EDITOR’S COMMENT & CONTENTS Making the most of low-carbon heat networks


D


istrict heating and heat networks will play an increasingly important role in the UK’s transition to low-carbon heating, particularly in densely


populated areas where they can provide an efficient, cost-effective alternative to individual heating systems.


However for heat networks to operate successfully, efficiently and sustainably, there are numerous factors that need to be considered. Our district heating feature explores some of these key issues: • Armstrong Fluid Technology discusses two pillars of design which are crucial to futureproofing district heating schemes. (Pg 18) • Carrier Commercial HVAC explores why the best regulatory frameworks are those that protect consumers while giving the industry the flexibility to evolve and this is key when it comes to the expansion of heat networks in the UK. (Pg 20)


8 18


• PPSL District Heating explains why heat networks can be the right solution in areas which are hard to decarbonise, such as dense urban areas and historic buildings. (Pg 22) • LCL Awards, which is running the UK’s first regulated Heat Interface Unit (HIU) qualification, explains why consistent installer competence will be key to delivering efficient heat networks and a positive consumer experience. (Pg 24)


• Also key to the success of heat networks – expected to deliver 20 per cent of the UK’s heating demand by 2050 – is choosing the right HVAC source, according to Klima-Therm. (Pg 26). Other features this month include Retrofit & Sustainable Buildings; Heat Pumps; The Heat & Energy Briefing and a preview to next month’s BESA Conference and Awards.


Heather Ramsden, Editor 30


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The Editor and Publisher do not necessarily agree with the views expressed by contributors, nor do they accept responsibility for any errors in the transmission of the subject matter in this publication. In all matters, the Editor’s decision is final. This issue includes editorial and imagery provided and paid for by suppliers.


ISSN 1042-310


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4 News & Appointments Industry news, appointments and quotes


6 Retrofit & Sustainable Buildings Ventilation upgrades must be at the heart of new NHS investment


7 Retrofit & Sustainable Buildings Heat recovery technology delivers free hot water to food charity


8 Retrofit & Sustainable Buildings Why workplace amenities deserve a place in retrofit planning


9 Retrofit & Sustainable Buildings Cooling without carbon: the case for natural night ventilation


10 Heat & Energy Briefing Protecting hot water systems from the inside out


14 BESA Preview BESA challenges industry to go beyond compliance at annual conference


16 Industry Comment The ‘copper crunch’ is real. Should it change how you specify pipework?


18 District Heating/Heat Networks


Building modular and energy-agnostic district heating schemes


20 District Heating/Heat Networks Heat network standards should build confidence not create barriers


21 Industry Comment Why specifications need to focus on outcomes, not products


22 District Heating/Heat Networks Delivery in heritage buildings and complex urban environments


24 District Heating/Heat Networks Why installer competence is key to performance


26 District Heating/Heat Networks Choosing the right heat source


28 Heat Pumps Driving smarter low-carbon hospital heating


30 Heat Pumps Refrigerant choice becomes a design decision


32 In Focus


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