Energy Manager Magazine October 2025

OCTOBER 2025

INSIDE

PUBLISHER: Ralph Scrivens ralph@ energymanagermagazine.co.uk

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Please Note:

UK INDUSTRY RISKS FALLING BEHIND WITHOUT FLEXIBLE STEAM SOLUTIONS, WARNS NEW AGGREKO REPORT

A new report from Aggreko has revealed that outdated steam infrastructure and inflexible procurement strategies are placing UK industry at risk of reduced productivity, reduced resilience and higher operating costs.

Tto minimise downtime and ensure operational efficiency,” said Richard Smith, Steam Product and Application Specialist at Aggreko Europe.

itled Under pressure? Alleviating steam system strain in industry, the report examines the critical role of steam in industrial operations and highlights the growing challenges faced by engineering, production, and procurement managers. With 73% of the UK’s industrial energy demand used for heat – and steam systems accounting for over a third of this – inefficiencies in steam provision significantly impact operational performance and emissions.

The report identifies key barriers to progress, including reliance on oversized, ageing boilers, lack of resilience, and limited access to modern steam technologies. It also explores why many businesses struggle to navigate commercial pressures amid volatile energy prices and supply chain disruptions.

“In today’s industrial landscape, flexibility is becoming increasingly vital

“Aggreko has observed a growing readiness to adopt rapidly deployable, efficient steam solutions on a modular, temporary basis. However, businesses need the right support to implement these systems. As this report explains, third-party expertise plays a crucial role in providing the flexibility and knowledge required to match the right steam solution to each plant’s unique needs.”

Aggreko’s new report suggests that modular, containerised steam systems offer a practical solution to the challenges facing UK industry. These systems can be rapidly deployed and commissioned without complex logistics or installation processes, and their capacity can be easily scaled. They therefore enable businesses to minimise both planned and unplanned downtime, respond swiftly to altered demand, and maintain operational continuity. Additionally, they provide a flexible short- to long-term alternative to costly permanent infrastructure.

“Businesses across Europe are increasingly looking to replace or improve outdated steam infrastructure,”

Richard concludes. “But they’re caught in a difficult position, looking to overall improve site efficiency while balancing everyday pressures such as reduced budgets and operational uncertainty,” Smith added.

“The challenge extends beyond simply upgrading equipment – it involves navigating a complex landscape of energy volatility, ageing infrastructure and shifting regulations. That’s why the focus must shift from technology alone to building resilience and strengthening adaptability – through informed planning and strong, ongoing strategic partnerships.”

The report also introduces Aggreko’s latest generation of lowemission steam boilers, designed for rapid deployment, high efficiency, and compatibility with greener fuels such as hydrotreated vegetable oil (HVO). These systems are part of Aggreko’s Greener Upgrades™ portfolio and reflect the company’s commitment to making efficient, cleaner technologies, and the expertise to implement them, more accessible through its sustainability framework, Energising Change™.

Read Under pressure? Alleviating steam system strain in industry: www.aggreko.com/en-gb/products/

NEW TEAM ENERGY REPORT REVEALS COST, TECH, AND SKILLS ARE HINDERING UK ORGANISATIONS’ NET ZERO PROGRESS

New research from TEAM Energy, a leading multidisciplinary energy consultancy, shows that while many UK organisations are committed to the UK’s net-zero journey, most are not on track to meet the deadlines, with several structural challenges undermining their ability to decarbonise and jeopardising the UK’s net zero agenda.

The survey report, ‘Carbon Countdown: Progress Towards Net Zero’ shows that almost half of organisations have made a formal commitment to achieve net zero emissions (49%), yet a large majority are currently not on track to hit them. Only 2% say they are extremely confident their organisation will meet their net zero deadline. By far the biggest challenge facing UK organisations is financial constraints (76%), leading many organisations to call for greater levels of support in the form of accessible financial aid (72%). Organisations also say they are lacking the technology, training and guidance (63%), and policy clarity (44%) to make meaningful progress towards their netzero targets. Over a third of organisations

say technological limitations (39%) are a major challenge, while 33% of organisations are lacking the expertise they need.

Graham Paul, Service Delivery Director at TEAM Energy, said: “We consistently see organisations that want to deliver net zero hamstrung by a lack of expertise, tools and funding. And many of those who do have the resources are missing the independent validation needed to decarbonise. Without addressing these challenges, organisations could lose the momentum behind net-zero projects, undermining their potential for progress and success.”

Most organisations (55%) haven’t had their net zero planning independently validated, risking the effectiveness of the plans – and putting their brand reputations at risk in case of failing to meet them. On top of this, just under half of organisations surveyed (48%) rate their organisation’s progress as ‘fair’, and 27% of respondents report they are ‘not so’ or ‘not at all’ confident their organisations will meet their stated deadlines.

Graham Paul said: “Given the size of the transformation required, I’m impressed

with the achievements so far of many UK organisations, especially considering net zero has only been a UK target for six years. But now is the time for organisations to work closely with the right partners and take a structured approach to net zero planning: reducing emissions, auditing energy use, setting Science Based Target initiative (SBTi) aligned targets, investing in their workforce, and embedding sustainability in top-level leadership decisions. Without this, they risk putting time and effort into ineffective and unproven strategies. I’m confident that with the right support, this approach can deliver results.”

The report captures insights from organisations from all sectors and of all sizes, building a comprehensive picture of where UK businesses stand and the support required to accelerate their transition. Alongside the insights, it has concrete recommendations and practical steps that organisations can take today, download a copy here: https://www.teamenergy.com/carboncountdown-progress-towards-net-zero/

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BILLIONS IN GRID CONNECTION REBATES GOING UNCLAIMED AS UK DEVELOPERS MISS OUT ON ‘FREE MONEY’

Vattenfall IDNO’s new consultancy service aims to close the knowledge gap after 65% of decision-makers admit they’ve never heard of IDNOs.

Ashocking knowledge gap is costing UK developers and the public sector billions of pounds in missed funding. According to Vattenfall IDNO, a regulated Independent Distribution Network Operator, 65% of Facilities Managers, Energy and Sustainability Managers, and Development Directors they’ve spoken to were not aware of the role IDNOs can play in reducing project costs.

At the heart of this oversight is the Asset Adoption Value (AAV) – a regulated rebate paid when an IDNO adopts the grid connection assets required for a new connection. The size of the AAVs is based on the type and size of the grid connection and can significantly reduce the overall cost of electrical grid upgrades but are frequently overlooked, or claimed by contractors without the client ever knowing.

“Developers are missing a trick,” says Suzanna Lashford, Head of Business Development at Vattenfall IDNO. “This is effectively free money – a regulated rebate that offsets capital expenditure. Yet it’s still flying under the radar for more than half of the people involved in procuring new grid connections within the public sector and the wider construction industry.”

This knowledge gap is particularly relevant to the public sector, where upgrades for EV infrastructure, electric boilers, decarbonisation or new building projects routinely struggle for funding.

SIMPLE GRID CONNECTIONS: A GAME-CHANGER FOR SUB-2MVA PROJECTS

To close the knowledge gap and simplify the process, Vattenfall IDNO has launched Simple Grid Connections, a new consultancy service specifically designed for commercial developers, UK businesses, and public sector organisations requiring grid connections under 2MVA.

For just £1500, the service provides:

• Expert analysis to find the most costeffective Point of Connection

• Full support for grid connection applications and amendments

A mini tender process to reduce contestable works costs

A detailed quote including an Asset Adoption rebate

• Free legal support for wayleaves and land rights

• A money-back guarantee: If they cannot

save the client money on their overall connection fees, they will refund the Vattenfall consultancy fees.

“We created the Simple Grid Connections service to take the pain and confusion out of grid upgrades,” says Bilgin Oralerkaya, a Senior Business Developer, and Manager of grid consultancy service at Vattenfall IDNO.

“There’s so much money being left on the table – whilst carbon reduction and net zero projects struggle for funding – it’s a crazy situation! Commercial grid applications can be complex for people who are not familiar with the process but our team has developed a powerful tool to help clients identify a suitable Point of Connection and can submit grid applications on their behalf, which massively reduces the administrative burden, maximises the chances their application being approved, and saves them money at the same time.”

BILLIONS IN AAVS UNCLAIMED

With construction costs rising and sustainability targets tightening, every pound matters but industry insiders estimate that billions of pounds in potential AAV rebates remain unclaimed across the UK due to lack of awareness or poor advice.

Ron Plunz, Director at Alumno Group that designs and builds student accommodation, has benefitted directly from Vattenfall’s service:

“We’re incredibly glad we reached out to Vattenfall IDNO to adopt the grid connection for our latest student accommodation project. The original quote from the local DNO for contestable works was significantly higher than expected, but Vattenfall offered a much more competitive solution. Their Asset Adoption Value and tendering process helped us reduce our connection fees by 95% – a huge saving that made a real difference to the viability of the scheme. Their support, transparency, and expertise were outstanding throughout.”

The message is clear: grid upgrades cost less if developers work directly with an IDNO to adopt the assets. With the launch of Simple Grid Connections, Vattenfall IDNO is arming the UK property sector with the tools – and the knowledge – to make smarter, more affordable energy infrastructure decisions.

https://idno.vattenfall.co.uk/gridconnections-consultancy/

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THE TRUE COST OF CLEAN ENERGY FOR UK BUSINESSES: WHAT ENERGY MANAGERS NEED TO KNOW

Most energy professionals will be familiar with Labour’s Clean Power 2030 commitment.

The pledge to generate 95% of the UK’s electricity from clean sources within this decade is bold, ambitious, and has been broadly welcomed as a progress towards a more sustainable energy system.

But what does it mean for large energy consumers, especially organisations with high demand, and what is the actual cost of clean energy?

RAPID CHANGE AHEAD

The scale of change is unprecedented. Currently the UK generates just over a third of its electricity from gas. By 2030, this must fall below 5%. Filling the gap will require a considerable expansion of renewable capacity, led by offshore wind.

Capacity must increase from 15GW today to 50GW by the end of the decade, while solar generation is set to triple. To achieve this, the UK will need to contract as much new offshore wind capacity in the next two years as has been delivered over the past six.

A £60 BILLION INFRASTRUCTURE BILL

Delivering this scale of renewables also means building the infrastructure to connect and transport power. Around 5,500 km of new grid capacity is needed in the next five years, more than double what has been built in the past decade. Together with wider system upgrades, this could cost around £60 billion. Much of that will ultimately be recovered from customers over many years.

RISE IN NON-ENERGY CHARGES

The portion of bills that pays for networks and levies, known as non-commodity costs, will take the brunt of this shift. Three charges in particular are likely to be impacted.

• Contracts for Difference provide developers with a guaranteed price

Louise Ward, Head of Optimisation and Customer Costs, npower Business Solutions

for power, ensuring new projects are financially viable. They are central to delivering Clean Power 2030, but they come at a cost. CfD charges could rise from around £10/MWh today to nearly £30/MWh by 2030.

• Transmission costs will also rise. With the network needing to grow four times faster than in the last decade, operators expect their investment to double. For businesses, that means annual charges could also double. A customer in the lowest high voltage band, for instance, could see costs increase from £8,000 in 2025/26 to £25,000 by 2030/31. Balancing costs are also likely to increase. These cover the cost of ensuring supply meets demand and are already heavily influenced by constraint costs, payments to generators who cannot sell their output because the grid cannot accommodate it. Unless the grid expands in step with renewables, balancing costs could rise from £12/MWh now to around £20/MWh by 2030.

THE KNOCK ON TO COMMODITY COSTS

In the short-term, the greater reliance on homegrown renewables will not immediately translate into lower wholesale prices. Gas will continue to set the marginal price for some years, and with more renewable generation coming under CfD arrangements, forward market liquidity will shrink. As a result, organisations may find it more complex and more costly to hedge far out on the curve. Liquidity is likely to concentrate in the day ahead market, leaving energy managers more exposed to short-term swings.

LIQUIDITY DOWN, VOLATILITY UP

An increase in volatility means procurement strategies need to adapt. The traditional reliance on forward hedging will be harder to sustain, while volatility will become more of a yearround challenge. With more weatherdependent generation, price swings will not just appear in winter peaks but could arise from day to day, depending on wind speeds and solar output.

PUBLIC SECTOR PRESSURES

For the public sector, these issues present an even sharper test. Councils, NHS trusts, universities and schools are under pressure to cut emissions while managing constrained budgets. Rising non-commodity costs will make long-term financial planning more difficult, while varied estates often limit the scope for demand flexibility. Strict procurement frameworks can also make it harder for public bodies to respond quickly in volatile markets.

LOOKING AHEAD

Clean Power 2030 is a once-ina-generation chance to cut carbon and improve energy security. While in the long-term, this could result in lower prices, for energy managers, the challenge is to prepare now for a system where non-commodity charges rise, forward markets thin out, and volatility increases.

Energy managers who act now by rethinking procurement, building flexibility, and strengthening resilience will be better equipped to control costs, manage risk, and capture the opportunities of a clean energy future. www.npowerbusinesssolutions.com

We’re on a mission to save the planet

Creating better places to live and work, inspiring organisations to achieve net zero.

Every day our expert teams are committed to supporting organisations achieve their carbon reduction targets, improving the lives of communities across the country.

We’re committed to working with governments across the UK to reduce our carbon emissions

Our job is to deliver and administer grant and loan funding on behalf of the Department for Energy Security and Net Zero, Scottish and Welsh governments and more. This is delivered across the public sector as well as housing with schemes including the Social Housing Decarbonisation Fund and Public Sector Decarbonisation Scheme.

We’re also proud to be work in partnership with Greater Manchester Combined Authority (GMCA) supporting the new Public Building Retrofit fund.

We are passionate about delivering energy efficiency projects across the UK, making buildings across the public sector as well as our homes better places in which to live, work and enjoy.

We are keen to help create spaces where people can thrive, whether it’s hospitals, schools, leisure centres or homes. We’re on a mission to save the planet.

Find out more about us through our website where we have a variety of tools and resources available.

We also host a series of events – have a look at our events area of our website and sign up to a webinar.

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BEYOND THE BUZZWORD: Driving real sustainability in data centre cooling

Sustainability has become a catch-all word in the data centre industry. You see it in every investor presentation, government policy and marketing campaign. The rise of AI has only amplified the pressure, with headlines warning about the “environmental cost” of every ChatGPT query or new GPU cluster.

But too often, the conversation is oversimplified. Take the UK’s National Drought Group, which recently suggested that deleting old emails could help conserve water. On the same list: shorter showers and fixing leaks. As a message, it raised eyebrows across our sector.

Yes, water usage matters. But reducing a national debate on sustainability to email storage risks trivialising complex challenges. Oversimplified messages like that can backfire, raising a bigger question: How should we talk honestly about the environmental impact of data centres without misrepresenting the reality?

