATER EFFICIENCY LESSONS FROM KIMBERLY-CLARK
Becoming more water efficient and operating more sustainably is becoming increasingly important for businesses of all sizes and across all sectors and industries, as the combined pressures of climate change, population growth, urbanisation, pollution, water mismanagement and extreme weather events take their toll on freshwater resources around the world.
It can be useful to look at what some of the biggest global corporations are doing to reduce their water footprint if you’re keen to start improving your blue credentials - and, to this end, fast-moving consumer goods conglomerate KimberlyClark has just published its latest annual sustainability report, revealing that it has successfully hit its 2030 water efficiency targets an impressive seven years ahead of schedule.
The organisation had planned to reduce water consumption at its sites located in water-stressed areas such as China, Indonesia, Brazil, Colombia and El Salvador by half come 2030, but it achieved a 52.8 per cent reduction in 2023 against a 2015 baseline.
These water targets were only set for those locations facing water stress and scarcity issues because Kimberly-Clark’s water consumption is apparently “not as substantial as typical consumer packaged goods companies given its product mix. Therefore, we focus our efforts on where we have the biggest impact”.
The corporation updated its water risk assessments and consumption habits to work out which areas to prioritise, with water leak detection and repair heading the list, as well as rainwater harvesting and the installation of water recycling equipment for cooling tower water.
The company hasn’t just stopped at its own water consumption and inefficiencies, however, and it has also been working alongside other stakeholders to enhance water security in basins where its factories are in operation, such as the Barbosa Mill in Colombia.
Here, work was recently undertaken to pinpoint opportunities for ecological restoration and conservation, collaborating closely with local authorities and non-government organisations to implement the appropriate changes. This model is also now likely to be replicated at other sites as a bastion of water stewardship for the company.
Kimberly-Clark’s overall water footprint strategy involves reducing water consumption and optimising wastewater treatment before it’s returned to the natural environment, using techniques through water resilience, water efficiency and water stewardship approaches.
These techniques include managing public perception, environmental hazards and regulatory compliance, implementing lean water management tools to increase productivity and decrease its water footprint, and direct engagement with the communities where the company operates on local water resource management.
THE LEAN WATER PROGRAMME
Kimberly-Clark has worked to expand its Lean Water Programme to sites in the Asia-Pacific region, with the aim being to mitigate water risks in relation to ageing infrastructure and both water quality and quantity, as well as increasing staff awareness of water operations to reduce waste and compliance costs, while increasing productivity and efficiency across the board.
By creating a workplace culture that focuses on water quality and conservation, ownership and responsibility is afforded to site employees to prioritise water management to a similar degree as they would safety, delivery, quality and cost.
Continuous improvement in water management systems will be driven at its manufacturing facilities through investment in dashboards, metering and real-time visual management tools so that water usage can be made more efficient. Water withdrawals, consumption and discharge for each operational site will be tracked, as well as water use efficiency at those sites that have high water use for manufacturing.
OVERALL PROGRESS
Water aside, other highlights included in this latest sustainability report include building on the company’s 100% Natural Forest Free commitment, protecting biodiversity and working to mitigate climate change. The hope is that the corporation will be more than halfway to achieving this goal by 2030.
Last year, Kimberly-Clark also prioritised utilisation of alternative energy sources like solar power and wind, launching a new virtual purchase power
agreement and an onshore wind farm in Scotland, as well as initiating various renewable power purchase agreements.
And it’s also working to strengthen its product offerings through more sustainable solutions, such as reusable menstrual and incontinence items and its first-ever Kotex paper pouch.
Furthermore, fibre procurement from sources with sustainable forest management certification continues to be prioritised, with other alternative fibre solutions now under investigation.
Plastics is also a top priority for the company, with reductions of 16.4 per cent seen towards its goal of a 50 per cent drop by 2030 against a 2019 baseline.
Chairman and CEO Mike Hsu said: “Sustainability is woven into the fabric of our 152-year-old company’s innovation strategy and purpose, serving as a guiding principle across every facet of our operations. I am proud of our team’s commitment to our purpose of Better Care for a Better World, focusing on where we believe we can make the biggest impact.”
Newly appointed chief sustainability officer Lisa Morden made further comments, saying: “We are proud of our progress and in 2023 we continued to address challenges associated with single-use plastics, carbon emissions and water use in our operations and value chain, while working to decrease forest reliance and increasing our use of renewable energy.
“We recognise that there are still challenges and opportunities ahead and we remain dedicated to supporting a more sustainable future for all.”
WHAT CAN BUSINESSES DO?
Hopefully, all of Kimberly-Clark’s efforts are excellent food for thought, showcasing what can be achieved where water is concerned.
If you’re not sure where to begin, however, get in touch with the Switch Water Supplier team to see how they can help.
They can organise an audit of your entire site so you can gain a deeper understanding of how you use water and where, so you can identify the most appropriate water-saving solutions and adjust these over time to account for the changing needs of your business.
If you’re being billed incorrectly, our services can help have the errors corrected leading to forward savings.
Our water bill data correction is a service directly associated to our water audit1 and water bill validation2 services and can lead to significant forward savings.
Without historical auditing of your water bills and especially since deregulation of the market, where a number of inconsistencies were introduced in to the market data, it’s quite possible your organisation may be being billed incorrectly. These billing errors will continue to go unnoticed unless your bills are audited by someone with the correct experience, who knows exactly what to look for and what to check.
SwitchWaterSupplier.com has potentially unsurpassed experience in exactly this field, and quickly establish the accuracy of your water bills across your entire property portfolio and manage the process of applying for the data to be corrected and reclaiming any overcharges on your behalf.
Once corrected, you may think that your water bills should remain accurate forever more.
However, there are a number of factors that can lead to you paying more than you should, including, for example, corrections that have been agreed but are not later reflected in the bills, and also as a result of a lack of physical meter reads, or an undetected water leak. Our water bill validation service2 continues to pay for itself and ensures you always only pay for the correct water and waste water volumes and realise any potential efficiencies.
For more information about working with us or to switch water supplier call 03300 552532 or email hello@switchwatersupplier.com
| 16 Oct 2024
MEUC’s Autumn Conference and Exhibition
https://meucnetwork.co.uk/events/autumn-conf24/
Continue your journey in October
The second event in MEUC’s Buying and Using Utilities Series brings together delegates, exhibitors, industry experts and policy makers to explore the latest trends, innovations, and strategies in utility management.
Why Attend?
Advanced Insights: Build on your knowledge
Networking Opportunities: Connect with peers and experts
Practical Strategies: Gain tools to optimise your approach
Don’t miss out on the opportunity to learn, connect, and collaborate with other professionals in the energy and water industry. Secure your place today.
