Issuu

Explore how our event unfolds here

Radisson Hotel & Conference Centre, London Heathrow 22nd & 23rd September 2025

SEPTEMBER 2025

PUBLISHER: Ralph Scrivens ralph@ energymanagermagazine.co.uk

PRODUCTION: Sarah Daviner sarah@ energymanagermagazine.co.uk

ACCOUNTS: accounts@ energymanagermagazine.co.uk

PRINT: Mixam Print

ENERGY MANAGER MAGAZINE is published 10 times a year by Energy Manager.

www.energymanagermagazine.co.uk

42 Wymington Park, Rushden, Northants, NN10 9JP

Email: mail@energymanagermagazine.co.uk

REGISTRATION: Qualifying readers receive Energy Manager free of charge. The annual subscription rate is £80 in the UK, £95 for mainland Europe and £115 for the rest of the world.

Single copies £10.

Some manufacturers and suppliers have made a contribution toward the cost of reproducing some photographs in Energy Manager.

PAPER USED TO PRODUCE THIS MAGAZINE IS SOURCED FROM SUSTAINABLE FORESTS.

Please Note: No part of this publication may be reproduced by any means without prior permission from the publishers. The publishers do not accept any responsibility for, or necessarily agree with, any views expressed in articles, letters or supplied advertisements.

BABCOCK WANSON GROUP RELEASES NEW SUSTAINABLE SOLUTIONS BROCHURE

The Babcock Wanson Group, of which industrial process heating equipment and solutions specialist Babcock Wanson UK is a founding company, has released a new brochure covering its many and varied sustainable solutions.

As a major international supplier of boiler rooms and associated equipment, operating in more than 13 countries, Babcock Wanson Group has become a major player when it comes to energy transition, offering increasingly carbon-free heat production solutions for industry. Its ambition is to enable customers to reduce their fossil fuel consumption and achieve their targets for reducing their environmental footprint.

The energy transition solutions deployed by the Group’s brands are built around four major pillars, which are explained within the new brochure: decarbonisation, energy performance, reduction of polluting emissions, and recovery & re-use.

Decarbonisation is being addressed by Babcock Wanson Group through the development of alternative solutions to the use of fossil fuels in steam and hot water production. This includes a range of electric boilers which have been introduced over recent year; hybrid solutions that

allow customers to use the best available energy source at any given time; and combustion solutions based on renewable energy such as hydrogen, biogas and oxycombustion. These are detailed within the new sustainable solutions brochure.

For existing boilers, Babcock Wanson Group is addressing energy performance by optimising several aspects: ensuring seamless matching of burners with the heated vessel; adapting water treatment to the quality of the water available; and remote monitoring of heating systems. Combined, these actions reduce the consumption of fossil fuels, reducing NOx and CO2 emissions in the process.

This latter aspect forms part of the Group’s commitment to reducing polluting emissions. This is taken one step further through the provision of equipment specifically designed to capture and eliminate air pollutants generated by industrial installations. Its thermal oxidation solutions, including regenerative, recuperative and deodorising options

outlined in the brochure, are highly effective at treating VOCs and odours.

The last pillar in Babcock Wanson Group’s energy transition plan, recovery and re-use looks at best practice in managing natural resources. The Group’s solution to water management issues is to provide solutions for recovering and reintegrating part of the water discharged, thereby reducing water consumption. Solvent recovery and waste heat recovery are also covered within the brochure, outlining the recovery options and the savings that can be made.

“We are proud to play a leading European role in providing clean solutions for industrial steam and heat production” states Cyril Fournier-Montgieux, Chairman of the Babcock Wanson Group. “This exciting challenge is an extraordinary source of motivation for all the teams in our Group, enabling us to make a vital contribution to improving our world.

“Drawing on their history and complementary added values across different backgrounds and industries, our brands enable the Group to offer unique expertise to its customers and markets across the entire value chain. Structured in this way, we can accompany our customers on the road to decarbonisation.”

For a copy of the new Babcock Wanson Group Sustainable Solutions brochure, go to www.babcock-wanson-group.com/ our-solutions

KEITH ANDERSON HONOURED BY UNIVERSITY OF STRATHCLYDE FOR LEADERSHIP IN CLEAN ENERGY

ScottishPower CEO

Keith Anderson has been awarded an honorary doctorate by the University of Strathclyde –recognising his role in driving forward the UK’s clean energy ambitions and transforming how we power our lives.

Since becoming CEO in 2018, Keith has led ScottishPower through a major green transformation – it was the first integrated energy company in the UK to go 100% green and it now continues to invest at a record level across the country.