THE WATER DEBATE

When it comes to cooling, water is one of the first things critics point to. Yet the reality is often misrepresented.

In the UK, nearly two-thirds of data centres don’t use water at all. Of those that do, only 4% consume more than 100,000 cubic metres annually. To put that into context, a single London golf club reportedly uses 85,000 cubic metres a year. The scales just don’t compare.

And, crucially, the water used in data centre cooling doesn’t “disappear.” It’s recycled, reused and returned to the water table. In fact, in many cases, using water can lower electricity demand and reduce carbon emissions. That shouldn’t automatically be seen as a negative.

The truth is, we need a more balanced debate. Data centres are an easy target because most people who don’t work in the sector don’t understand what happens inside – and, let’s be honest, the industry doesn’t always help itself, operating out of windowless sheds and often hidden behind strict NDAs.

But if we want meaningful sustainability progress, we have to start with honest numbers and fair comparisons.

AVOIDING GREENWASHING

That same principle applies beyond water.

In cooling, much of the sustainability conversation has been dominated by Scope 2 and 3 emissions reporting. From

Matt Evans, CEO at Lennox Data Centre Solutions

a manufacturer’s perspective, these numbers can be massaged on paper without reflecting real-world impact.

That’s why we’ve taken a different approach at Lennox Data Centre Solutions; instead, focusing on tangible design improvements. By eliminating materials like foam insulation and HFCs, and optimising sheet metal use, we’ve cut hundreds of kilograms of weight per unit.

Multiply that across thousands of units, and the material savings – and environmental benefits – add up fast. And with over 1,000 solar panels set to be installed at our Genas factory in Lyon by 2026, these product-level gains are matched by sitewide initiatives that further cut emissions and support the UN Global Compact.

This is how you make sustainability real. Not by declaring yourself “the greenest” in the room, but by embedding practical, measurable improvements into every product you build, and – where possible – the space in which they are created.

MEETING CUSTOMER PRIORITIES

Beyond sustainability, customers have many other priorities and focuses. They also want to know: Will it arrive on time? Will it work reliably? Will it hit the right price point? Our role is to build systems that deliver reliably and costeffectively, while simultaneously reducing environmental impact where we can.

That’s why we take an engineeringled, collaborative approach. From logistics and installation to lifecycle support, we work with customers to anticipate problems and eliminate chaos. That’s where sustainability can slot in naturally, without slowing delivery or inflating costs.

It’s also why our ApX Series isn’t an ‘off-the-shelf’ product line. Each system is built around the specific challenges our customers face – from rising rack densities to footprint constraints –ensuring that cooling performance, efficiency and reliability are tailored to the real world, not just the spec sheet.

I grew up in design and build, learning my trade ‘on the job’. That grounding is exactly why I value solutions that are engineered for reality, not just theory. In practice, it means operators aren’t buying a generic unit, but a solution engineered to solve their unique problems today while adapting to tomorrow’s demands.

THE CASE FOR SMARTER REGULATION

Looking ahead, regulation is both inevitable and welcome – if it’s done properly. Some European countries have started introducing cooling mandates, but these are still early-stage.

The challenge with those changes, though, comes when decisions are made top-down without enough input from the people actually building these systems. That leads to box-ticking exercises and unintended consequences.

Done right, regulation provides clarity, levels the playing field and can even accelerate project delivery by cutting through red tape.

Despite Brexit, the UK remains a critical hub for data centres. Historically, that’s been due to available power and expertise; but in today’s AI-driven economy, politics is also playing a role.

And with AI’s growth increasingly tied to national competitiveness, the UK wants to position itself as a leader. It’s just over a year since data centres were formally recognised as Critical National Infrastructure, and in that time the conversation around sustainability has only intensified.

That makes scalable, efficient cooling infrastructure an even more important part of the bigger picture – enabling growth while keeping environmental impact in check.

MOVING BEYOND THE BUZZWORD

The challenges we face are real: extreme rack densities, supply chain volatility, fostering new talent while sustaining a highly skilled workforce, and rising scrutiny from regulators and the public. But the way through isn’t soundbites or overhyped efficiency claims.

It’s steady, practical progress. Smarter design to cut waste, honest communication about water and energy use, collaborative delivery that aligns with customer priorities and regulation shaped with, and by, industry expertise.

Sustainability in cooling won’t be solved overnight, and it won’t be solved with buzzwords, but if we focus on what we can do, and do it consistently, the impact at scale will be real.

That’s how we move beyond the marketing fluff, and build the homes the internet will live in for decades to come.

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THE POWER OF CONNECTION: HOW PEER-TO-PEER NETWORKING DRIVES BUSINESS SUCCESS

Claire Slade, Communications Manager, MEUC

In today’s complex utilities environment, no business can thrive in isolation. Market volatility, regulatory shifts, new technologies, and growing sustainability expectations mean that every organisation is navigating change on multiple fronts. Companies face unique challenges but also share common pressures – with that comes the opportunity to learn and collaborate.

This is the essence of peer-to-peer and B2B networking: building relationships, sharing knowledge, and creating solutions that benefit not only individual organisations but also the wider industry. At the MEUC, we see this every day, as members exchange insights, benchmark approaches, and collaborate on energy and water management solutions.

THE BENEFITS

• Shared knowledge and expertise. No two organisations are identical, yet many face similar issues: how to navigate volatile energy markets, negotiate contracts effectively, comply with regulations, or integrate new sustainability goals into procurement. Networking allows businesses to tap into the collective knowledge of their peers. Lessons learned by one organisation – whether in hedging strategies, on-site generation, or demand flexibility – can quickly translate into new approaches for another.

• Trustworthy, real-world insights. Advice from suppliers, consultants, and policymakers has its place, but nothing is quite as valuable as hearing directly from those “in the trenches.” Peer conversations are candid and rooted in lived experience. They can uncover both pitfalls to avoid and best practices worth replicating, giving businesses a clearer picture of what works in practice rather than theory.

• Efficiency and problem-solving. Networking shortens the learning curve. Instead of spending weeks or months testing approaches in isolation, businesses can leapfrog challenges by learning from others who have already trialled solutions. This efficiency is particularly valuable when operating under tight budgets, timeframes, or regulatory deadlines.

• Benchmarking and performance improvement. Peer-to-peer forums allow businesses to compare their performance and practices against others in their sector. This benchmarking provides a reality check and can highlight areas where improvement is needed – or where an organisation is leading the way.

For senior decisionmakers, these insights can directly inform strategy.

• Relationship building and collaboration opportunities. B2B networking isn’t only about knowledgesharing; it also lays the foundation for longerterm partnerships. Whether it’s co-developing a sustainability project, collaborating on innovation pilots, or simply maintaining trusted contacts in the industry, these relationships often become a source of tangible business value.

FOSTERING COLLABORATION AND KNOWLEDGE-SHARING

At MEUC, fostering these connections is at the heart of what we do. Our mission has always been to create spaces where major energy and water users can exchange ideas openly, share experiences, and collectively raise their voices in the marketplace and with policymakers.

• Events that bring people together. Our flagship Buying & Using Utilities Live conferences and exhibitions are designed with networking front and centre. Each session brings together experts, suppliers, and end-users to discuss challenges and opportunities, while the exhibition floor and breaks provide the perfect environment for informal exchanges. Members consistently tell us that the most valuable takeaways often come from conversations in the margins – discussions sparked over coffee in the exhibition hall.

• Targeted webinars and updates. Beyond major events, our regular webinars offer members the chance to engage with peers on specific issues – from electricity procurement to water regulation. These sessions are interactive, giving participants the chance to pose questions, share experiences, and hear from fellow professionals grappling with the same issues.

• A trusted, independent community. What makes MEUC unique is its neutrality. As an independent body representing the interests of major users, we provide a safe space for open discussion. Members know they can share experiences candidly, without concern for sales pitches or agendas. This trust creates the conditions for genuine collaboration.

• Supporter and partner collaboration. We also create avenues for members to engage constructively with suppliers and service providers. By framing these interactions around education and collaboration – rather than simply sales – we help build stronger, more productive relationships that benefit all parties.

A COMMUNITY THAT WORKS TOGETHER

The challenges ahead for major energy and water users are significant: achieving net zero targets, adapting to market reforms, ensuring resilience in an era of climate uncertainty, and delivering value in tough economic conditions. No organisation can face these challenges alone.

For the MEUC Community, the value is immediate – practical insights, contacts, and solutions – and long-term, in the form of relationships that support their businesses for years to come.

In a rapidly changing landscape, the organisations that succeed will not be those that go it alone, but those that embrace the power of community. By connecting, collaborating, and sharing knowledge, MEUC members are not just keeping pace with change – they are helping to shape the future of how utilities are bought, managed, and used. www.meucnetwork.co.uk

THE LABOUR SURGE: WHAT THE UK’S RENEWABLE ENERGY AGENDA MEANS FROM A LEGAL PERSPECTIVE

Since Keir Starmer was elected as Prime Minister last summer, the key policy signals around the energy agenda have revealed a deliberate attempt not merely to accelerate renewable deployment, but to reshape the regulatory and market structures through which energy is developed, financed and delivered.

For businesses, communities and individuals these changes amount to far more than policy headlines. They are creating new obligations, opportunities and risks in areas ranging from planning law to procurement, from subsidy frameworks to corporate governance. For legal practitioners the implications are profound – we have moved from incremental evolution to an environment defined by policy acceleration and structural transformation.

A YEAR OF CHANGE

Perhaps the most transformative move so far is the launch of Great British Energy, the new publicly owned energy company. Having received Royal Assent in May 2025, GBE has been allocated £8.3 billion for strategic investments across the sector, marking a clear shift towards the state acting not only as regulator but also as market participant.

For investors and developers this raises novel legal questions: how will competition law apply where the state is both referee and player? What procurement frameworks will govern GBE partnerships? How will accountability to Parliament intersect with contractual obligations to commercial partners? These questions will shape transactions in the years to come.

Aside from that headline grabbing policy, one of Labour’s first energy acts was to scrap restrictions that had effectively halted new onshore wind development in England since 2015, reopening a development pathway that had been politically frozen for nearly a decade. For developers, communities and local authorities the legal questions are now less about whether projects can proceed and more about how planning frameworks, community benefit models and grid capacity will shape delivery.

Labour’s first Contracts for Difference (CfD) auction also marked a notable expansion in renewable generation

With the Labour Party having just passed its first year in government, the direction of travel is clear: the UK’s energy future will be green, publicly anchored and legally reconfigured. Samuel Mills, charted legal executive at Roythornes Solicitors, explores the legal perspective of what this means.

capacity, with offshore wind making up a significant share of awards. Estimates suggest as much as 4.9GW could come online from this round alone, and the government’s commitment to faster and larger auctions means developers will need legal support at pace, particularly around subsidy compliance and procurement law.

Energy secretary Ed Miliband has also made clear that solar is back on the agenda both at utility and rooftop scale. Commitments to streamline planning processes for solar farms and to expand rooftop deployment will inevitably generate legal friction around agricultural land use, biodiversity net gain obligations and local opposition – somewhere which lawyers will play a critical role in advising on project viability, connection prioritisation and disputes over grid access.

THE LEGAL MARKET’S NEW REALITY

These developments have significantly reframed the market around energy, and that is already having an impact on businesses, communities and individuals.

For businesses, Labour’s agenda signals a need to embed compliance and resilience into their energy strategies. Supply chain audits, land acquisition contracts and subsidy applications will all demand more rigorous legal oversight.

From a community perspective, the return of onshore wind and the growth of solar mean a fresh wave of consultation processes, community benefit agreements and potential disputes. Legal practitioners will increasingly be asked to balance local consent with national policy imperatives.

When it comes to the impact on the individual, the implications will be felt most directly in consumer rights, energy pricing and the regulation of new

technologies from home batteries to rooftop solar leases. Clear contractual frameworks will be essential to avoid mis-selling scandals of the type that dogged earlier renewable rollouts.

Labour’s first year has laid the groundwork for what amounts to a reconfiguration of the UK’s energy landscape, anchored in public investment, legislative reform and a commitment to net zero by 2030. Crucially this reconfiguration is not linear: it is political, accelerated and structural, and the creation of GBE, the removal of planning barriers and the expansion of subsidy mechanisms all point to a state that is no longer a distant regulator but an active participant.

CLOSING ARGUMENT

For the legal profession this demands a broader advisory perspective, one that integrates regulatory, commercial and public law dimensions. Practitioners must engage with clients not only as legal counsel but as interpreters of a shifting political economy. Success in this environment will rest on agility, foresight and an ability to anticipate how today’s legislative reforms will shape tomorrow’s disputes and opportunities.

Labour’s surge into the renewable space has changed the rules of the game. The next phase of the UK’s energy transition will be shaped as much by legal frameworks as by technological innovation. For businesses, communities and individuals alike the challenge will be to navigate a landscape where law, policy and politics are more tightly intertwined than ever before.

The energy transition is no longer just an environmental project – it is a legal one too. https://www.roythorne.co.uk/

BUILDING SUSTAINABLE ENERGY FOR THE FUTURE OF DATA CENTRES

Ben Pritchard, CEO, AVK

As digital technologies continue to shape the modern world, data centres have emerged as vital infrastructure underpinning countless sectors, from finance and healthcare to artificial intelligence and entertainment.

However, with their growing significance comes an equally expanding environmental footprint. As the urgency to address climate change intensifies, the spotlight is firmly on how data centres can balance rising demand with responsible energy management.

oil

Effective energy strategies are essential to minimise environmental impact and ensure resilience, grid stability, and long-term operational viability. In today’s environment, achieving sustainability goals requires immediate action and a long-term vision. The data centre sector is uniquely placed to lead by example, demonstrating how innovation, flexibility, and collaboration can forge a path toward a net zero future.

CLOSING THE GAP BETWEEN DEMAND AND SUPPLY

Data centres are among the most energy-intensive facilities globally, with demand projected to rise steadily in the coming years. According to industry forecasts, global electricity consumption from data centres could reach up to 8% of total demand by 2030. Meanwhile, while promising, the expansion of renewable energy infrastructure has not yet matched the pace required to meet this growing need sustainably.

Bridging this gap calls for adaptable, forward-thinking energy management strategies. Deploying scalable microgrid solutions that integrate renewables such as solar and wind alongside transitional fuels like hydrotreated

offers a pragmatic route to strengthening both on-site and grid-level resilience. These hybrid systems allow data centres to optimise their own energy use while contributing to broader energy transition efforts.

HARNESSING FLEXIBILITY FOR GRID STABILITY

In the shift towards a greener energy landscape, grid flexibility is paramount. Data centres have a significant opportunity to support grid stability by adopting intelligent energy management systems. By embracing technologies that enable dynamic load management, on-site energy storage, and grid-responsive operations, facilities can become active participants in balancing energy supply and demand.

