HVAC SYSTEMS
quality of this data can vary significantly. A project might be supported by the best consultant in the world, but if the data being used is outdated or merely theoretical, the results will be flawed. This is a huge issue when it comes to energy modelling. To ensure accurate financial forecasting, NHS Trusts
should: n Use up-to-date industry standards – for example, heat pump performance should be evaluated using EN 14511-3:2022, which accounts for part load and defrost conditions.6
n Validate manufacturer performance claims – different manufacturers use different methodologies to report efficiency, making direct comparisons difficult. Eurovent Certification offers a performance validation programme for heat pumps through its Eurovent Certified Performance (ECP) programme. This programme verifies various performance characteristics, including capacity outputs, to ensure transparency and allow for fair comparisons between manufacturers.
n Look beyond initial cost – the total cost of ownership (TCO), including energy savings, maintenance, and system lifespan, is a better indicator of long-term value.
Another challenge in NHS decarbonisation is that procurement processes are often driven by lowest-cost tenders, rather than prioritising long-term performance. There is always a tension between cost and quality. You might find a consultant that is cheaper, but in this scenario, cheaper is rarely better. The NHS needs to look at evidence of real-world system performance before selecting partners. By focusing on quality and long-term performance over initial cost, NHS Trusts can avoid falling into this trap, ensuring that heat pumps and heat networks deliver the expected carbon savings and cost reductions over their working life.
Future innovations in heat pump and heat network technology While today’s heat pump and heat network solutions are already delivering major efficiency gains, continuous innovation will play a crucial role in further decarbonising NHS estates. One of the biggest challenges for the NHS is that many
existing buildings still require water for heating at 85 °C, which is beyond the typical capabilities of standard heat pumps. At Carrier, we’re pioneering rapid advancements in high-temperature heat pumps, which will allow hospitals to transition away from gas-fired systems without needing expensive infrastructure upgrades. As manufacturers continue to refine higher-output heat pump technology, this will open up more opportunities for NHS sites to transition to low-carbon heating. Refrigerant technology is another area of innovation, with manufacturers developing low-GWP alternatives to reduce environmental impact. As regulations tighten around high-GWP refrigerants, NHS Trusts will need to ensure that their systems are future-proofed against legislative changes. One of the most exciting developments is the shift towards more intelligent, data-driven system integration. Future heat pump and heat network technologies will: n Optimise energy use in real time based on hospital demand and external conditions.
n Automatically balance heating and cooling loads, reducing energy waste.
n Enable greater connectivity with renewable energy sources and energy storage solutions.
The big shift isn’t just in technology – it’s in how we
For heat pumps to deliver their full decarbonisation potential, hospitals need to take a whole- building approach rather than simply swapping out old boilers for new systems
integrate and manage energy systems. That’s why manufacturers are moving towards a holistic approach, working closely with NHS Trusts from the start.
A collaborative future for NHS decarbonisation The NHS’s Net Zero commitment is ambitious, but achievable – with the right technologies, expertise, and strategic planning. Heat pumps and heat networks will be at the heart of this transformation, but their success will depend on: n Early engagement with manufacturers, ensuring that system designs are optimised from the outset.
n High-quality data and modelling, allowing NHS Trusts to accurately forecast financial and operational benefits.
n Ongoing monitoring and system optimisation, ensuring that heat pumps and heat networks deliver their full potential.
Manufacturers, like Carrier, are committed to working in partnership with the NHS, not just as equipment suppliers, but as long-term decarbonisation partners. Carrier is currently working with several major NHS Trusts and Health Boards around the country to support their strategic plans to decarbonise estates. Crucially, we need to move beyond the traditional hierarchy of procurement, installation, and operation. By collaborating from the start, engaging with consultants, and educating NHS teams, we can create truly integrated energy solutions that help the NHS reach Net Zero by 2040.
References 1 Delivering a ‘Net Zero’ National Health Service. NHS England and NHS Improvement. October 2020.
https://tinyurl.com/ bdc4ec8n.
2 Williams M. A Net Zero NHS: How heat networks can help transform our health service. 10 October 2024. https://
gemserv.com/our-thoughts/a-net-zero-nhs-how-heat- networks-can-help-transform-our-health-service/.
3 Grant P. Winners revealed as NHS plans to spend £500m on decarbonisation. Construction Enquirer. 13 January 2025.
https://tinyurl.com/3fzyt7c6.
4 OPDC pioneers innovative, money-saving technology as one of England’s first Heat Network zones. Mayor of London / London Assembly. 29 October 2024.
https://tinyurl.com/ yrszawbn.
5 Green Heat Network Fund: guidance on how to apply. Department for Energy Security and Net Zero. 4 March 2022.
https://tinyurl.com/2jpkveez.
6 Public Sector Decarbonisation Scheme. Department for Energy Security and Net Zero. 1 October 2020.
https://tinyurl.com/ uzw6adje.
7 24/30487361 DC. BS EN 14511-3:2022/A1 Air conditioners, liquid chilling packages and heat pumps for space heating and cooling and process chillers, with electrically driven compressors. - Part 3: Test methods. bsi. 15 February 2024.
Graham Smith
Graham Smith is Commercial director UK&I at Carrier Commercial HVAC. With extensive expertise in delivering low-carbon heating solutions, Graham plays a key role in helping businesses and public sector organisations transition to energy-efficient, future- proofed heating systems. Passionate about
reducing carbon emissions in commercial buildings, Graham works closely with NHS Trusts, local authorities and commercial clients to develop tailored heating strategies that integrate heat pumps, heat networks and renewable technologies. His experience spans system design, regulatory compliance and long-term energy optimisation, ensuring that organisations achieve both cost savings and sustainability goals. At Carrier, Graham is
dedicated to accelerating the UK & Ireland’s transition to Net Zero, providing expert guidance on modern heating infrastructure that supports long- term energy resilience and environmental responsibility.
October 2025 Health Estate Journal 71
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