Keith is now spearheading a £24 billion investment programme to supercharge the UK’s clean energy infrastructure, create thousands of green jobs, and help deliver a fairer, more sustainable future. He said, “This is a huge honour – not just for me, but for everyone at ScottishPower who is working every day to deliver a cleaner, more affordable and more secure energy future that will benefit everybody.

“We’re not just talking about change – we’re building it. From windfarms to grid upgrades, from community support to climate action, our company is proving that a better future isn’t just possible – it’s already happening.”

Professor Sir Jim McDonald, Principal

and Vice-Chancellor of the University of Strathclyde, said: “Keith’s leadership in clean energy is not only transforming the sector – it’s inspiring the next generation of engineers, scientists and innovators.

In April this year Keith was awarded British Business Leader of the Year at the British Business Awards. He was recognised for his contribution to the energy sector and broader impact on the UK economy. www.scottishpower.co.uk www.strath.ac.uk/

Direct-to-room

ZONAL PRICING’S OFF THE TABLE – WHAT’S NEXT?

Now that zonal pricing has officially been rejected by the Department of Energy and Net Zero, national pricing reform stands as the viable pathway forward. While some are breathing a sigh of relief and others express disappointment, everyone now has questions about how the UK’s energy industry moves forward. With technological advances, such as AI and data centres, steadily demanding more power, an increase in personal energy consumption in the general population, and aging infrastructure putting pressure on the grid, incremental reform will not address the scale of the problem quickly enough. Wholesale transformation is urgently needed –but what exactly needs to be done?

Although reform is absolutely needed, it’s important to acknowledge that the current system isn’t broken. The UK has one of the most advanced electricity systems in the world, with other countries looking to it as the benchmark to emulate. Subsequently, those in power may be tempted to simply make small upgrades in specific areas. However, the fact is that the National Grid in its current form won’t be able to service the Britain of the future. With Keir Starmer’s promise to become a “world leader in AI” and the government’s announcement of £25 billion investment in a range of digital infrastructure measures including new data centres, the UK’s energy consumption is on the verge of skyrocketing.

To adequately support and stabilise the use of AI, three foundational issues must be addressed: having enough, stable power to support the data centres; being able to connect sites to the grid easily and quickly; and ensuring affordable electricity prices to attract investment from the global corporations which could select anywhere in the world for the sites.

The UK’s electricity grid is currently incredibly stable, but that’s because of its reliance on non-renewable energy sources, with 58% of the grid powered this way according to Uswitch,. It’s not for lack of renewable energy either – constraint payments, where renewable producers are paid not to supply power to the grid are a much-criticised feature of the energy industry, underscoring the disconnect between production and infrastructure. The government has poured billions of pounds into innovation in renewable energy sources, including but not limited to, offshore wind, solar and biomass, and while

Bhikhu Samat, legal director in the energy team at law firm, Shakespeare Martineau.

there has undoubtedly been significant progress in these areas, it will take time before the technology that will allow the grid to be both stable and be 100 per cent renewable, can be scaled nationally.

The connection and infrastructure for developments is too slow catch up to where the demand for electricity actually is. The fact is it can take up to 14 years for a pylon to be built because of the delays in the planning process. Without this vital infrastructure, the grid cannot be effectively upgraded. There are two ways this problem could be tackled.

In the short term, the government could look at creating Green Energy Hubs. Instead of waiting for infrastructure to connect the power to towns, the government should site communities where there is an abundance of green energy. Earlier this year, plans were revealed to build new towns across the country, further driving their housebuilding agenda. While hundreds of sites have been submitted for consideration, the government should look at prioritising those that are already positioned near renewable energy sources. This would mean that instead of paying constraint payments, the renewable energy companies would be supplying communities, and the money that would have been wasted could be used to incentivise businesses, such as data centres, to also be developed alongside. To effectively achieve this, it will be important for the government to collaborate with NESO, which is releasing its Strategic Spatial Energy Planning Approach, which is mapping out the energy generation and storage infrastructure.

In the long term, there needs to be a drive to engage communities early on during the planning process. One way of doing this would be to offer a ‘community kickback’ for grid infrastructure development. Typically, local communities object to infrastructure because they are losing something, whether that be access to the land it’s being built on, a scenic view or even the value of their property. By giving them a financial incentive for infrastructure to be built in their town, the planning process could be eased,

smoothing

community relations and providing social value to the town.