Microgrids, particularly when combined with smart control technologies, allow facilities to operate independently or in synchrony with the main grid. During periods of peak demand, surplus energy can be exported back to the grid, reducing the need for carbon-intensive peaking plants. This approach transforms data centres from passive energy consumers into active contributors to a more sustainable and resilient energy system.

Looking ahead, the integration of large-scale campuses – sometimes exceeding 1 GW of capacity – into local energy ecosystems will become

increasingly critical. Flexible energy assets will not only underpin site reliability but will also play a central role in national decarbonisation strategies.

PREPARING FOR TOMORROW WITH INNOVATION TODAY

While the ultimate renewable energy mix for data centres is still evolving, it is crucial to design and implement energy systems with future fuels in mind. Hydrogen, biogas, sustainable aviation fuels (SAFs), and other emerging technologies will form essential parts of tomorrow’s decarbonised energy landscape.

Forward-looking designs incorporating adaptability ensure that today’s investments remain relevant as the energy landscape evolves. Systems engineered for fuel flexibility can transition seamlessly from current lowcarbon alternatives to fully renewable fuels, future-proofing infrastructure and reducing the risk of stranded assets.

Innovation must also extend beyond technology. Investing in the next generation of skilled engineers, project managers, and energy specialists is fundamental. Training programmes, apprenticeships, and industry collaborations are vital to cultivating a workforce ready to meet the complex challenges of sustainable energy management in data centres.

vegetable

(HVO)

COLLABORATING ACROSS THE ECOSYSTEM

Achieving meaningful progress towards net zero demands extensive collaboration across the supply chain and wider community. Early engagement between power systems specialists, renewable energy providers, planning authorities, and utility companies can unlock synergies that drive more effective project outcomes.

For instance, planning data centres as integrated components of local energy ecosystems opens up opportunities for waste heat recovery. Excess thermal energy generated during data centre operations can be harnessed to supply district heating networks, benefitting residential developments, swimming pools, and businesses. Proactive stakeholder engagement can help identify such opportunities early, ensuring that projects deliver broader societal benefits and foster positive community relationships.

Collaboration can also help optimise energy strategies across portfolios. Coordinated approaches to load balancing, site clustering, and shared renewable generation

assets could further reduce emissions and enhance the digital economy’s overall sustainability.

THE ROLE OF STANDARDS AND POLICY SUPPORT

While technology and collaboration are critical, supportive regulatory frameworks and industry standards are equally important. Clear policies that incentivise the deployment of lowcarbon technologies enable flexible grid participation and encourage investment in future-ready infrastructure, which will accelerate the journey towards sustainable data centre operations.

The development of internationally recognised green certifications and energy performance standards for data centres is also helping to raise the bar across the industry. These frameworks not only provide benchmarks for best practices but also offer reassurance to stakeholders that sustainability claims are underpinned by verifiable metrics.

Organisations operating within this sector must advocate for policies that enable progress while remaining agile enough to adapt to evolving requirements. Building an open,

transparent dialogue with regulators and policymakers will be key to shaping a supportive landscape that enables innovation to flourish.

CONCLUSION

The transition to a net zero future represents one of our time’s most complex and urgent challenges, and data centres have a critical role to play. Through strategic energy management, innovative system design, flexible operations, and broad collaboration, the sector can redefine its relationship with the environment.

Energy management is no longer a back-end concern but fundamental to business resilience, reputation, and responsibility. By embracing technologies and approaches that bridge today’s realities with tomorrow’s aspirations, data centres can not only meet the demands of the digital economy but also do so in a way that champions environmental stewardship and social responsibility.

The path ahead will require ambition, investment, and ingenuity, but it offers immense opportunity for those ready to lead the way. www.avkuk.co.uk

SMART ENERGY MANAGEMENT IN MULTI-SITE PBSA

In the highly competitive PurposeBuilt Student Accommodation (PBSA) sector, multi-site operators need systems that don’t just work, they need systems that drive operational efficiency, cut costs, and enhance the student experience across their entire property portfolio. That’s exactly why many nationwide PBSA providers are specifying smart energy management systems.

At the heart are centralised cloud-based management platforms. Operators monitor and control space heating, water heating, leak detection, water wastage, kitchen safety and utility consumption across multiple sites from a single dashboard. This eliminates the need for costly site visits or time-consuming manual adjustments. Whether managing 300 or 30,000 bedrooms, smart management gives complete control, visibility and intelligence at scale –delivering consistency and peace of mind.

Cost reduction is immediate and measurable. Prefect Irus intelligently controls heating at the room level, using occupancy detection and tailored heating schedules to ensure that energy is only used when necessary. Rooms aren’t heated when empty, and students have sufficient control to adjust their environment within pre-set limits. For operators managing thousands of rooms, these small savings compound into significant annual reductions in energy consumption and utility costs. 50% savings on heating load are not uncommon.

Likewise, accurately managing water heating in line with demand can produce as much as a 30% saving in energy use and significant reduction in water consumption. The associated costs of repair and insurance premiums can also be reduced with the integration of leak detection, to mitigate the effects of escape of water, and installation of hob auto-shut-off devices to reduce the risk of cooking fires.

UTILITIES VS STAFFING COSTS

Energy efficiency is a critical priority in PBSA operations. Utilities often represent the highest single operational expenditure and are comparable with

staffing costs. The amount spent on utilities is more volatile, prices fluctuate, they are affected by weather, occupant behaviour, and macro-economic factors. These present difficulties in forecasting. Conversely staff costs are more stable and predictable particularly when scaling up operations. They are generally fixed costs. Rises can be anticipated with careful management of wage inflation and recruitment.

The use of systems such as Irus make utility use, and therefore costs, more visible and easier to control. Automated functionality delivers efficiencies and far greater savings potential in terms of both utility cost and staff engagement.

SUSTAINABILITY IS BUILT IN

With ESG goals, net-zero targets, and growing demand from students for environmentally responsible accommodation, Irus helps PBSA operators demonstrate measurable carbon reductions. Detailed energy usage reports support compliance and accreditation, making it easier to meet regulatory demands while strengthening their brand’s sustainability credentials.

OPERATIONAL EFFICIENCY ALSO GETS A MAJOR BOOST

It’s not just control heating; Irus actively supports maintenance

teams. Real-time fault alerts allow for preventative maintenance, reducing downtime and minimising reactive repair costs. Management teams can diagnose and address issues remotely before they escalate, improving service levels and reducing student complaints.

AND MOST IMPORTANTLY: STUDENTS ARE HAPPY

Irus strikes the perfect balance between comfort and efficiency. Students get an easy-to-use interface to control their room temperature, while operators maintain overall control to prevent energy waste. The result is greater student satisfaction, fewer temperaturerelated service calls, and an enhanced reputation for the accommodation site. Providers need more than just heating controls, they need a smart, scalable, and future-proof solution, intelligent room-level control, occupancy detection, and adaptive heating schedules that reduce unnecessary heating. Irus delivers exactly that, making it the go-to choice for multi-site PBSA operators who want to protect their margins, reduce energy consumption, and offer an outstanding student experience across their portfolios, nationwide. Irus – Control. Visibility. Intelligence. https://prefectcontrols.com/

Power smarter with seamless gas connections – built for CHP success

Looking to optimise your Combined Heat and Power (CHP) site or deliver greater energy e ciency across your estate?

Our expert team provides end-to-end gas connections, fully project-managed from initial design through to nal commissioning. Whether you’re upgrading an existing CHP system or planning a new energy centre, we deliver the right pressure, capacity and compliance with ultimate con dence.

Why choose us?

Tailored gas solutions for complex CHP and industrial sites

Fast-track connections with a single point of contact

Full compliance with all regulations and safety standards Proven track record

CHAUVIN ARNOUX LAUNCHES NEW L400 DATA LOGGER SERIES IN THE UK

Chauvin Arnoux, a global leader in electrical measurement solutions is proud to announce the launch of its L400 Data Logger Series across the UK, Wales, Scotland and Northern Ireland.

Comprising the L411, L412, and L461 models, this new range of easy-to-use loggers provide electrical professionals and facility managers with a reliable and connected solution for longterm monitoring of voltage and current.

The L400 Series supports predictive maintenance and energy efficiency

The L400 series offers effective diagnostics, predictive maintenance, and energy consumption management. By recording electrical data over extended periods, the instruments help users detect issues such as overheating, overloading, or power variations before they become critical. They also support energy optimisation by enabling detailed load studies and tracking consumption trends across equipment and installations.

The L411, L412 and L461 have advanced functions for seamless data monitoring

With their USB and Wi-Fi connectivity, the L400 series can be used as remote sensors and integrated into IT systems for seamless data transfer and analysis. Each model features a backlit LCD display, extended memory with SD card storage, and compatibility with Data Logger Transfer software – allowing users to configure, download, and analyse data with ease. The web server ensures real-time display and remote control via smartphone, tablet, or PC on any android/windows application. They are practical, reliable and built for demanding environments

Designed for everyday use, the L400 Series has wide measurement capabilities, from 0.08 to 3000 A AC and up to 1500 VDC for applications such as photovoltaic systems. Housed in a

compact, rugged IP54-rated casing, the loggers are built to withstand tough site conditions and extreme temperatures ranging from -20°C to -50°C.

With flexible current sensors for quick installation, battery and USB power options – the L400 range meets all compliance standards.

“The L400 Series are intuitive data loggers built to enhance efficiency, safety, and reliability. With advanced predictive maintenance, energy optimisation capabilities, and flexible connectivity options, they provide facility managers and electrical professionals with a smarter, more reliable way to manage modern infrastructures” said Elliot Ajose, Regional Sales and Technical Manager, Chauvin Arnoux UK.

The L400 Logger Series are available now in the UK, Wales, Scotland and Northern Ireland through Chauvin Arnoux’s network of authorised distributors and partners. For further information, visit their website: http://bit.ly/46LcoLN

L400 SERIES

BUILT FOR INDUSTRIAL MAINTENANCE

Set up quickly with compact data loggers.

Keep client data organised with large measurement capacity.

Monitor remotely with current and voltage sensors.

Analyse easily with clear breakdowns of recorded events.

Datalogger Transfer

Cost-e ective current recorder with integral MiniFlex

Versatile current recorder with 2 measurement channels

Dedicated Single-Channel AC/DC Voltage Logger – up to 1500 Vdc

L411

IS THE TIME UP FOR MHHS?

2025 has seen a real ramp up in efforts by the energy industry to ensure both pricing and settlements become better aligned through a move towards Market-wide Half Hourly Settlement (MHHS). The migration ordered by Ofgem is more than simply a technology upgrade. Rather, it signifies a move towards a more adaptable, responsive, and sustainable energy framework that should benefit the entire public sector.

METERS NEED TO SMARTEN UP

MHHS sets the stage for a future where achieving net zero becomes much easier for the public sector. However, the transition has thus far proved far from easy. Much of this has been down to the sheer variety of meters being used up and down the land.

As we know, despite their wellpublicised advantages, many have been reticent to transition to smart meters. In

WHAT IS MHHS?

Market-wide Half Hourly Settlement (MHHS) is the new electricity market arrangements that will enable the flexibility to support transition to Net Zero. A shorter and more accurate Settlement timetable using Half Hourly meter readings for settled energy will support a cost-effective electricity system, encourage flexible use of energy, and help lower bills. The MHHS Programme is an industry-led programme established to deliver the Target Operating Model and aims of the Electricity Settlement Reform Significant Code Review (SCR). This will see meters migrate to a new topline to comply with the changes. MPANs will migrate in phases by supplier. The suppliers are going through a qualification process, and this will determine when the MPAN is migrated.

David Sheldrake, Global SVP, POWWR

fact, according to the most recent data, 42% of meters in the UK are still not smart. Meaning several million meters need to be ripped and replaced before MHHS can be activated on them.

TIME HAS RUN OUT

The fact that the physical meter transition is far from complete is making the back-end transition of the Top Line Supply Numbers problematic. There are certain older pre-smart meters that simply cannot be transitioned correctly. Yet, time has run out. September 2025 was the date that Ofgem has ordered the industry to be ready to change the Top Line Supply Numbers and migrate meters to be half hourly.

The migration programme has meant to have begun. With those suppliers within the first phase needing to migrate their meters to MHHS half hourly billing. It is thought that two of the big six are included in this first phase.

EASIER SAID THAN DONE

The fact that there are four distinct phases of transition staggered over a one-year period is putting pressure on all within the downstream supply chain. This is because the meters associated with those energy suppliers participating in the first phase are needing to be listed differently and have a markedly different Top Line Supply Number. The Meter Time Switch Code (MTC) is removed and replaced with a Settlement Configuration (SSC) Id, and the Current Line Loss Factor (LLF) is split into a DUoS Tariff Id and a new LLF.

It may seem like a minor change, but changing the Top Line Supply Number impacts every system, process or document which holds these numbers, whether that be customer bills or marketwide databases. Because of the phased approach, all databases will need to be able to process both the old, and new

Top Line Supply Numbers. This is far easier said than done.

COMPARING APPLES TO ORANGES

Each supplier has needed to interpret how to get the Ofgem mandates to work for them. The reality is that each supplier has different technical expertise. The energy industry is one that is in some ways shackled by the past and has remained resistant to digital transformation. Because of this, each supplier has very different technology stacks and markedly different billing platforms. Now, they are being asked to use different field lengths within the databases to be able to process both the old and new top lines during the transition. This is tantamount to comparing apples to oranges.

This is unfairly hampering the less technologically adept suppliers. Because they cannot input the new Top Line Supply Numbers, it is impossible for them to take on that meter. This is leading to an unfair playing field.

TIME TO PUSH BACK

The whole point of the move towards MHHS was for consumers to get the best and most appropriate rates. It was feted as something that would boost accuracy and stability for the public sector. Yet, the industry is clearly unprepared. The transition is placing multiple hurdles in front of those within the downstream supply chain. Until the migration of all the suppliers happens in 2027, those in both the public and private sector will simply not be getting the best deals.

The move to MHHS was always going to include teething period. Yet, with the earliest that time of use tariffs will come in being another two years, maybe it is time to push back. www.powwr.com

WE’RE THRILLED TO ANNOUNCE THE EMEX 2025 AGENDA IS LIVE!

Renowned for the outstanding learning opportunities on offer, you can once again expect plenty of first-class, free-toattend sessions across our four themed theatres at emex, meaning there really is a session for everyone. And, don't forget that all of these sessions will be delivered by industry experts from across the net zero spectrum, all excited to help you with your sustainability journey.

WHAT’S ON THE AGENDA SO FAR?

