PHAM NEWS | DECEMBER/JANUARY 2026 24 Energy Saving Awards


Training Centre of the year Winner:


Octopus Energy for the Training Academy in Sheffield


With a pioneering approach to building the UK’s low-carbon workforce, Octopus Energy opened its purpose-built Sheffield Training Academy in 2024. Spanning 91,923ft2, it provides the capacity to train large cohorts of apprentices and engineers in renewable technologies and energy efficiency, directly addressing the critical shortage of qualified heat pump installers. The Academy delivers


fully-funded, MCS-accredited Low Carbon Heating Technician courses and the UK’s first supplier-led level 3 apprenticeship. These programmes blend classroom learning, practical workshops, and on-site field experience alongside experienced mentors, equipping trainees with the technical competence and customer-focused skills required to meet growing demand. Facilities include life-size mock homes, the interactive ‘Octolab’ for practical demonstrations, and dedicated electrical, plumbing, and


Highly Commended: Carrier Commercial HVAC for the Academy in Bracknell


Judge’s comment: “Simply outstanding achievements at scale which can’t be matched.”


solar PV workshops. Combined with training at Slough, Hinckley, Northern Ireland, and Manchester sites, Octopus provides a comprehensive, scalable pathway for developing skilled low-carbon professionals. Since opening, the Academy has trained over 2,000 engineers and supported the hiring of more than 3,000 people into its energy- saving workforce. The Level 3 Apprenticeship alone received over 2,600 applications for 72 places, demonstrating strong


engagement and market demand. By expanding capacity, improving diversity, and delivering practical, high-quality training, Octopus ensures a sustainable pipeline of skilled professionals to support national decarbonisation targets. Through its combination of scale, innovative training methods and measurable outcomes, Octopus Energy has strengthened the UK’s renewable workforce and accelerated the adoption of low-carbon technologies.


District Energy System of the Year Winner:


Altecnic and Amber Heating for Copper


Beech, Cornwall


The primary objective of the Copper Beech installation was to design and deliver a low-carbon district heating system capable of meeting the heating and hot water demands of six high- end holiday homes in St Issey, Cornwall, while addressing challenges of space, efficiency and sustainability. Altecnic supplied the SATK22307 Direct Heat Interface Units (HIUs) and Dirtmag Mini magnetic filters, which were key to enabling a decentralised approach. These components allow the system to provide instantaneous hot water and heating at low flow temperatures while maintaining long-term reliability and minimising energy losses. Amber Heating managed the installation, translating the design into an operational system that met both technical and practical requirements, ensuring a smooth integration


Carrier’s Bracknell Training Academy represents a major investment in the future of the HVAC industry, delivering measurable results in upskilling the workforce for a low-carbon future. Opened in July 2024, the Academy offers immersive, hands-on learning across chillers, heat pumps, air handling units, controls and refrigerants, all underpinned by a strong focus on sustainability and energy efficiency. What sets Bracknell apart is


the level of live equipment access available to learners – including operational systems and a dedicated low-GWP refrigerant zone – giving trainees real- world confidence before entering


the field. This is reinforced by structured pathways such as Carrier’s apprenticeship programme, which blends field experience with technical modules in installation, commissioning, maintenance and diagnostics. Apprentice intake has already risen by 30%, with a 100% transition from training into permanent roles. Training extends well beyond


apprentices: CIBSE-approved CPDs, refrigerant safety courses and high-efficiency system training are open to employees, customers and industry partners, broadening skills across the sector. Online modules further increase accessibility.


Judge’s comment: “This project has proved that heat networks can provide a premier solution to a development from the outset. ”


at 50°C, limiting distribution losses and ensuring energy is used effectively. In its first year, the system


reduced operational heating costs by over £9,200 compared to a gas equivalent, while cutting CO2 emissions by more than 64% (from 53,060 kg to just 19,121 kg). Over a 20-year lifecycle, the installation is projected to save nearly


of renewable heat generation and decentralised delivery. The system was designed to comply with the Non-Domestic Renewable Heat Incentive (RHI), requiring operation at flow temperatures around 50°C without compromising occupant comfort. Integrating ground source heat pumps with Altecnic’s HIUs means each property receives heating and hot water on demand, eliminating the need for large hot water cylinders and removing standby losses associated with traditional storage systems.


The Dirtmag Mini filters


protect the network from debris and magnetic particulates, maintaining efficiency and reducing maintenance demands, a critical consideration for holiday homes with limited access for servicing. System performance demonstrates clear energy and environmental benefits. The heat pump operates at a seasonal Coefficient of Performance (COP) of 3.7-3.8, compared with a typical UK average of 2.5-2.8, delivering nearly four units of heat for each unit of electricity consumed. Heat is supplied


£250,000 and avoid close to 700,000 kg of carbon emissions. Energy consumption was also significantly reduced, dropping from 286,810 kWh to 60,381 kWh. These performance outcomes not only validated the decision to implement a decentralised, low- temperature heating solution, but also supported the homes in achieving A-rated energy efficiency. The community billing


scheme implemented as part of the project made heating more affordable for homeowners, making the system financially attractive as well as environmentally responsible. The project delivered further


benefits beyond energy savings. Decentralised HIUs freed internal space in each


home, enhancing layouts and simplifying plant room design. By combining renewable heat generation, decentralised control, and protective measures, the Copper Beech installation demonstrates that district heating principles can be effectively applied at a smaller scale. It provides a model for compact, sustainable residential developments where efficiency, comfort and long-term reliability are all priorities.


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