Affordability remains the final and most visible pressure point to address. Currently, the UK has some of the most expensive consumer pricing in the world, ranking the fourth highest in Europe earlier this year. This is largely due to reliance on gas and fossil fuels for generation and the volatile prices that come with them, coupled with the ‘merit order’ pricing system meaning the price of non-renewable energy drives the price for every grid supplier. For as long as the country is relying on non-renewables for a stable grid, it’s subject to the myriad factors that increase prices, from geopolitical instability to seasonal changes. As well as increasing the amount of renewable energy powering the grid, ensuring that properties, businesses and individuals are as energy efficient as possible will help, decreasing average demand. Demand-side resource (DSR) will therefore continue to be crucial to changing consumer behaviour and managing consumption, for example through smart meters, with 67% of homes now having them installed. The government must now educate consumers on making low-carbon choices, such as switching to an electric vehicle or installing a heat pump to help decarbonise homes, to achieve net zero and relieve pressure on the electricity grid. While the current government’s election promise was to “make Britain and clean energy superpower”, that will take more than the £60 billion currently agreed as part of the ‘Grid for Growth’ five-year plan announced in 2024. It seems that current government is intending to upgrade and reform the grid, however, without any confirmed details, the industry is stilled left guessing at what exact changes will be made. Comprehensive reform is not just necessary, it is unavoidable. If the UK is to meet its future energy needs, the time for incrementalism is over. Whether the government has political goodwill to tackle all of the issues is yet to be determined. https://www.shma.co.uk/

STEAM. THE LIFEBLOOD OF HEALTHCARE EFFICIENCY

GRAB A FREE COFFEE AND DISCOVER

OUR NEW EASIHEAT GEN 4 – COMPACT, ENERGY-EFFICIENT, BUILT FOR SMARTER, MORE SUSTAINABLE HEALTHCARE. LET’S BUILD THE FUTURE, TOGETHER.

At Spirax Sarco, sustainability and steam run through our DNA. We deliver smarter, cleaner steam solutions that cut emissions and boost efficiency— powering healthier estates from the inside out.

BUILDINGS THAT THINK: THE RISE OF SMART ENERGY MANAGEMENT

As the UK accelerates towards net zero goals, the built environment, responsible for approximately 25% of the UK’s total carbon footprint, is undergoing a transformation.

Traditional buildings are evolving into intelligent systems that are no longer passive energy consumers and instead are becoming data driven systems that are capable of real time optimisation. At the core of this transition is smart energy management which can deliver substantial savings, improve performance and lower emissions, all essential to a decarbonised built environment.

For decades, buildings have consumed energy without actively managing or optimising its use. Heating, cooling and lighting all ran on fixed schedules or manual controls, often regardless of actual occupancy or demand. This led to widespread inefficiencies, such as an empty office building being fully lit.

Today, several powerful forces are driving the rapid rise of smart buildings.

Through my work at Salix, I am able to see a range of innovative solutions using the very latest smart technology in our buildings.

As organisations commit to net zero targets, improving building efficiency has become a fast and high impact lever for reducing emissions. Additionally, fluctuating energy prices and rising peak demand make efficient energy use an economic necessity for building owners and operators. Traditional energy management models are no longer sustainable, and the pressure to enhance performance, cut costs and future proof assets continues to mount. Meanwhile, advances in AI and sensor technologies have made smart technologies more affordable and scalable which has accelerated adoption. These innovations enable data driven decisions, allowing AI and machine learning algorithms to accurately forecast energy demand, detect faults early as well as optimise consumption.

A smart building integrates automation systems, sensors, meters and AI driven analytics to monitor and manage energy use across a system, such as lighting, HVAC and ventilation and renewables and storge assets on site. They are typically controlled by a Building Management System (BMS) or Building Energy Management System (BEMS) which gather and analyse thousands of real-time data points. In effect, the

Victoria Clarke: Senior Energy and Carbon Analyst, Salix Finance

building becomes capable of “thinking”, observing its environment, learning from patterns and making autonomous decisions. Such thinking can enable a building to adapt to occupant behaviour, environmental conditions and energy pricing automatically. These systems don’t just gather information; they act on it. For example, being able to adjust lighting based on natural sunlight, or even shifting energy usage to off-peak hours to save on cost. This automation has eliminated the need for manual intervention, which drives not only energy savings, but also system resilience and occupant comfort.

While the advantages are clear, challenges do persist. One of the primary concerns is interoperability, as these systems often involve a complex mix of sensors, hardware and software platforms, which must communicate seamlessly. Many legacy systems were never designed for integration, making it difficult to connect older infrastructure with newer technologies. Cybersecurity is another critical issue, as greater connectivity can increase the risk of digital threats if systems are not properly secured. There is also the matter of cost. Smart technologies often require high initial investment, along with the need for ongoing maintenance and skilled personnel to operate and interpret advanced automation and analytics tools effectively.

Still, these barriers seem to be shrinking as technological advancements and supportive policy frameworks reshape the landscape. Modular, scalable solutions now allow owners to retrofit older buildings incrementally, meaning they can upgrade one component at a time, rather than requiring a full overhaul. Cloud based platforms have reduced the need for expensive onsite hardware, making deployment more accessible and flexible.