After the welcoming address, by Lord Rupert Redesdale, Conference Chair the Energy & Carbon Management Strategy Theatre opens with Kate Mulvany, Cornwall Insight, forecasting energy costs, regulation and market changes. As the energy landscape undergoes rapid transformation, the role of the energy manager is evolving. Dan Smith, Director of Energy Services, ClearVue Business, gives perspective for those ready to shape the next chapter of energy management.

As “greenhushing” emerges as word of the hour, we must reframe the net zero narrative. From pitching to your CFO from the perspectives of sustainability directors, to preparing for future reporting requirements, Sarune Ringelyte, Director, Sustainability, Savills in the Sustainability & Net Zero

Theatre, will discuss what the true ROI of energy efficiency and emissions reduction is and Alice Andreasen, Chief Corporate Affairs Officer, Newcastle International Airport, tells all about the business case for net zero.

With rising energy costs, tighter regulations, and increasing financial premiums for inefficiency, leaders are caught in a perceived conflict between building sustainability and business sustainability. This narrative will be challenged through practical insights into making commercially sound sustainability decisions in the built environment by Anna Maclean, Co-Founder & CEO SRE, Jill Fowler, Transformation and Sustainability Director, JLL, and Kam Singh, Executive Director – ESG, EMCOR UK in the Smart Buildings & Built Environment Theatre

Responsible and efficient energy consumption remains a priority for organisations. According to Cornwall Insight, as of April 2025, the average small business energy bill is approximately 70% higher than it was in ‘21–22. emex explores why ‘when’ you use energy is now more important than ‘how much’ you use.

The sustainability narrative shifts toward future-thinking business models, we must prepare to adapt to a changing world. Climate resilience is a key factor in long-term planning. Is your organisation ready?

The future? Driven by the promise of AI and smart technology, it looks smart. Mike Pitts, Deputy Director, Innovate UK informs us that buildings will tell us how to build better. emex looks at opportunities presented by these technologies in predictive maintenance, energy modelling, and data processing from AI, IOT and digital twins whilst addressing the practical realities of integrating these technologies successfully.

Our Energy Future & Flexible Networks Theatre addresses flexibility markets and will host sessions featuring Vanessa Jones, Power Responsive Officer, NESO and Rebecca Beresford, Director of Markets, NESO.

WHAT ELSE DO WE HAVE IN STORE FOR EMEX THIS YEAR?

There’s plenty of other learning opportunities to get involved with including free-to-attend workshops from BSI Training Academy and Cornwall Insight, plus mentoring sessions hosted by the Institute of Sustainability and Environment professionals [ISEP] and Young Energy Professionals [YEP]. (Places are limited across all of these features so please register early to take part).

Closing the show, we welcome a new pitch competition with five innovative startups battling it out for a prize in front of a panel of judges from Finance, Retail, Telco, Logistics and Airports sectors.

No matter where you are in your decarbonisation journey, your budget, or your career stage, from workshops to informative presentations, there is a session made for you.

WATCH THIS SPACE…

Keep an eye on the website and speaker pages with more fresh updates. Visit the emexlondon.com website to see the full preliminary 2025 agenda. Registration is completely FREE. Secure your spot now: https:// forms.reg.buzz/emex-2025/regeditorial-enerygy-manager-mag

This is just the beginning... there's more to come for the show!

More workshops, more networking opportunities and more informative sessions to be announced soon.

RINNAI R290 HEAT PUMP & CYLINDER SYSTEM POWERS

MAJOR NAME HOTEL IN BIRMINGHAM

Leading Northwest contractors, Winrow Building Services, has recently completed an installation of a new high-performance system for heating and hot water production at a 100-plus bedroom Birmingham City Centre hotel.

The hotel is part of one of the biggest hotel chains in the world and the system has been augmented with SPF calculations and complete system integration for maximum operational efficiencies.

The new system consists of 2 x 27kW R290 heat pumps optimised with a bespoke 800 L prefeed vessel and 2 x 500L electric cylinders with 48kW of immersions. The new system replaces an old electric cylinder system of a 1500L storage and 36kW of immersions.

Sited in the heart of England, this Birmingham hotel is ideally located to explore the attractions of the city and the West Midlands. The bespoke Rinnai R290 system upgrade ensures reliable hot water delivery across the hotel’s 111 bedrooms, restaurant and bar area, along with its five conference rooms that can support up to 200 guests.

“This project was all about delivering energy efficiency and long-term reliability,” says Ben Winrow, Project Manager at Winrow Building Services.

“The Rinnai system was straightforward to install, and the bespoke design made integration seamless. The client now benefits from lower running costs, reduced carbon footprint, and a future-proofed system.”

Winrow Building Ltd is a familyowned and run business of over 30 years’ experience in designing, supplying and installing heating and hot water systems and solutions.

Adds Dave Winrow “Our goal with each and every job is to offer the utmost value to clients by prioritising energy and environmental savings without compromising efficiency and performance. Rinnai support us in achieving this with full system integration,

For a FREE consultation on any forthcoming heating and DHW projects simply visit https://www.rinnai-uk.co.uk/ contact-us/help-me-choose-product

SPF calculations and expert support”

Rinnai has R290 heat pumps as part of its array of an extensive list of decarbonising appliances. R290 is a LOW scoring GWP (Global Warming Potential) refrigerant and allows for several operational benefits:

• Energy efficiency is improved by 10%, thus enabling water temperature of up to 75 degrees Celsius.

• R290 usage provides compliance alongside the European F-Gas Regulation which focuses on phasing down refrigerant environmental impact.

• Rinnai’s R290 air source heat pump range is available in 11 different sizes, from 6 kW up to 50 kW. All units arrive with control systems that allow time sensitive programming and customization enabling specific customer requirements to be met. Rinnai’s has a wide and comprehensive selection of unvented water heaters to add to and complement the existing range of cylinders solutions.

Key features of the Rinnai unvented water heaters are:

• Venturi Technology: The units use patented Venturi technology to minimise expansion, ensuring minimal ongoing maintenance and optimal performance.

• High Efficiency: Engineered to give maximum energy efficiency.

• Durability: Built with highquality Duplex stainless steel, the cylinders are designed to last, giving long-term reliability.

• Ease of Installation: With a userfriendly design, the installation process is straightforward, saving time and effort.

• Safety First: Equipped with advanced safety features, including a factory-fitted 7bar/90ºC pressure and temperature relief valve.

• Eco-Friendly: Featuring CFC/ HCFC-free thermal insulation, the cylinders are designed with sustainability in mind.

RINNAI OFFERS

CLEAR PATHWAYS TO LOWER CARBON AND DECARBONISATION PLUS CUSTOMER COST REDUCTIONS FOR COMMERCIAL, DOMESTIC AND OFF-GRID HEATING & HOT WATER DELIVERY

https://www.rinnai-uk.co.uk/ about-us/h3-heat-pumps

Rinnai’s range of decarbonising products – H1/H2/H3 – consists of hot water heating units in gas/BioLPG/

DME, hydrogen ready units, electric instantaneous hot water heaters, electric storage cylinders and buffer vessels, a comprehensive range of heat pumps, solar, hydrogen-ready or natural gas in any configuration of hybrid formats for either residential or commercial applications. Rinnai’s H1/2/3 range of products and systems offer contractors, consultants and end users a range of efficient, robust and affordable low carbon/decarbonising appliances which create practical, economic and technically feasible solutions.

Rinnai is a world leading manufacturer of hot water heaters and produces over two million units a year, operating on each of the five continents. The brand has gained an established reputation for producing products that offer high performance, cost efficiency and extended working lives.

Rinnai products are UKCA certified, A-rated water efficiency, accessed through multiple fuel options and are available for purchase 24/7, 365 days a year. Any unit can be delivered to any UK site within 24 hours.

Rinnai offer carbon and cost comparison services that will calculate financial and carbon savings made when investing in a Rinnai system. Rinnai also provide a system design service that will suggest an appropriate system for the property in question.

Rinnai offer comprehensive

training courses and technical support in all aspects of the water heating industry including detailed CPD’s.

The Rinnai range covers all forms of fuels and appliances currently available – electric, gas, hydrogen, BioLPG, DME solar thermal, low GWP heat pumps and electric water heaters More information can be found on Rinnai’s website and its “Help Me Choose” webpage.

RINNAI FULL PRODUCT AVAILABILITY 24/7 FOR NEXT DAY DELIVERY OF ALL HOT WATER HEATING UNIT MODELS INCLUDING 48-58KW UNITS

SAVINGS OF

• 20% REDUCTION of opex cost,

• 30% REDUCTION of initial cost

• 15% REDUCTION in carbon

• 75% REDUCTION of space

Visit www.rinnai-uk.co.uk

Or email engineer@rinaiuk.com

For more information on the RINNAI product range visit www.rinnaiuk.com

CAN HEAT PUMPS IGNITE CHANGE WITHIN OUR DOMESTIC HEATING SYSTEM?

Rachel Freeman, Senior Consultant at DNV Energy Systems

Most consumers care most about two things: affordability and reliability. This balance is unlikely to change as the UK navigates its path towards net zero.

While the environmental benefits of the energy transition are widely acknowledged, what is less often discussed is the impact it will have on our finances.

Modelling from DNV on the UK market suggests that the transition to a low-carbon energy system will eventually deliver a clear prize for the everyday consumer, in the form of tangible cost savings.

As highlighted in our third UK Energy Transition Outlook (ETO) report – a comprehensive study on the likely trajectory for the UK energy system –the energy transition is affordable and could reduce average household energy expenditure by nearly 40% by midcentury, compared to 2021 levels.

Improvements in affordability are primarily driven by more efficient, electrified technologies, particularly heat pumps for homes and electric vehicles for transport.

Our forecasts indicate that by 2035 the UK’s electricity system will be completely decarbonised and electricity will provide as much as half of the UK’s final energy demand by 2050. However, the building sector will only see a 12% drop in emissions.

Removing emissions from buildings is a stubborn challenge. Over 23 million homes, almost 80% of the UK housing stock, are currently heated by natural gas boilers – accounting for 13% of UK CO2 emissions. Heat pumps are a prime option to decarbonise home heating, being up to three times more energy-efficient than gas boilers. They can produce 2-3 kW of heat from each 1 kW of electricity consumed.

For consumers, however, it is not always clear that heat pumps are a good choice. Heat pump adoption is hampered by high installation costs, the disruption caused by installation especially in older buildings, and uncertainty about whether the savings in running costs will pay for installation costs.

Electricity prices are still roughly four times higher than gas on a per-kWh basis.

A rule of thumb is that heat pumps will only be economic if the electricity price is no more than double that of gas. This is even when counting in the UK’s generous subsidies for heat pumps. The levelised cost of home heating with heat pumps will remain higher than for gas boilers for up to another ten years. Not all homes are suitable for heat pumps. Based on EPC ratings data, only about half of the UK housing stock is suitable for heat pumps without significant building improvements.

The UK target of 600,000 heat pump installations by 2028 is highly unlikely to be met. In fact, the government has recently reversed an earlier decision to ban the sale of new gas boilers by 2035, as practical difficulties become apparent.

Over the medium to long term, DNV’s data shows that there will be a strongly growing trend toward the electrification of heating in domestic buildings, as heat pump technology improves and the electricity to gas price ratio gradually decreases. By 2040, heat pumps could be heating 20% of UK homes, rising to almost 40% by 2050.

Regarding policy, it is clear that despite their high efficiency and environmental benefits, heat pumps will not scale on ambition alone. There needs to be more government intervention to promote the

use of heat pumps, develop significant improvements in their attractiveness to customers through technological innovation, and invest in improving engineering practices in the heating supply chain.

More work is needed to ensure heat pumps can be rolled out without placing any further financial strain on households that are already facing energy and cost-of-living pressures. Industry investment is needed to ensure the affordability of heat pumps for households is improved through: (i) reducing upfront installation costs, (ii) reducing running costs that are dictated by the price of electricity, (iii) finding better ways to make older buildings heat pump ready, and (iv) improving the real-world operating efficiency of heat pump equipment and homes. If done right – including rebalancing energy prices to be fairer for electrification over the use of gas – heat pumps, especially when paired with improvements to building energy efficiency, will eventually lead to leaner energy bills for consumers across the country and support our net zero target. This would provide positive effects for millions of households, particularly at a time when fuel poverty and energy affordability are at the forefront of the public consciousness. www.dnv.com

BEYOND COMPLIANCE: HOW FLEXIBILITY FUTUREPROOFS STUDENT LIVING

Student accommodation providers face a triple challenge. They need to deliver comfortable, modern living environments, stay ahead of tightening regulatory requirements, and cut costs in the face of rising energy bills. At the same time, they are under growing pressure to support universities’ ambitious net zero strategies.

Many operators are already investing in retrofits, electrification, and smarter building management. But compliance deadlines and budget constraints mean not every solution is realistic to implement at speed. What if there were a way to reduce emissions and costs immediately, without new capital expenditure, and while futureproofing estates for the long term?

That’s where Voltalis comes in.

FLEXIBILITY THAT GOES FURTHER THAN COMPLIANCE

Voltalis provides intelligent demandside flexibility. In practice, this means helping buildings use less electricity during peak times, when power is most expensive and carbon-intensive, without affecting comfort or student experience. By installing smart control modules at no upfront cost, Voltalis enables short, automatic adjustments to heating, cooling and hot water systems. These adjustments are invisible to occupants but deliver up to 15% reductions in electricity use, verified carbon savings, and compliance with grid-balancing and decarbonisation requirements.

For estate managers, that means:

• Immediate financial returns:

Average 15% reduction in electric heating and cooling costs with no capital investment

• Verified Scope 2 emission reductions that contribute directly to net zero reporting

• Zero operational disruption to student comfort or accommodation management

Automatic compliance with gridbalancing requirements and future regulatory frameworks

Revenue opportunities through participation in grid flexibility markets

REAL RESULTS: UNIVERSITY OF WALES TRINITY SAINT DAVID

In autumn 2024, Voltalis partnered with the University of Wales Trinity Saint David to install its technology across over 100 student accommodation rooms. The 15-minute installations required no rewiring or building modifications, making them ideal for heritage properties. Within six months, the results exceeded expectations:

• 13% reduction in electricity consumption across two accommodation blocks

• Over 5,000 grid support events delivered automatically

• Significant Scope 2 emission reductions contributing to decarbonisation targets

• Zero student complaints despite consistent system operation Seamless integration even in buildings dating back over 200 years

As Daniel Priddy, Head of Sustainability, explains: “Since installing the Voltalis solution, we’ve achieved a 13% reduction in electricity use across our student accommodation – all without any changes in comfort or behaviour. That’s rare, especially in a heritage university with complex infrastructure. What’s even more impressive is that despite the system running consistently, there were no complaints from users.”

THE STRATEGIC ADVANTAGE: FROM COST CENTRE TO GRID ASSET

Traditional energy management treats buildings as consumers. Voltalis transforms them into active grid participants, creating value from flexibility while reducing costs.