Additionally, in the UK, regulatory drivers and government incentives are helping to accelerate adoption. Initiatives like the Public Sector Decarbonisation Scheme which we deliver at Salix, has offered funding for upgrades to low-carbon and smart energy systems. Meanwhile, as the industry

increasingly adopts open standards and interoperable technologies, integrating systems such as lighting, HVAC, energy management and security is becoming more streamlined, improving operational efficiency and making buildings more adaptable for the future.

The impact of smart buildings extends far beyond individual properties. By enabling more dynamic and responsive energy use, automation allows buildings to actively support wider grid management strategies, such as demand response, peak load reduction and integration with on-site renewable energy sources. For example, during times of high demand, a smart building could automatically reduce non-essential loads or temporarily shift to battery storage or on-site solar. In effect, the building functions not just as an energy user, but as an energy asset which contributes to grid stability. The shift aligns towards the move to more decentralised, low carbon energy systems. As the line between energy producers and consumer continues to blur, smart buildings are uniquely positioned to support a cleaner and more resilient energy future.

The rise of intelligent, automated energy management therefore represents a fundamental transformation in the way we design, operate and interact with the built environment. What was once considered a futuristic idea is now a practical, scalable solution addressing some of the most pressing challenges of our time: climate change; volatile energy markets; and the need for infrastructure that can withstand environmental and economic disruptions.

Smart buildings go beyond merely conserving energy. By combining realtime data, automation and AI, they can “think” to optimise performance. In doing so, they fundamentally redefine how energy is sourced, distributed and consumed. In the race towards net zero, smart buildings are not just part of the solution-they are helping to lead the way. www.salixfinance.co.uk

Doing

Voltalis helps businesses reduce electricity use without lifting a finger.

Double-digit savings with no disruption and zero capex.

Our smart Demand Response technology works silently in the background, connecting millions of devices all communicating in real time to optimise electricity usage and achieve real energy and carbon savings that matter for your business and globally.

Voltalis allows you to monitor, control and optimise your electric heating and cooling systems, increasing comfort so you can focus on what matters most.

Why choose Voltalis?

On average 15% electricity savings & significant carbon reduction No need to replace or modify appliances

Track energy use and control your heating with the free Voltalis for Business app

Zero costs, no subscription. Free today, free forever

Seamless installation by us, your team or our trusted partners

Smart monitoring, control and optimisation of your assets

CONTROL. VISIBILITY. INTELLIGENCE: CONTROLSENSOR

Prefect Controls

Ltd has unveiled its latest innovation in energy management and building control technology: the allnew ControlSensor.

Building on the remarkable success of the previous control unit, which regularly returns a 50% reduction in heating loads, ControlSensor takes energy-saving capabilities to new levels, introducing features that redefine the relationship between building operators and room occupants.

ControlSensor retains all the proven energy-saving functionalities that has made the Irus ecosystem the market leader. Intelligent temperature control, adaptive occupancy sensing, and optimised heating management continue to ensure maximum visibility across a wide range of multi-occupancy environments. Finely tuning energy use to actual occupancy patterns, the ControlSensor helps organisations significantly reduce their carbon footprint while cutting utility costs.

However, what sets the ControlSensor apart is its revolutionary direct-to-room communication capability. For the first time bespoke messages can be sent directly to individual rooms. Whether it’s a reminder about upcoming maintenance, fire drill notifications, or important operational updates, these messages ensure that occupants remain informed. This feature not only enhances safety and compliance but also streamlines building operations, reducing downtime and minimising disruption.

ControlSensor also introduces an intelligent behavioural change system through automated Nudges, designed to gently encourage occupants to make more sustainable choices in their daily routines. The system may suggest shorter shower durations, recommend

seasonal clothing to lower heating demand, highlight energy used this week compared with last, or prompt users to adjust room temperatures to more energy-efficient levels. By influencing occupant behaviour in a non-intrusive and supportive manner, Nudges help foster a culture of sustainability, leading to even greater energy savings.

The integration of Nudges is powered by sophisticated algorithms that analyse real-time usage patterns and environmental data. The system’s suggestions are based on specific room conditions, occupancy levels, and historical use patterns, ensuring each message is relevant, timely, and actionable. Over time, these microinterventions lead to substantial changes in behaviour, significantly increasing energy-savings potential.

The Irus ecosystem is suitable for both new and retrofit projects, ensuring facilities of all types can benefit from its advanced features without costly overhauls. Space heating, water heating, leak detection, kitchen safety, utility metering, and water wastage are all monitored and controlled from the central dedicated portal.

ControlSensor’s user-friendly interface and intuitive controls make it accessible for both facility managers and end-users, ensuring widespread adoption and ease of use.

Prefect Controls Ltd has long been committed to pushing the boundaries of energy management technology, and the ControlSensor exemplifies this

dedication. By combining advanced energy-saving features with direct communication and behavioural change tools, the Irus ecosystem represents a holistic approach to building efficiency. It empowers building operators not only to manage energy consumption more effectively, but also to engage occupants in the sustainability journey.

Data fed back to the portal is analysed by bespoke software tools.

‘Optimiser’ identifies faults, high consumption, unoccupied rooms or nonstandard profile use, then recommends actions to optimise efficiency.

‘Investigator’ provides the means to drill down from site to individual rooms in search of issues such as supplementary heaters, kitchen safety alarms, system communication failures etc. ‘Reporter’ gives operators the ability to make sense of their building services performance by generating reports on a variety of datapoints from block to floor, to flat, to room level – over adjustable time frames.

In a world increasingly focused on environmental responsibility and operational efficiency, the ControlSensor arrives as a timely and transformative solution to meet ambitious sustainability goals and reduce operational costs. With its blend of proven technology and innovative features ControlSensor is an essential component in the future of intelligent building management by providing control, visibility and intelligence.

https://prefectcontrols.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 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.

Scan the QR code to find out more

SMARTER, CLEANER, LEANER:

Why utility strategy is at a turning point –and how MEUC helps end-users stay ahead

The rapid evolution within the energy and water sectors continues unabated, introducing ongoing complexity.

Utility professionals are now required to balance carbon reduction commitments, cost optimisation, dynamic regulatory environments, and resilience requirements – a challenge that defines the current landscape and necessitates advanced strategies and heightened collaboration.

BEYOND TRADITIONAL MODELS

Fixed-rate agreements or simple volume contracts are no longer sufficient. Leading organisations are adopting flexible procurement models, incorporating long-term risk management techniques, and responding proactively to shifting market dynamics.

Effective transformation hinges on both strategic approaches and organisational mindset. Across the MEUC Community, energy teams have demonstrated significant results by leveraging digital solutions, conducting comprehensive data analysis, and aligning utility initiatives with broader business objectives. These individuals are transitioning into leadership roles, shaping cost, carbon, and consumption strategies that impact their entire organisations.

TURNING AMBITION INTO ACTION

While aspirations around decarbonisation and efficiency are

Robin Hale, Chief Executive, MEUC

widespread, successfully implementing these goals across complex estate portfolios remains a substantial task. Achieving progress requires coordination among engineers, executives, various departments, and board-level stakeholders.

Adoption of onsite generation, power purchase agreements (PPAs), flexibility measures, water efficiency improvements, and emerging technologies shows considerable promise. However, real success often relies on incremental progress and cultural adaptation, rather than high-profile declarations. Peerto-peer dialogue, whether during informal discussions or structured sessions, proves instrumental in sharing valuable insights.

PRECISION RATHER THAN REACTIVE MEASURES

Faced with rising costs, some may consider broad reductions. Yet, sustainable benefits emerge from targeted initiatives: advanced metering, demand-side flexibility, intelligent systems, and behavioural analytics. Such measures facilitate long-term savings without compromising future competitiveness.

Policy trends support this approach. The UK’s Clean Growth Strategy highlights the integral role of energy and water management in enhancing business resilience and reputation. Regulatory frameworks such as ESOS have heightened expectations and scrutiny, incentivising continual improvement.

RESILIENT STRATEGIES BY DESIGN

With risks spanning contractual, market, environmental, policy, and climate domains, resilience must be intentionally embedded into operational frameworks. Foundational capabilities such as flexible contracting, market literacy, and policy awareness, are essential, as is investment in personnel development and industry networks.

THE IMPORTANCE OF ENGAGEMENT

In the digital era, personal interactions remain critically important. Events such as MEUC’s Buying and Using Utilities Live foster open dialogue and peer learning, adding value beyond formal programming.“

A DELIBERATE STRATEGIC PAUSE

MEUC meetings are designed to encourage reflection, recalibration, and knowledge-sharing – not to deliver instant solutions. As expectations rise and margins narrow, such opportunities are becoming increasingly vital.

BUU Live events provide a focused and practical forum for professionals overseeing utility procurement and management. The event aims to refine strategies, enhance resilience, and equip attendees for future challenges. For further information about MEUC’s Buying and Using Utilities Live – 15 October 2025, Coventry, visit meucnetwork.co.uk/events

“What we get from the MEUC events is essentially ‘horizon scanning’. Day-to-day we are in the trenches, dealing with billing and metering issues, figuring out new and novel ways of generating supply. What we lose sight of and find difficult is knowing what is going on in the wider world. We come along to the MEUC events to find out about changes in government policy, what’s going on in the industry and market changes. We often find we didn’t know about something that is coming along – what impact is that going to have on us? It enables us to start adjusting our strategy and planning for things like regional pricing. How is that going to impact us? What can we do to influence and affect it? How do we need to adapt and develop our plans around it? It’s that forward-looking, wider industry view, that we find really valuable.” David Gray – Energy Supply Manager, Bristol City Council.