As the UK grid becomes increasingly renewable-dependent, the ability to shift demand intelligently becomes a strategic asset. Student accommodation, with its predictable usage patterns and distributed footprint, is perfectly positioned to capitalise on this transition.

For PBSA providers managing multiple sites, this represents a

step-change in how accommodation can contribute to both institutional sustainability goals and operational efficiency. It’s not just about using less energy, it’s about using energy smarter.

BEYOND COMPLIANCE, TOWARDS RESILIENCE

The role of student housing in the energy transition is often overlooked. Yet PBSA buildings are both highconsumption and highly replicable across the UK estate. With solutions like Voltalis, operators can move beyond box-ticking compliance to become active contributors to grid stability, carbon reduction, and cost resilience. Flexibility is not just about balancing the grid. It’s about future proofing your estate against rising costs, regulatory scrutiny, and the volatility of a changing energy system. Early adopters don’t just achieve compliance, they position themselves as leaders in the sector’s transition to smarter, more sustainable operations.

SCALING SUCCESS ACROSS THE SECTOR

With over 1.5 million devices already managing flexibility across Europe and UK, Voltalis is expanding its university partnerships following the UWTSD success. Similar deployments are underway with other institutions, demonstrating the scalability and replicability of demand-side flexibility in student accommodation.

JOIN THE CONVERSATION

Our Managing Director, Dr. Randall Bowen, will be speaking at the UK Living Series: Student Accommodation Summit on 9th October in London, where he’ll share insights on how demand-side flexibility can deliver cost savings, compliance, and climate action for PBSA providers. Because when buildings flex, universities don’t just meet compliance - they unlock smarter, cleaner, and more resilient ways to live and learn. All together better. Learn more at voltalis.co.uk

HARNESSING RENEWABLES FOR STEAM SYSTEMS

An introduction by Spirax Sarco UK & Ireland

As the global energy landscape shifts, industries are under more pressure than ever to decarbonise — but without compromising performance, uptime, or reliability.

For organisations that rely on steam, this presents a specific challenge: how do you reduce carbon emissions from a system that has, for good reason, stood the test of time?

At Spirax Sarco, we believe the answer lies not in discarding steam, but in improving how it’s generated, managed, and integrated with cleaner energy sources. By combining steam with renewable technologies, and embracing hybrid solutions, businesses can unlock meaningful sustainability gains — without starting from scratch.

This article explores how steam systems

can work together with renewables to support a net-zero future.

1. WHY STEAM STILL MATTERS IN A LOW-CARBON FUTURE

Steam remains one of the most effective ways to deliver heat. It’s consistent, controllable, and able to serve multiple loads across a plant. It’s also inherently efficient — particularly when it’s well-managed.

The idea that all steam must be phased out to hit carbon targets is not only unrealistic — it’s also unnecessary. Steam systems can be part of the solution, not the problem.

The key lies in how we generate the steam and how that energy fits into a broader, cleaner strategy.

2. THE ROLE OF RENEWABLES IN MODERN STEAM GENERATION

There are several viable routes

to integrating renewables into your steam system, and many sites are already further along than they think. Here are the most common:

a) Electrification with Renewable

Power

Switching to electrically powered boilers — particularly when paired with on-site or purchased renewable electricity — is a straightforward way to cut Scope 1 emissions dramatically.

Electric steam boilers:

ƒ Require no combustion

ƒ Offer fast response times

ƒ Are ideal for smaller or decentralised loads

ƒ Have lower maintenance needs compared to traditional gas-fired boilers

When powered by renewables (e.g., solar PV or green grid electricity), they provide a genuinely low-carbon route to steam.

Photo by Karsten Würth on Unsplash

b) Solar Thermal and Biomass Preheating

While full steam generation using solar or biomass is more complex, many sites are using these systems to preheat feedwater or reduce the load on existing boilers.

Solar thermal can provide warm water for condensate return systems or boiler makeup, reducing energy input. Biomass systems can be incorporated for baseload or supplementary heating.

3. EXPLORING HYBRID STEAM SOLUTIONS

For many organisations, a fully electric or renewable solution isn’t practical on day one — and that’s where hybrid systems offer real value. What is a hybrid steam system?

A hybrid system combines traditional boiler capacity (usually natural gas or LPG) with electric or renewable-powered alternatives. The system can switch between or balance sources based on:

ƒ Energy costs

ƒ Site demand

ƒ Carbon reduction goals

ƒ Available renewable supply Benefits include:

ƒ Flexibility to adapt to changing energy prices or carbon pricing

ƒ Lower capital costs compared to full system replacement

ƒ Resilience – keeping gasfired capacity as a backup

ƒ Measurable emissions reductions, especially during low-demand periods

Hybrid systems allow steam users to move forward in stages, rather than waiting for a wholesale infrastructure shift.

4. OVERCOMING PRACTICAL CHALLENGES

Renewable integration is achievable — but not without its hurdles. Common challenges include:

ƒ Space constraints for new equipment (e.g., electric boilers, solar arrays)

ƒ Grid capacity limits for allelectric conversions

ƒ CAPEX pressures during transition planning

ƒ Lack of clarity on payback periods and funding mechanisms

At Spirax Sarco, we work closely with customers to develop transition plans that suit real-world sites, budgets, and timescales. Whether it’s modular

installations, load sharing strategies or grant support, there’s often more room to manoeuvre than you might think.

5. REAL-WORLD OPPORTUNITIES

There’s no one-size-fits-all solution — but plenty of starting points.

Here are a few examples of where renewable or hybrid solutions have worked well:

Healthcare Sector

Switching sterilisation and heating loads to electric boilers during offpeak hours, powered by green grid electricity, while retaining gas-fired units for high-demand periods.

Food & Beverage Plants

Integrating electric steam boilers for CIP (clean-in-place) processes, reducing boiler cycling and energy waste.

Pharmaceutical Manufacturing

Using biomass to preheat water and reduce the primary steam load — a measurable reduction in fuel use with minimal process impact.

Universities and Research Facilities

Implementing small electric boilers alongside legacy systems to reduce emissions from campus heat networks.

6. WHERE TO START

Every site is different, but the first steps are often the same:

1. Audit Your Steam System. Understand your current usage,

STEAM SYSTEMS

emissions profile, and system layout.

2. Explore Load Matching. Identify smaller loads that could be electrified easily — e.g., washdown stations, autoclaves, lab equipment.

3. Consider Phased Upgrades. Begin with pilot areas and build out once performance and savings are proven.

4. Tap Into Expertise. Bring in a partner with both steam and sustainability knowledge — like Spirax Sarco.

5. Look for Funding and Policy Incentives. Grants and carbon schemes may support the case for hybrid or electric steam.

7. FINAL THOUGHTS

There’s no need to choose between steam and sustainability.

By integrating renewable technologies and adopting hybrid systems, businesses can reduce emissions, control energy costs and take meaningful steps towards net-zero — all while maintaining the performance and reliability that steam is known for.

At Spirax Sarco, we don’t believe in a one-track solution. We believe in practical, engineered answers to real operational challenges. And that’s what renewable steam integration is all about.

Want to know what a hybrid or renewable-ready steam system could look like for your site?

Let’s start the conversation. Our engineers are here to help you take the next step.

https://www.spiraxsarco.com/

PUBLIC SECTOR DECARBONISATION SCHEME: A £630M INVESTMENT IN HEAT PUMPS?

Earlier this year, the government confirmed a further £630 million investment for fourth and final phase of the UK’s Public Sector Decarbonisation Scheme (PSDS), but what form will this investment take? The aim is to encourage the ramping up of cleaner, more sustainable energy systems in our public buildings. The scale of investment clearly demonstrates that the incumbent administration is getting serious about hitting net-zero targets, and what’s more, it puts heat pumps right at the heart of the national decarbonisation effort. Adveco considers what this all means and how successful it has been at making public building decarbonisation with heat pumps a real priority for the UK.

THE PUBLIC SECTOR DECARBONISATION SCHEME: A REAL GAME CHANGER

The PSDS was created to support public sector organisations in cutting down on their carbon emissions and using less energy. To date, the sector has made more than 3,270 applications valued at more than £6.3 billion. Of these applications, 1221 have been granted with awards totalling £2.9 billion since Phase 1.

This latest £630 million is targeting a range of energy efficiency upgrades. From solar panels to better insulation, and, of course, a lot more heat pumps. The scheme is aimed at a wide range of public buildings – schools, hospitals, care homes, community centres, which combined together represent a not inconsiderable contributor to the nation’s carbon footprint.

This investment signals a continued drive to usher the public sector into a future based on low-carbon heating. It’s about moving away from those old fossil fuel systems. By offering financial inducement, the PSDS is trying to negate the initial, potentially high, cost barrier that often prevents public organisations, which constantly struggle with budget constraints adopting greener technology. It’s a proactive move, and important

for making sure that public building decarbonisation with heat pumps becomes the norm, not just something a few places are able to embrace.

HEAT PUMPS: TAKING CENTRE STAGE?

Heat pumps are a central pillar of communication for the PSDS. Correctly deployed, they can be an efficient means of cutting carbon emissions from building operations. Unlike traditional, and still very popular, gas boilers, which burn fossil fuel to generate heat, heat pumps can extract thermal energy from the environment (whether it’s the air, ground, or water) into a building. This process still requires an energy input, in this case electricity, so while not a true renewable, they do at least represent a low-carbon technology able to release as much as four times the thermal energy compared to that required to operate. That said, air source heat pumps (ASHP), which are by far the most popular options still only one of over 30 different technologies which have received PSDS funding so far, and many new technologies are in development. The PSDS is specifically pushing for replacing older gas boilers with heat pump technology, including air source, ground source, and even water source heat pumps. This direct swap is a key part of making public building decarbonisation with heat pumps happen quickly and effectively. Adoption has not been uniform but is now increasing following an initial high demand in Phase 1. Despite 848 projects incorporating ASHPs having been funded, PSDS-funded technology installations which incorporate ASHPs number just 345, and average just under £100,000 per project, so they account for a small part of the PSDS’ overall funding. For public buildings, which often need a lot of heating and hot water, installing these ASHPs will help address the environmental impact a building has. Operational costs will increase when compared to equivalent gas systems they replace, as electricity continues to be more expensive. But for new builds, which do not have the option of

new gas connections, the application of heat pumps will dramatically reduce direct-electric heating costs.

But this will have an impact, and many will not have considered or planned for subsequent, and not inconsiderable, increases in operational costs.

ADVECO’S PART IN HELPING PUBLIC SECTOR DECARBONISATION

As experts in commercial hot water and heating systems, we at Adveco are in a great position to help public sector organisations make the most of their funding, especially those seeking applications under the £1m mark. We offer a full range of heat pump products designed to be implemented to reduce emissions from energy-intensive water heating applications, which are often operationally critical. The ADV-W and ADVS-W air source heat pumps have been specifically developed for commercial applications. These systems can be put into brand new buildings or fitted into existing ones, giving you efficient and reliable hot water.

But it’s not just about the heat pump units themselves. Adveco also brings expertise in designing and putting together entire low-carbon hot water systems. This includes integrating thermal storage, which helps heat pumps work better by letting them run more consistently and store hot water for when it’s most needed. Focusing on the whole system design like this makes sure that the investment in public building decarbonisation with heat pumps really pays off in terms of efficiency and long-term sustainability.

THE WIDER IMPACT OF THE PUBLIC SECTOR DECARBONISATION SCHEME

As well as being good for public sector buildings getting the upgrades, this investment is intended to send a really strong message to the whole market. By showing clear, continued government backing for heat pumps and other low-carbon technologies, the

expectation is for the PSDS to encourage further innovation and growth in the lowcarbon heating sector. This ‘upstream’ effect could lead to better heat pump technology, increased manufacturing here in the UK, and a more skilled workforce. All of which ultimately makes the technology more accessible. It must be said, however, that many in the industry question the government’s belief that this will also lead to notable decreases in unit costs, making heat pumps affordable. The technology used in heat pumps is not new; it uses the same production lines as the refrigerant industry, the global output of which dwarfs heat pump production. As such, the unit price point of components is unlikely to reduce; therefore, without considerable government subsidies, heat pump prices are unlikely to fall in line with the price of current gas water heaters. This is a real potential stumbling block for the PSDS later in this decade if prices do not fall as has been suggested. As a route to decarbonisation, the capability of heat pumps to cut emissions is inarguable, and success

stories that come out of these PSDS projects will hopefully inspire private sector organisations to jump on board too. As more public buildings show just how good decarbonisation with heat pumps can be, the hope is that it will be able to build necessary confidence and speed up the adoption of these technologies across the whole of the UK.

There are wrinkles in this vision, and the private sector will, for the most part, have its eye firmly on the bottom line. It will always react more favourably to the carrot rather than the stick. The PSDS investment shows the government can support this space, but the private sector continues to wait for similar levels of support. For many smaller businesses, the capital investment and operational costs just do not stack up, and that is a problem, as the ripple effect the PSDS aims to create is absolutely vital for the UK to hit its national net zero goals.

In the wider scheme of things, a £630 million investment is nothing compared to the billions needed to update and upgrade national energy infrastructure or replace aging systems across the

commercial built estate. It’s a first volley in a complex and potentially protracted battle to win hearts and minds that is necessary to see the country embrace and achieve net zero by 2050. The government isn’t just changing public buildings; it’s attempting to kick-start a much bigger shift in how we think about energy. At Adveco, we can help that conversation at the board level; we can help organisations understand how they can best apply government funding or their own investments into their buildings to secure real carbon savings today. Critically, this can be achieved without the punishing capital investment which so often comes with it, and which can so often derail sustainability strategies before they have a chance of implementation. Whether planning to transition from gas to electric, or trying to achieve the best value from new build specification, talk to the experts first who can walk you through lowercarbon and renewable alternatives – from heat pumps to solar, electric and beyond… https://adveco.co/sectors/ public-sector/

POWERING THE FUTURE

DECARBONISATION THROUGH PUBLIC SECTOR ELECTRICITY GENERATION

As the UK accelerates its journey toward net zero by 2050, decarbonisation of the public sector has emerged as a critical frontier.

Central to this transformation is the generation of clean electricity within public buildings. This offers an approach that not only reduces carbon emissions but also enhances energy resilience and financial sustainability for decarbonisation solutions applied in public buildings which require substantial power usage to operate.

Electricity generation is a foundation of decarbonisation. By shifting away from fossil fuels and embracing renewable technologies, public sector organisations can significantly reduce their carbon footprint.

Solar photovoltaic (PV) systems offer a proven and scalable solution. In short, these systems connect the sun’s energy to produce electricity, eliminating greenhouse gas emissions and reducing reliance on the grid.