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.

Fast-track connections with a single point of contact Why choose us?

Tailored gas solutions for complex CHP and industrial sites

Full compliance with all regulations and safety standards Proven track record

FROM INSIGHT TO IMPACT: OPTIMUM FOR PUBLIC SECTOR

ORGANISATIONS AND SCHOOLS

Across the UK, schools and public sector organisations face growing pressure: tight budgets, ageing infrastructure, and ambitious carbon reduction targets. At the same time, expectations are rising – from demand for healthier learning spaces to government mandates for net-zero progress.

Optimum Connect & Control is built for this moment. It’s a marketleading platform that unifies energy and asset management, giving you real-time insights, seamless connectivity, and intelligent automation. The result? Lower energy costs, healthier environments, and a clear path to sustainability.

TURNING COMPLEXITY INTO CLARITY

No two estates are the same. While schools may rely on ageing heating systems, public buildings juggle multiple BMS platforms and disconnected technologies leading to poor visibility, inefficiencies, and rising costs.

Optimum solves this by connecting to existing infrastructure using open protocols, bringing all your data into one secure, cloud-based platform. With minimal disruption, you get clear, intuitive dashboards can reveal everything from energy use and air quality to occupancy trends. For facilities teams, it means fewer assumptions and more insight. For leadership, it means data-backed decisions. And for staff, students, and the public, it means healthier, more comfortable spaces.

VALUE WHERE IT MATTERS MOST

Optimums edge lies in turning data into tangible outcomes such as:

• Cost Savings: Optimum’s automated alerts catch energy-wasting issues early, like heating systems running overnight or HVAC units overworking due to faulty sensors. In one example use case, a single faulty sensor was costing our customer over £26,000 annually in wasted energy. Early detection before routine maintenance checks saved 120,000 kWh delivering instant returns.

• Improved Comfort & Health: Indoor air quality matters, especially in schools. Optimum dashboards let facilities teams monitor CO2 levels and air circulation in real time, helping reduce virus transmission and maintain a healthy learning environment.

• Operational Efficiency: Remote

access means maintenance teams can diagnose and resolve issues without unnecessary site visits. This saves time, reduces downtime, and keeps buildings running smoothly.

REAL RESULTS, REAL SAVINGS

A UK leisure company managing 63 sites faced challenges familiar to many public sector estates: outdated building management systems, rising energy costs, and pressure to meet sustainability goals. By integrating E.ON Optimum with their BMS upgrade, they unlocked significant savings and efficiency and the ongoing savings delivered from the project are 6x the ongoing cost of the Optimum and associated Energy Management services.

THE OPTIMUM ADVANTAGE

Public organisations and schools often face the “triple squeeze”: tightening budgets, greater accountability, and the urgent push toward net-zero. Optimum addresses each of these challenges head-on:

• Budget Relief: Typical savings far outweigh the cost of investment in the Optimum products, as has been reported by some of our customers. By adopting Optimum, public-sector bodies and educational institutions can unlock long term efficiencies, reduce energy costs and reinvest the savings into other services.

• Net-Zero Alignment: By tracking and optimising energy use across buildings, Optimum enables measurable progress toward government sustainability commitments.

• Transparency & Reporting: From boardrooms to classrooms, Optimum provides easy-to-understand dashboards and reports that prove impact, justify funding, and build community trust.

• Future-Proofing: Its manufactureragnostic, open protocol approach ensures compatibility with emerging technologies, meaning today’s investment won’t be tomorrow’s limitation.

A group of schools in the UK is partnering with Optimum to improve air quality and energy management across their estate. Using Optimum’s customisable dashboards, facilities would be able to track CO2 levels in each classroom, compare performance week on week, and identify areas where air circulation is falling short of best practice.

A TRUSTED, SECURE PARTNER

Optimum is part of E.ON’s market-leading suite of digital energy solutions, already trusted by thousands of organisations. Independently verified by 3rd party Consultancies as a leader in reporting, monitoring, and controls, Optimum combines innovation with robust reliability. Data security is paramount. All information is encrypted in transit and at rest, hosted securely in European data centres and in accordance with strict security standards. For public sector organisations handling sensitive data, this provides peace of mind alongside performance.

TURNING INSIGHT INTO ACTION: YOUR NEXT STEP

In a world where every pound and every tonne of carbon matters, Optimum offers more than technology – it offers a pathway to smarter estates, healthier communities, and a greener tomorrow.

Optimum Connect & Control enables you to move beyond planned preventive maintenance, embracing data driven decisions for a smarter more sustainable future.

Are you ready to take control of your energy use?

Visit our website –https://www.eonenergy.com/business/ building-and-energy-management/ optimum

TURNING SUNLIGHT INTO REVENUE: HOW SMART SOLAR ENERGY CAN POWER PROFIT AND SUSTAINABILITY

Investing in renewable energy solutions is becoming a key pillar for businesses to evolve towards more sustainable practices and thrive in the future, but it cannot come at the expense of economic priorities.

In the UK, which ranks third among European countries with the highest electricity prices for businesses, companies must make greater efforts to reduce their operating costs. For many, especially in logistics and manufacturing, energy stability is also a top priority to increase operational resilience and prevent unexpected disruptions.

By embracing innovative solar energy solutions, businesses can meet their sustainability goals and gain a competitive edge, paving the way for long-term success:

BUSINESSES CAN CUT COSTS WITH ON-SITE RENEWABLES

One of the most effective strategies for reducing emissions and costs is generating cleaner energy directly on-site. By installing solar PV systems, companies can cut their electricity bills by up to 50%, while also reducing carbon emissions and their reliance on the grid. This leaves businesses less exposed to volatile electricity prices driven by market conditions.

When it comes to solar solutions, mid-sized company leaders are seeking reliable, cost-effective, and sustainable options to achieve their energy transition goals. Above all, they expect simplicity and tangible support, particularly in financial terms. Today, several financing options are available to facilitate this transition: direct investment (CAPEX), self-financed with bank loans, or external financing solutions such as leasing

Why lock away precious capital in an upfront solar investment when you can make your energy work for you from day one? With financing options via Power Purchase Agreements, there’s no heavy CAPEX burden. Instead, you spread the cost over time, protect your cash flow, and keep investing in what matters most to your business. Many companies that choose financing see

COMMENT

Emmanuel Trivin, MD Continental Europe at DCC & Chief Development Officer at Wewise Europe

their energy bills drop by 20 to 40% immediately – all without tying up capital or taking on unnecessary risk.

Financing through PPAs also means peace of mind: predictable payments, performance guaranteed by your provider, and the flexibility to scale your energy solution as your business grows.

The result is simple: faster returns, stronger sustainability credentials, and a real competitive edge. Solar becomes not just an energy solution, but a growth strategy.

Power Purchase Agreements (PPAs), whether implemented on-site or off-site, also provide businesses with a stable and predictable electricity price for 15 years or more. This longterm financial certainty is invaluable for effective budgeting and planning.

BOOST OPERATIONAL RESILIENCE WITH ON-SITE SMART ENERGY SOLUTIONS

Operational resilience means keeping your business running smoothly, even during peak demand. By connecting solar PV, storage, EV chargers, and an intelligent energy management software, you optimise energy use, cut costs, and gain independence. These technologies enable businesses to shift energy use to times when renewable energy is abundant and prices are lower, maximising cost efficiency. By optimising on-site solar generation and storage with an energy management software, buildings can achieve up to 95% energy self-sufficiency. Smart energy management platforms are crucial in this context, enabling businesses to shift energy loads to optimal times allowing core business processes to continue uninterrupted,

even during times of high energy demand. This capability is especially beneficial for companies aiming to expand, as it allows them to bypass the often lengthy process of upgrading grid infrastructure by using battery storage and on-site generation technologies.

DRIVE BUSINESS GROWTH WITH RENEWABLE ENERGY SOLUTIONS

Beyond simply reducing emissions, companies should explore the potential of solar energy combined with battery storage as a novel business model to generate additional revenue. The number of businesses selling excess energy in the UK is significant and growing, and projections suggest that this sector will continue to expand at a remarkable rate. With estimates indicating it could reach a valuation of £41 billion by the year 2030. By providing flexibility services to the national grid, businesses have the opportunity to monetise their capabilities and play a crucial role in maintaining grid stability. This value leads to enhanced returns on cleaner energy investments, making these initiatives beneficial from both an environmental and financial perspective. Taking a look at the numbers and many benefits, it becomes clear that adopting solar energy and a storage solution is simply a smart strategy for businesses looking to balance profitability with sustainability. By implementing intelligent energy management software alongside solar and storage solutions, and by leveraging zero-upfront capital PPAs, businesses can cut costs and gain a competitive edge in an increasingly eco-conscious world. https://www.wewise.com/

ARE SYNTHETIC GASSES THE REPLACEMENT FOR FOSSIL FUELS?