Public buildings, such as schools, hospitals, libraries, and council office, are uniquely positioned to lead this transition. With large roof spaces and consistent energy demand, they are ideal candidates for solar PV installations.

The benefits can be many sided: reduced energy bills, improved energy security, and enhanced environmental credentials. Moreover, these installations often serve as visible best practice and examples of sustainability, inspiring communities and stakeholders alike.

Through my work at Salix, I see first hand how the benefits of clean energy are impacting communities.

However, the journey is not without risks. Fluctuating energy prices, evolving policy frameworks, and technical challenges can complicate implementation. Additionally, without robust energy management systems, the full potential of on-site generation may not be realised.

Davide Natuzzi, assistant director, energy, carbon and technical, Salix

Effective design, project verification, measurement and verification strategies, monitoring, control, and optimisation are essential to ensure that systems operate efficiently and deliver expected savings.

Recognising these challenges, Salix has played a pivotal role in supporting public sector organisations.

Through the Public Sector Decarbonisation Scheme (PSDS), we have enabled hundreds of projects across England to install solar PV systems. Since the scheme’s launch in 2020, more than £277 million has been invested in 562 solar PV projects, resulting in 188,681,638 kWh of annual energy savings and £30 million in financial savings. www.salixfinance. co.uk/news/big-boost-solar-pvwere-making-more-energy-sun

One standout example is Oxford City Council, which used Public Sector Decarbonisation Scheme funding to invest in a not-for-profit solar farm connected to the grid. This initiative not only powers council buildings but also delivers long-term community benefits.

Similarly, Cambridgeshire County Council installed solar PV across six schools with funding totalling £186,655, demonstrating how local authorities can lead by example.

We’re proud to support these projects, the organisations and the inspirational people behind them throughout the net zero journey.

Beyond solar PV, several other carbon-saving technologies are being deployed in public buildings to generate clean power:

• Geothermal energy systems, which use underground heat for electricity and heating.

• Wind turbines, particularly in rural or coastal public sites.

• Biomass boilers, converting organic waste into usable energy.

• Building-integrated photovoltaics (BIPV), where solar panels are embedded into the building’s structure.

• Hydrogen fuel cells, offering zeroemission power for larger facilities. Smart energy storage systems, which store excess renewable energy for later use.

Examples of these technologies in development are at the University of York where a major geothermal solution is being developed with the Public Sector Decarbonisation Scheme funding and the hydrogen application which is being studied at the Greater Manchester Combined Authority.

To maximise the impact of these investments, energy generation must be integrated with intelligent energy management systems. These systems enable real-time monitoring, predictive maintenance, and datadriven decision-making. Without them, organisations risk underperformance and missed savings opportunities.

Looking ahead, the need for strategic, well-managed power generation in public buildings is more urgent than ever. At Salix, we remain committed to supporting this transition, working closely with public sector teams and housing to identify opportunities, assess feasibility, and deliver impactful projects.

In conclusion, power generation in public buildings is not just a technical upgrade but it’s a strategic imperative. With the right funding, technology, and management, the public sector can lead the UK’s decarbonisation journey, one rooftop at a time. www.salixfinance.co.uk

GAME-CHANGING HOT WATER – HOW RINNAI TRANSFORMED MILLOM RUFC’S OFF-GRID SYSTEM

Millom Rugby Union Football Club situated in the scenic Cumbrian countryside, is a multi-use facility that includes rugby pitches and a popular caravan and camping ground. The club required a reliable, energy-efficient hot water solution to replace its traditional stored hot water supply.

The system was required to meet a high and variable demand from matchday players, onsite staff, and campsite visitors who demand comfort and safety. The variable nature of demand created multiple peaks in supply throughout the day.

The site is off-grid and reliant on LPG, and initial plans to connect to mains gas were abandoned due to the prohibitive cost and limitations of the existing infrastructure – therefore Rinnai LPG to BioLPG hot water system were seen as both an economically and ecological route to lower costs and carbon.

After consultation with Rinnai engineering experts the Club installed four N Series 1600 continuous flow water heaters all supplying instant temperature accurate hot water on demand for all players and caravan site visitors.

Originally a stored water system was proposed but Rinnai’s engineering team provided a full CAPEX, OPEX, and lifecycle cost analysis as standard. This demonstrated that an LPG and BIOLPG ready continuous flow system would

outperform a traditional stored hot water system in terms of:

• Energy efficiency

• Operational cost savings

• Carbon footprint reduction

• System longevity and reliability (up to 12 years warranty)

Contact Rinnai engineers today for a free site consultation on your next water heating project https:// www.rinnai-uk.co.uk/contactus/help-me-choose-product

All Rinnai appliances are manufactured under strict guidelines of ISO 9001 quality management and ISO 14001 environmental management. The commercial continuous flow water heaters are designed to provide almost limitless volumes of cost-effective and temperature controlled hot water.

Each Rinnai N Series gas fired water heater offers a more compact and enhanced combustion design that allows for convenient installation, superior operational performance, and easy accessibility when servicing is required. All additional components are designed and manufactured by Rinnai ensuring proven quality and reliability.

The Rinnai N Series is the first ever continuous flow water heater manufactured with stainless steel heat exchangers to be available in the UK – this provides an extended working life at optimum performance to each of the four models in the range.

Features include:

Flue up to 48+ metres for concentric for flexible mounting

Turbo Fan and longevity

Built-in controller as standard on both internal and external models for easy set up

• Cascade Cable assembly allows up to twenty-four water heaters to be connected and function as one total and complete system. Any number of N-series Rinnai water heaters can be manifolded together enabling the largest capacities on the market.

Frost Protection – minus 15°C on the internal versions and minus 20°C on the external versions for flexible installation

Temperature setting up to 85 degrees for legionella protection or high temperature projects

• Maintenance Monitor for engineers for easy system updates, diagnostics or set up.

All Rinnai products in this range are low-NOx. The N Series uses Rinnai’s patented advanced burner technology with a 13-1 turn down ratio – the largest on the market meaning the water heater is optimising gas usage at all times which equates to energy and cost savings.

All Rinnai units are extremely quiet in operation. Integral controls on the units enable the water heater to achieve high efficiencies due to advanced burner control and high modulation ranges. And one small point for history buffs:- across town is the Millom Rugby LEAGUE Football Club – it is the oldest amateur rugby league club in the world, having been founded in 1873. www.rinnaiuk.com

THE EVOLUTION OF THE UK HOT WATER & HEATING MARKET

Rinnai’s Chris Goggin examines the current UK heating and hot water markets with a detailed statistical analysis of each notable sector to reveal the preferred methods of supplying both residential and commercial properties with warmth and DHW. This review will also look at the impact of legislation upon customer options. For free market and legislative updates join the Rinnai newsletter https://www.rinnai-uk.co.uk/contact-us/newsletter-sign

Technology used for heating and hot water options is both a major contributor and solution for lowering emissions.

Gas boilers have long been identified as a cause of rising global temperatures but still the gas boiler maintains a central position in heating and hot water options due to customer convenience, cost, current infrastructure and regulations allowing for their permissibility for the mid to long term.

In time, if hydrogen gas mixes are made available, UK emissions emanating from natural gas-powered systems can also be reduced. However, despite a large increase in the portfolio of available appliances that deliver domiciles and commercial properties with heating and hot water, there is still widespread UK customer reluctance to purchase alternative forms of technology, such as solar, heat pumps and hybrid DHW systems. If gas boilers and water heaters are readily available and there are plentiful reasons as to why this is the case, ranging from a distress sales situation to a lack of trained installers through to cost and perceived practicalities.

This is problematic towards the aim of decarbonising 28 million dwellings and a further 2 million commercial premises in the UK. By 2028 the UK is determined or at least has the ambition to install 600,000 heat pumps nationwide. In 2024 the total number of heat pumps that had been installed in households across the UK stands at around 320,000. More than 65,000 have been installed from

January 2024 to May 2025. UK heat pump installations throughout 2024 experienced a 40% increase – predominantly due to the government funding afforded to them.

Although, renewable energies and technologies are undoubtedly rising and have never been more attractive to UK customers, the problem is centred on more convenient, familiar and cost-effective energy – natural gas.

Gas boilers remain the dominant form of heating and hot water provision for domestic and commercial properties. Domestic gas boiler fittings are greater than heat pump connections by more than 15 to 1 in 2024. Despite national heat pump targets, only one in eight newly constructed homes were equipped with low carbon alternative technological options. Of the new build homes constructed in the UK throughout 2024 13% were finished with heat pumps as a primary source of heating and hot water. This is set to change with the Future homes standard and future building standard – however the replacement market remains a serious barrier for adoption.

A recent article published in the national UK media revealed that 1.5 million gas boilers were fitted across all sectors in the UK, most of which were replacements. Cost is an important factor once a UK household decides not to accept heat pumps over gas boilers. Costs relating to initial heat pump

purchase for domestic properties range in between £5,000 and £18,000 whilst initial purchase costs of gas boilers start at £1,600 and can be up to as much as £6,000 – the figure skyrockets with commercial systems yet the sizeable cost difference between gas fired systems and heat pumps remains. High income households and successful commercial enterprises are more likely to view heat pumps as a viable purchase option.

Domestic and commercial Heat pump utilisation is vital towards UK national decarbonising efforts. If NetZero targets are to be met 450,000 households will have to make the switch to heat pumps every year by 2030. Heat pumps offer clean energy usage that alleviates the atmosphere from toxic pollutants in a way that gas boilers cannot albeit to be truly effective the UK government must continue the greening of the electricity grid.

Other alternative forms of clean energy that have become attractive to UK customers include solar. UK residential solar installations throughout

February 2025 have contributed a large percentage of UK national solar capacity – 58MW and account for 73% of newly placed renewable schemes.

Statistics accumulated and released by the Microgeneration Certification Scheme (MCS) state that in between January 2024 and January 2025, 2000,010 home solar PV installations were implemented. 2024 saw 2.3GW of solar deployment across the UK, 20% of this is attributed to domestic rooftop solar panels with a further 20% deriving from commercial premises.

A rise in solar purchases can be explained by a drop in average cost to installation in UK household. January 2024 witnessed a domestic mean price of £9,238, whilst in December of the same year the average cost dropped to £7,561. The total average for the year rested at £ 8,198.

Policy is contributing towards the way in which homeowners and businesses select heating and hot water options. The UK alongside Ireland and Portugal were the only three European heat pump markets to expand last year, with sales in France and Germany being significantly reduced due to electrical costs, regulatory and political uncertainty as well as a lack of progress in new construction projects.

Heightened public awareness and acceptance of renewables due to policy amendments is also responsible for a huge increase in solar power distribution. Since 2010 there has been a 18,000% increase in total UK solar capacity. Solar options are popular amongst homeowners with an estimated 1.5 million UK domiciles owning solar panels.

Policy updates and NetZero aims continually produce better market conditions, refinement in technologies and increases in personnel capable of delivering decarbonising product installation. In 2024, 9,062 individuals successfully completed heat pumps training qualification courses, equating to a 15% increase from 2023.

Despite the dominance of gas boilers as heating and hot water provision for domestic and commercial properties alternative clean and renewable energy markets continue to grow and gain traction. Additional legislation like the Future Homes Standard 2025 and more stringent conditions towards EPCs (Energy Performance Certificates) will strengthen directives that enforce cleaner energy technologies upon households and commercial dwellings.

Future UK energies aim to be carbon neutral, all current renewable markets are in a healthy position and continue to expand with additional growth expected in the coming years. Work on encouraging lower income households also continues. It is estimated that only 19% of heat pumps are in the poorest third of areas whilst 45% are installed in the richest third of neighbourhoods. Initiatives like the Boiler Upgrade Scheme are assisting these ambitions.

Domestic and commercial properties are adapting the way in the which the UK seeks out and distributes cleaner energy, meaning that natural gas usage will be at some point be vastly reduced, then eliminated altogether.

To discuss a range of decarbonising solution with Rinnai experts contact us today https://www.rinnai-uk.co.uk/ contact-us/help-me-choose-product

THE IMPORTANCE OF THERMALLY ISOLATING HVAC SYSTEMS TO MEET INDUSTRY AIMS

In the industry today, construction projects have shifted focus to implementing solutions that help create energy-efficient buildings and also improve air quality, all in the aid of futureproofing our environment. It is no stranger to anyone that there is a strong emphasis across many industries to implement sustainable solutions and support the race to net zero, and for the construction sector, building energyefficient buildings is vital to ensuring we reach the low emissions target. But, this isn’t the only concern as indoor air quality (IAQ) must also be addressed.

According to the National Human Activity Pattern Survey (NHAPS), adults in the UK spend approximately 90% of their lifetime indoors, unbeknowingly breathing in harmful pollutants, originating from mould spores and volatile compounds in household products. Because of this, there has been a rise in installing HVAC systems in order to improve a buildings’ efficiency and its indoor air quality, but due to disrupting the continuous insulation of the building envelope, they aren’t as energy-efficient as you might think. Paul Beech, General Manager at Armatherm™, discusses more about the importance of thermally isolating fixtures to ensure optimal efficiency and reduce energy loss.

HVAC systems have become one of the go-to solutions to help regulate temperatures in both new and existing buildings, with the idea that they would help to improve the efficiency of the building by reducing energy usage and costs. However, because of the way they are installed, it actually compromises it. This is because when it comes to thermal performance, anything that penetrates the building envelope can create a bridge which allows energy to transfer easily through the connection, causing issues with heat loss and condensation. Due to how HVAC systems are installed, they are susceptible to thermal bridging occurring and if left unaddressed, the problems connected with it.

solutions are not put in place surrounding thermal bridging, these areas are vulnerable to cold spots which can lead to condensation and mould growing within the walls. This further adds to the issue surrounding poor indoor air quality as the element that is supposed to be improving the IAQ, is actually part of the problem. Because of this, it is essential that the connection between the HVAC and the building envelope is properly isolated to prevent thermal bridging and the subsequent health issues associated with poor indoor air quality.

This doesn’t mean that HVACs shouldn’t be installed as they can be vital to reducing energy usage by regulating temperatures, which with the ever nearing goal of net zero looming, it is essential that any factor that could improve a building’s efficiency is considered. But, it does mean that solutions that combat thermal bridging also need to be implemented to ensure that the HVAC is as effective as possible.

Thermal breaks are one solution that have been developed to help combat thermal bridging, with various products on the market to be utilised in different applications. In this case, thermal breaks can be installed to isolate the connection between the HVAC system

and the building itself, restricting the movement of energy. Implementing these solutions reduces heat loss by up to 90%, improving the overall efficiency of the building, whilst also combating the issues surrounding condensation and henceforth enhancing the indoor air quality. Although it isn’t compulsory to put these solutions in place, it is however recommended that they are considered especially with the net zero aims that need to be met and the health risks associated with poor indoor air quality.

To ensure that the industry meets its sustainability targets, reducing energy is one of the major changes that need to be made. By installing solutions like HVAC systems, they can considerably help to limit overconsumption of energy by regulating temperatures, but to ensure they work efficiently, it is vital they are also implemented in conjunction with thermal break solutions. This is because HVAC systems disrupt the continuous insulation of the building. There are other sustainable solutions that can be implemented to help reduce energy consumption such as utilising renewable sources or upgrading insulation and windows, but again these elements also penetrate the building envelope causing problems with thermal bridging. Therefore, in order to be more successful in limiting energy usage, whilst meeting net zero aims and reducing the risk of poor indoor air quality, combating thermal bridging is the problem that needs addressing. www.armatherm.co.uk

Often overlooked, thermal bridging is a common issue which can be combatted by isolating the connections where highly conductive materials meet and where the building envelope is penetrated. When

HOW SMARTER LIGHTING PLATFORMS UNLOCK OPERATIONAL EFFICIENCY

Intelligent lighting platforms double as a network of advanced sensors, giving facilities managers live occupancy, environmental and fault data to cut energy use, speed up maintenance and future-proof estates. Here, Russell Vanstone, Product Manager – Connected Buildings at Legrand UK & Ireland, explains how integrated controls, open protocols and IT-led approaches deliver measurable operational savings.

Lighting controls are no longer just about controlling lighting. Over the past decade they have evolved into a networked layer that supports building-wide control, asset management and energy optimisation. For public sector estates where budgets, regulatory targets and service continuity all matter, treating lighting as part of a broader set of resources makes practical sense. Doing so enables facilities teams to draw on a steady stream of live data without installing separate sensing networks.

CONNECTING LIGHTING INTO THE ENERGY ECOSYSTEM

When lighting controls use open protocols and integrate with building management systems, they become an instant source of operational intelligence. Real-time dashboards translate occupancy data, fault diagnostics and daylight levels into actionable insights: automatic dimming to reduce peak demand, alerts to plan maintenance before fittings fail, and occupancy-driven schedules that align heating and ventilation with realworld needs. This level of data availability is how lighting control is becoming integral to the public sector’s energy ecosystems – it supplies the inputs that energy managers need to control energy consumption and meet efficiency targets. Modern multi-function sensors can incorporate presence detection, lux sensing and basic environmental telemetry. Alongside motion sensing, these devices can provide anonymised headcount estimates, patterns of room use and levels of daylight. Facilities teams can feed that information into spaceplanning, consider whether rarely used rooms should be repurposed, or link occupancy trends to HVAC schedules so it only runs when people are present. Where systems include temperature or humidity sensors, those readings can be surfaced on the same dashboard, reducing the need for separate monitoring hardware.

PUTTING THE IT IN LIGHTING

Lighting networks now function as IT systems as much as electrical ones, requiring the same focus on connectivity, security and data, offering three immediate benefits. First, a networked lighting estate can be managed remotely – faults are logged with diagnostic and location information, so engineers arrive with the right spares first time. Second, centralised configuration and software-led commissioning can speed up deployment across multisite portfolios. Third, when lighting is an IP-attached element of the estate it becomes available to broader analytics platforms and enables consolidated energy reporting as well as automated responses that would be difficult to achieve through legacy electrical wiring alone. Public buildings are repurposed more often than many planners expect. A classroom becomes a conference room; a civic hall is split into smaller lettable rooms. Wattstopper PLUS supports wired, wireless and hybrid options while also allowing luminaires and sensors to be reassigned in software to new room boundaries – minimising physical rewiring. Commissioning tools like Polaris Config speed up initial setup, while Polaris Monitor provides ongoing visibility. Together they let teams reconfigure scenes and occupancy profiles as layouts and use patterns evolve.

Viewing lighting as a flexible layer can reduce long-term cost. Phased refurbishments become feasible because new zones can be commissioned and integrated without complex reconfigurations. By using comprehensive status reporting and fault logs, proactive maintenance lowers the likelihood of emergency repairs and extends the life of components. Aggregated data builds a clear picture of energy use and asset health, helping estates managers focus on the priorities that deliver the best lifecycle return rather than chasing short-term savings.

WHAT DOES OPTIMISED EFFICIENCY LOOK LIKE?

In practice, optimised energy efficiency would almost certainly include aspects such as scheduled dimming during low-occupancy periods to reduce energy consumption, automated load shedding tied to building-wide demand response, or remote diagnostics that cut time needed on site for engineers. For example, retail and high-footfall public spaces can benefit from reducing lighting when headcount dips. Similarly, offices can adopt scheduled scenes to lower energy use during lunch hours. These are pragmatic, measurable interventions that align with net zero commitments and everyday budget pressures.

Advanced lighting control platforms such as Legrand’s Wattstopper PLUS make automation, reporting and maintenance simpler while enabling growth and change. Choosing a supplier who supports technical design, full-service commissioning and training reduces implementation risk and ensures the system continues to deliver value long after the installation is complete – including commissioning assistance and support, both remote and on-site.

PRACTICAL, INCREMENTAL, STRATEGIC

Modern lighting controls are a costeffective route to more usable operational data, smarter energy use and lower whole-life cost. Treating lighting as an IT system – not just an electrical service – transforms how it can be designed, managed and integrated making buildings more adaptable, maintainable and aligned to evolving policy and occupancy demands. That mix of immediate operational wins and longer-term lifecycle savings is why lighting control should be carefully considered as part of any estates strategy.

For more on Wattstopper PLUS, see Legrand.co.uk

HEAT NETWORKS: HOW NEXT-GENERATION REGULATIONS AND STANDARDS WILL DELIVER FOR CUSTOMERS AND THE ENVIRONMENT

Heat networks are a hot topic, not only as a result of new legislation, but as we’re seeing a step-change in functionality and efficiency. In this article, Louise Manfredi, CEO of Leep Utilities, talks about how Ofgem regulations and fifth-generation approaches are making heat networks a sound investment.

The UK government recently announced that Ofgem will take over regulation of heat network providers. It’s welcome news for heat network customers, who until now haven’t had statutory protection, and are often tied in to contracts they can’t influence or exit. Unlike gas and electricity, heat network customers can’t simply switch heat suppliers, and their costs are based on shared infrastructure that

can’t be changed at an individual level.

Ofgem will start to regulate heat networks in January 2026, and its published requirements are pretty much as everyone expected. Providers will be required to deliver fair pricing and clearer billing, including notice of tariff changes, as well as ensuring they meet the technical standards needed for efficient and reliable services. Ofgem will also provide a formal dispute resolution service for customers and suppliers.

Some heat network providers do already meet these requirements, but for many this will mean a significant workload to bring systems and processes into alignment. Work on these systems needs to be advanced if providers want to be sure of meeting the 2026 deadline.

Overall, the new rules bring heat in line with the regulation of other energy sources, broadly speaking, and will provide a solid foundation for investment in a sector that will significantly expand over the next few decades.

SUPPORTING THE MOVE TO NET ZERO

It’s easy to understand why heat networks are increasing in popularity and number. They are ideal for providing efficient, low-carbon heat, particularly in dense urban areas. Heat is generated centrally from a range of different sources and distributed through a pipe network to nearby properties.

With the UK on a firm path to net zero greenhouse gas emissions by 2050, heat networks offer an unrivalled opportunity to reduce the carbon associated with heating homes and businesses, as well as providing cost-effective energy solutions.

HEAT NETWORKS

It’s estimated that 3% of heating systems in the UK are provided through heat networks currently, and that for the UK to reach its 2050 target this number will need to increase to around 18%.

The total investment expected across the sector between now and then will be somewhere in the region of £80bn, not only for building new heat networks, but to upgrade older heat networks to meet the latest technical specifications.

IT’S TIME FOR A NEW GENERATION

Today’s modern heat networks are a far cry from where they started, in London in the late 19th Century, when excess heat from the coal-fired Battersea power station generated steam that heated local homes through concrete ducts. The irony of this location is not lost on us, as Leep has been a utility partner for the redevelopment of Battersea power station over the last few years.

Every new generation of heat network since then has become increasingly efficient – operating at lower network temperatures, and integrating new and sustainable fuel sources, and waste incineration to recapture energy that would otherwise be lost.

Today, the UK has approximately 18,000 heat networks, many of which are legacy third-generation networks, built from the 1970s onwards in response to the oil crisis of the time.

These networks are fuelled in the most part by centralised gas boilers – highly unsustainable – and heat the network to nearly 100ºC – unnecessarily hot.

HEAT NETWORKS: THE NEXT GENERATION

Fourth-generation networks addressed some of the failings of earlier technology, reducing the network temperature to below 70ºC and enabling the integration of renewable power sources and energy from waste. But in fact, the recent focus on net zero has enabled us to quickly move on to a new generation of heat network.

But fifth-generation heat networks represent a major evolution in how we deliver heating and cooling. These systems operate at near-ambient temperatures (typically between 10–30ºC), allowing them to integrate a wide range of low-grade and waste heat sources that were previously unusable.

It means we can now recover energy from multiple and unconventional sources, such as sewage treatment processes, or waste heat from the ventilation shafts of the London Underground – something that is already happening today. It also includes heat rejected from cooling systems, which will help to create a more balanced and efficient thermal energy network.

Rather than relying on a single centralised energy centre, fifth-

generation systems enable networks and buildings to be fitted with heat pumps that raise the ambient temperature to meet internal demands. These same systems could operate in reverse to provide cooling, feeding surplus heat back into the network where it can be reused by others.

While a mix of technologies will continue to play a role in the short term – and Leep will take a technologyagnostic view on this – the long-term transition is likely to be led by the deployment of large-scale heat pumps capable of displacing gas-fired CHP and traditional boiler plant. It will pave the way for cleaner, more resilient heat infrastructure that is capable of serving city-scale networks which could eventually be interconnected.

It’s an exciting time to be involved in heat networks, and we are actively exploring a range of optimisation strategies and future potential across our own portfolio. Projects like Media City UK in Salford, where a centralised energy centre delivers heating, cooling and power to a 200acre mixed-use development show what is already possible, and what future expansion may look like.

As networks continue to evolve, Leep is focused on how they can play an even greater role in supporting the UK’s journey toward net zero. www.leeputilities.co.uk/heat-networks

IDEAL HEATING COMMERCIAL TAKES EXTRA CARE WITH THE HEAT NETWORK AT HUDDERSFIELD

SPECIALIST HOUSING

Ideal Heating Commercial POD Heat Interface Units (HIUs) and Evomax 2 condensing boilers have been installed into Ash View Extra Care in Huddersfield as part of a heat network designed to heat the 50 one and two bedroom flats and communal areas, along with hot water, at this new development for Kirklees Council.

Ash View Extra Care is a specialist housing development, designed to maintain the independence of older people who have care and/or support needs.

Ideal Heating Commercial has supplied four Evomax 2 100kW wallmounted boilers in cascade as the energy centre at Ash View Extra Care, and 50 POD HIUs with first fix kits and factory fitted hard wired Mbus heat meters.

Evomax 2 is the UK’s number 1 selling wall hung commercial boiler. Highly efficient, it has up to 99.6% full load efficiency and up to 110% part load efficiency, can operate at up to 30° Δ T, and boasts a high turndown of 5:1. The four Evomax 2 boilers at Ash View Extra Care are running in cascade on a standard height frame and header kit delivering 400kW of output for an energy efficient solution, as the cascade can turn down to accurately match any load from 400 - 20kW (20:1). This method also increases the

DEVELOPMENT

proportion of time where the boilers are modulating at part load, instead of cycling on and off, to satisfy the changing demands of the network over a day.

The PODs installed in each of the self-contained flats at Ash View Extra Care are indirect i305 HIUs, meaning they contain two highly efficient stainless steel brazed plate heat exchangers to provide complete separation between the heat network for both heating and hot water. For the users at Ash View Extra Care, the POD HIU is reassuring in its familiarity, looking just like a domestic combi boiler from the outside and with similar controls, but instead of burning gas it uses heat exchangers to transfer thermal energy from the distribution network. Its small footprint and compact overall envelope mean it can readily fit in a kitchen or airing cupboard or existing utility area.

As well as being energy efficient, a key benefit of employing a heat network at a facility such as Ash View Extra Care is safety as there are no flue routes or gas connections to accommodate within the premises.

V&T (Plumbing & Heating Services) Ltd. were contracted to install the heating system at Ash View Extra Care via Equans, the principal contractor. V&T install hundreds of Ideal Heating domestic boilers each year and had no hesitation in choosing Ideal’s commercial products for

this project, based on past performance and back up support received: “Our past experience of working with Ideal boilers had an impact on selection, especially with the aftercare service provided” comments Tom Crawford, Design Engineer at V&T. “When we were looking at which HIUs / boilers to propose for the scheme, we looked at the commercial range offered by Ideal and decided to go with both the POD and Evomax 2 as they both met our criteria. It also made sense to stick with one manufacturer.”

Tom has been pleased with the outcome: “Our engineers on site had no issues installing the POD HIUs and found them very similar to the Ideal domestic combi boilers.” POD HIUs have been specifically designed for hassle-free installation, with a first fix kit available which can be delivered and installed ahead of the POD unit so all services can be piped up, filled, flushed, and tested in advance. “The engineers also found installing the Evomax 2s, mounting frames and header arrangement easily; these were fitted in a matter of hours.”

V&T benefited from Ideal Heating Commercial’s free commissioning service on the Evomax 2, which automatically applies a five year warranty on the appliance at no extra cost.

For more information on Ideal Heating Commercial, visit www.idealcommercialheating.co.uk

FAST, EFFICIENT, SCALABLE: THE REAL STORY BEHIND EV CHARGING SPEEDS

As the UK accelerates its transition to electric vehicles (EVs), charging speed remains a critical factor in determining how seamlessly EVs can integrate into both business operations and broader transport infrastructure.

The challenge is twofold: supporting the infrastructure needed for faster charging while managing the demands placed on local grids. It’s a technical tightrope of balancing power, performance, and practicality, and it sits at the heart of how the UK’s EV ecosystem will evolve in the years ahead.

Yet delivering on those expectations is not as simple as plugging in and powering up. Unlike internal combustion engine (ICE) vehicles, EV charging speed is influenced by a complex mix of factors across charger type, battery chemistry, vehicle software, ambient temperature, and, crucially, grid capacity. These variables interact in ways that make real-world charging outcomes far more nuanced than EV brochure specs or Charge Point Operators might suggest.

THE AC VS DC DIVIDE

At the core of EV charging is the distinction between AC (alternating current) and DC (direct current) charging. The UK’s grid supplies AC power, but EV batteries operate on DC, meaning AC charging requires the vehicle’s onboard charger to convert electricity before it reaches the battery. This process introduces conversion losses, typically in the form of heat, and limits the effective charging speed to 7kW to 22kW.

DC chargers bypass the vehicle’s onboard system and deliver power directly to the battery at much higher rates. Public DC chargers at motorway services can typically deliver 100kW or more, with ultra-rapid chargers now pushing well beyond 150kW. For many EV cars, this can equate to an 80% charge in under 45 minutes, ideal for long journeys or quick fleet turnarounds.

Yet, even this high-speed solution is not without caveats. Battery temperature is a critical factor in charge speed. Lithium-ion batteries operate optimally within a narrow temperature range. In cold conditions below about 5°C, chemical reactions slow, reducing the mobility of lithium ions and increasing resistance within the battery. This can lead to longer charge times and

Sally Bailey, UK Head of Electric Vehicle Charging, Vestel Mobility

higher energy losses. Conversely, in hot conditions, typically above 35°C, batteries face risks of thermal degradation, necessitating controlled (read: slowed) charging to avoid damage.

Modern EVs use battery management systems (BMS) and thermal control technologies to mitigate these effects, from preconditioning strategies that warm batteries before charging to active cooling systems that dissipate excess heat. Even with these measures, planning infrastructure or forecasting energy loads throughout the seasons, particularly at sites with high traffic volumes or diverse vehicle usage profiles, remains challenging.

silicon-based anodes and solid-state cells, promise to reduce EV charging times and extend battery lifespan. Meanwhile, advances in smart grid integration, predictive demand analytics, and renewable energy sourcing will help ensure that the EV charging infrastructure of tomorrow is faster, greener, and more efficient.

DEMANDING TIMES

THE GRID CHALLENGE

Perhaps the most pressing concern for the energy management sector is grid capacity. Fast charging, especially in clusters like motorway service stations or fleet terminals, can place enormous strain on local distribution networks. Load balancing technologies are incorporated into all DC charging hardware, dynamically allocating power across chargers based on real-time demand. This can help alleviate the pressure on the grid, but the net result is highly variable, and often much slower EV charge speeds at busy times.

Long-term solutions lie in strategic grid upgrades and, in some cases, the deployment of local battery energy storage systems (BESS). These systems can store energy during off-peak times and release it to support peak charging loads, acting as a buffer between demand and grid supply. For larger charger sites, remote locations or multi-location networks, BESS and integrated renewable local energy generation represent a practical tool for smoothing energy demand and enhancing resilience.

Innovations in battery design, including

That shift is ever more critical as we transition heavy haulage and public service vehicles (PSVs) to electric power. The combination of massive batteries and the need to minimise downtime of the vehicle exacerbates grid pressure. This is not a ‘future’ problem either. Vestel Mobility works closely with innovators in the UK, like Ryze Power’s PSV conversion team, and we are launching one of Europe’s first 1MW DC chargers for heavy transport later this year.

Energy and grid optimisation for higher EV charge speeds requires a holistic understanding of energy flow, technology, infrastructure limits, and user behaviour. It’s not just about installing faster chargers; it’s about creating intelligent systems that balance speed with sustainability, cost, and grid stability.

At Vestel Mobility, we see the demand for charge speed as a catalyst for innovation across the energy sector. By embracing the complexity and investing in smart, scalable solutions, energy leaders can help drive the UK’s transition to a cleaner, electrified future, where EVs of all sizes charge faster, fleets move smarter, and the grid works more efficiently for everyone. www.vestal-mobility.co.uk

RENEWABLES AT A CROSSROADS: TURNING GRID INSTABILITY AND POLICY UNCERTAINTY INTO STRATEGIC ADVANTAGE

The renewable energy sector is in a constant upwards spiral of growth and evolution. These changes have brought on a new set of priorities, especially around the importance grid stability and smooth integration of renewable energy sources. The latter is a challenge to most countries, although each of these geographies has its additional new unique set of obstacles to overcome.

Businesses are at the forefront of the decarbonisation revolution, and it is essential for them to understand these differences in order to navigate them and advance in their shift towards sustainability.

Thankfully, technology is evolving fast enough to turn these countryspecific challenges into opportunities. From asset performance management software to battery energy storage systems, these solutions will reinforce efforts made by both the private and public sectors to keep moving towards a sustainable, strong and stable grid.

ONE COUNTRY, ONE CHALLENGE

Businesses in the renewable sector, regardless of where they operate, face the same challenges: intermittency of power, securing investment, grid integration and stability. Nevertheless, all countries have different geographical and historical experiences, that bring with them a unique set of obstacles.

We can find good examples of this on both sides of the pond. In the United States over the last few years the renewable energy market experienced a boom that was supported by state and federal policies like the 2022 Inflation Reduction Act (IRA). This policy has driven unprecedented growth in since it was created, but recent legal and political challenges as

Roberto Tundo, BaxEnergy Executive Vice President explores how companies can overcome fragmentation, investment risk, and system volatility by adopting intelligent energy technologies.

well as regulatory inconsistencies across the many states brought high levels of uncertainty, which have slowed down momentum and, in some extreme cases, taking companies to bankruptcy.

In May this year we saw the US government approve the Big Beautiful Bill, which is threatening to reverse a lot of the progress made in energy storage, wind and solar projects that would have before been eligible for tax credits established by the previous US administration. These big political changes are also making investors more risk-averse and have already started reversing the progress made.

On the Iberian peninsula, Spain has become a world leader in renewable energy, with one of the largest solar and wind power capabilities in Europe and beyond. Unfortunately for the country, as impressive as its fast-paced adoption of clean power has been, it has also exposed severe vulnerabilities in its grid’s resilience. These were brought to light during the peninsula-wide blackout that took place in April this year, which brought to attention the need for robust balancing and backup mechanisms.

investment, as part of the organisation’s efforts to prioritise clean energy projects through a new fast-track queue.

The UK’s Contracts for Difference scheme is another good example of a successful initiative to support low carbon electricity generation. Launched ten years ago by the Department for Energy Security and Net Zero to incentivise investment into renewable energy, it has so far resulted in 128 renewable electricity projects being developed across three signed CfD contracts, which are delivering enough power to light up 11 million homes – a total of 9.6GW.

KEY OPPORTUNITIES FOR THE SECTOR

Sitting in between these two, the United Kingdom faces its own challenges and network connection delays, with projects taking years to connect to the power grid. The UK government recently announced the National Energy System Operator’s (NESO) new plan to reform grid connections and unlock billions in

The biggest opportunity for the renewable energy sector lies in the merging of clean energy with advanced technology that turns intermittent renewable generation into high-value and reliable power. As countries race toward net-zero targets, the scale of deployment needed is enormous and

companies that can deliver projects efficiently and integrate them smoothly will become market leaders.

I believe that there are two pieces of technology that will be central to this transformation. The first one is Battery Energy Storage Systems (BESS), which will be key to provide fast-response power to optimise its distribution while ensuring the grid remains stable. In turn, this transforms renewable plants from mere energy suppliers into flexible resources that can replace traditional power plants’ roles. Supported by AI, real-time controls and data analytics, businesses will be able to sustainably optimise their assets’ performance, by increasing the value of each megawatt.

Secondly, intelligent control platforms, such as Asset Performance Management (APM) software, will be key. These platforms integrate multiple energy assets into a unified control layer, participation in ancillary service markets, enabling predictive analytics and efficiency optimisation. It’s not only large established market players who can access APMs – community projects and smaller-scale operators

have many platforms available that offer these services, providing the opportunity to start optimising and optimising their assets

APMs bring data-driven decisionmaking to businesses who might have otherwise relied on spreadsheets or disparate OEM platforms by lowering the barriers to entry. Users have the opportunity to onboard their assets within minutes, integrate data from wind, solar, and battery systems all in one place as well as design and configure custom dashboards. Major players and small IPPs are equally empowered by the ease of use and scalability APMs bring with them, which will be increasingly important as the sector keeps growing.

THERE ARE CHANGES AHEAD

Despite the growing pains the renewable energy sector is experiencing, we are now going through a time full of opportunities. Solutions are being developed for the range of challenges different countries are facing, some through policy and other through technology. These results will benefit businesses across borders.

Finding ways to tackle these obstacles is key for governments who want to support businesses’ efforts to decarbonise. Technology and innovation are essential parts of this journey - the most durable long-term solution to address reliability and sustainability simultaneously is for businesses is to embrace BESS and APM. This technology will be essential in the next few years as the sector continues to mature and sets itself up as a reliable and sustainable energy source. Furthermore, in a market that is becoming more dynamic, AI and decentralised energy systems will enable renewable operators to play a role in grid balancing.

Businesses navigating the renewable transition face growing complexity, from policy reversals to grid instability. But through effective control platforms and scalable energy storage, companies can transform these risks into a competitive edge. The winners will be those who integrate fast, scale smart, and embrace data-led sustainability. www.baxenergy.com

BSUOS CHARGES TO RISE 46% FROM OCTOBER 2025 – WHAT THIS MEANS FOR CORPORATE ENERGY BUYERS

Table 1

Neil Fraser. Client Relationship Manager – NonCommodity Specialist

From 1 October 2025, the UK’s electricity balancing charge – known as the Balancing Services Use of System (BSUoS) – will rise significantly, with the tariff increasing from £10.74/ MWh (1.074 p/kWh) to £15.69/MWh (1.569 p/kWh). The new rate will remain in place until 31 March 2026. This 46% increase will have a direct impact on businesses with pass-through energy contracts, as BSUoS costs are itemised separately on invoices and passed directly to endusers. For companies with substantial electricity consumption, the change will represent a noticeable uplift in costs.

WHAT IS BSUOS?

BSUoS stands for Balancing Services Use of System. It is a charge set by the UK’s National Energy System Operator (NESO) to recover the cost of keeping the electricity grid stable and secure. These costs cover activities such as: Adjusting generation when demand suddenly changes

• Managing supply during periods of constraint

Maintaining system frequency and reliability

Since April 2023, BSUoS has been recovered from final demand users through their suppliers. For businesses on pass-through contracts, this means the charge is shown transparently as a line item on invoices and fluctuates in line with NESO’s six-monthly tariff updates.

THE OCTOBER 2025 INCREASE

The next tariff change (Fixed Tariff 6) will see BSUoS rise by nearly half compared to the April–September 2025 level. For illustration see Table 1: For a business consuming 1.4 GWh over six months, this represents a cost increase of nearly £7,000 purely from BSUoS charges.

WHY THIS MATTERS FOR CORPORATE BUYERS

For organisations managing large or multi-site portfolios, the upcoming rise underscores the importance of understanding the components of pass-through contracts. While these contracts provide transparency and can offer cost advantages when markets fall, they also expose businesses directly to changes in regulated charges such as BSUoS.

Key considerations include:

• Budget certainty: Forecasting for April 2025–March 2026 should include higher BSUoS costs.

• Procurement strategy: Weighing the pros and cons of fixed vs passthrough contracts depending on appetite for risk and transparency.

• Efficiency focus: Reducing overall consumption can help mitigate the impact of rising noncommodity costs like BSUoS.

LOOKING AHEAD: FORECASTED BSUOS RATES FOR 2026

The October 2025 increase is part of the UK’s evolving energy cost landscape, with balancing costs expected to remain under pressure as the grid transitions to higher levels of renewables and flexibility services. NESO sets BSUoS tariffs twice a year, meaning further adjustments can be expected from April 2026. We will continue to keep you updated but at present, the forecasted rates for April 2026 – October 2026 are:

April-26 to September-26 –1.455 p/kWh October-26 to March-27 –1.103 p/kWh

For corporate buyers, understanding these changes - and building them into procurement and risk management strategies - is essential to staying in control of energy budgets.

REFERENCES

https://www.neso.energy/industryinformation/charging/balancingservices-use-system-bsuos-charges www.optimised.net

RINNAI UK LAUNCHES APPLIED PRODUCTS DIVISION

Rinnai is launching a new division –Rinnai Applied – which

will be dedicated

to the design, supply and service of larger HVAC units and systems

that will

meet the specific heating, ventilation, air conditioning and hot water demands of commercial and industrial premises.

Applied Products, or sometimes known as Applied Solutions, consist of wide ranges of advanced air conditioning, ventilation, and heating systems designed for commercial and larger building projects. These systems offer tailored and bespoke solutions for complex HVAC needs, focusing on energy efficiency and integration into specific building designs to meet sustainability goals and comfort requirements.

Applied Products in the HVAC sector are projected to expand in global growth rate by almost 7% in the coming few years, according to a leading market intelligence & research agency. The value of the 2024 global HVAC marketplace stands at approximately $280 Billion, and it is projected to rise significantly to $390 Billion by the end of this decade.

Rinnai Managing Director – Tony Gittings, believes in the need for the entire HVAC industry supply chain to work in unison so that optimum products and systems are delivered to the HVAC commercial & industrial building sector:

“For the building services consultants, designers, larger M&E contractors, and end users it could mean that they will adapt to this changing market by asking more from others in the supply chain. I have spent my career – almost 45

years now – in product manufacturing and I have never seen a greater need for flexibility and versatility from the manufacturers and suppliers.

“Also, I want to give special mention to specialist HVAC Sales Engineers –these are highly skilled and experienced analytical people who help customers understand Applied Products and how they can be efficiently and optimally utilised. These practitioners also select products and prepare proposals for clients which include quantifiable data to support HVAC systems offered.

“The HVAC manufacturer will need to be a true partner to all those in the design, installation, and commissioning sector. We will need to offer design; full evaluation of each site in terms of practical, economic, and technical considerations; full quantitative data on CAPEX, OPEX services and life cycle costings.”

The industry growth is motivated by the global energy transition and international demand for energy efficient methods of providing acceptable HVAC products and systems. All new HVAC systems and accompanying condiments must be low carbon, best exemplified by refrigerants – hence the proliferation of R290 low GWP refrigerant.

The market is being propelled by all governments instigating immediate initiatives to encourage individuals, bodies, institutions, industries, and all developments to use energy-efficient HVAC systems in all their work areas and homes. The resurgence in HVAC applied products is best highlighted from the 1980/90s era when there was a marked move from centralised to decentralised plant installations. Now centralised systems are considered an ideal solution for heating, ventilation, and air conditioning.

Adds Tony Gittings, “A change in approach to HVAC products is making the industry take on the challenge of an inevitable reset. Gas-fired appliances such as commercial and residential boilers will be on the descent with an ever-decreasing market share.

“Electricity is well placed as the dominant future globe fuel but hydrogen, synthetic fuels, LNG (Liquified Natural Gas), and BioLPG are all being actively developed for the mass markets. Electricity will be generated from a variety of sources, all of which will be from renewable and sustainable sources such as solar thermal or heat pump appliances.

He concludes by adding, “At Rinnai we offer all these services within our mantra of ‘Creating a Healthier Way of Living’”. www.rinnaiuk.com

Tony Gittings