SRinnai UK’s Operations Director Chris Goggin explains what synthetic gasses are being developed and produced as a possible replacement to natural gas. Further information of production methods will be considered when evaluating the practical and technical feasibility of introducing synthetic gasses into UK and international energy infrastructure.

ince the 1970s when North Sea gas fields were located, the UK had, until recently, become reliant on fossil fuels. To distribute gas into domiciles and commercial premises 176,000 miles of pipeline infrastructure has been installed across the UK. This subterranean energy distribution network provides 40% of total energy consumption in the form of natural gas. Eighty-five percent of UK buildings use natural gas for property heating and hot water. Natural gas is still the prominent domestic and commercial power option.

In terms of societal behaviour and infrastructure the UK is well prepared for any move away from natural gas towards an alternative gaseous fuel that fulfils operational and ecological requirements. What synthetic and ulterior gasses could replace fossil fuels?

Work that identifies potential future gasses has revealed a number of candidates capable of UK infrastructure compatibility. A low carbon gas that can be accepted by present pipelines and behave in a similar, if not identical, manner to fossil fuels is the ideal replacement.

Amongst the list of potential replacements are e-methane and biomethane. E-methane is the abbreviated name given to synthetic methane or renewable methane, a gas which is created by extracting captured carbon dioxide and then blended with green hydrogen, itself produced via renewable energy. Green hydrogen electricity is converted into a storable low carbon gas – e-methane.

Biomethane is produced in a separate process – methane is captured from natural biological waste and forms during a natural process called ‘anaerobic digestion.’ In the absence of oxygen, microorganisms will begin to break down matter yielding a gas – methane. Once impurities are removed the methane gas becomes upgraded and biomethane is created.

Both biomethane and e-methane are capable of identical operating behaviour when compared to fossil fuels and can therefore be placed into existing infrastructure. Biomethane and e-methane can immediately fulfil the role of fossil fuels without any fracture towards appliance operating efficiency, commercial activity, or societal cohesion.

Synthetic natural gas (SNG) is an umbrella term for a variety of gasses that behave and perform very similarly to natural gas. SNG can be produced either using biomass or renewable power. Any gas that is generated via biomass or renewable energy is referred to as Biogas, e-gas, and syngas.

If a gas is created using waste such as manure, the gasification process of production is known as biochemical SNG production. If the process of gas manufacturing involves hydrogen that is renewably produced, then that (SNG) gas derives from a production concept named Power-to-Gas or Power-to-X. These ingredients and production approaches birth end-product e-gas/syngas.

Syngas is potentially interchangeable with any appliance that has previously accepted natural gas. Liquified or compressed Syngas can also be potentially transported through any functioning gas grid for usage or export and can be stored in the exact same environment as natural gas for identical durations of time.

Raw materials required for the creation of syngas arrive in the form of either fossil fuels or bio-waste. These materials are used to create a feedstock which is then inserted into a gasifier in either dry or slurry form. Once inside a gasifier that is low on oxygen the feedstock reacts with steam at a high pressure and temperature. This process creates syngas that is comprised of carbon monoxide, hydrogen and lesser amounts of methane and carbon dioxide.

Although UK public and political confidence in hydrogen requires upholstering, many global economies feel more optimistic in adopting domestic and commercial hydrogen usage. Swedish industrial decarbonising company Stegra has now secured funding of close to €6.5 billion to construct a large-scale green steel plant in Northern Sweden. The new installation will use green hydrogen when manufacturing end-product steel.

Additionally, the UK government very recently has announced that £500 million of funding will be provided towards new hydrogen infrastructure projects. This funding will stimulate regional hydrogen usage in transport, as well as storage networks that link hydrogen manufacturers, industrial end-users, and power stations.

Once the UK likely eradicates fossil fuels from the domestic energy mix a

substitute gas will have to be introduced to provide domestic and commercial premises with heat as well as hot water in areas that are economically, practically and technically difficult to electrify.

Practical decision making would prefer a decarbonising substitute gas that can fit seamlessly into the UK gas grid without additional cost. All gasses in this article fit within this remit. The task is to identify one outstanding candidate that is accepted by all energy market fronts – customers, environmental lobbies, and politics.

Rinnai will continue to offer information on potential energies that the UK could adopt soon. Rinnai believes balanced coverage on legislative detail that affects customer fuel options and costs can positively influence UK customer purchasing decision making.

SMARTER ENERGY MONITORING: FROM DATA COLLECTION TO DECARBONISATION

Energy consumption remains one of the most significant operational costs and carbon drivers for organisations across the commercial and industrial sectors. Yet, despite growing pressures to reduce emissions and operate more sustainably, many businesses still rely on outdated, retrospective methods to track their energy use. As energy prices fluctuate and net-zero deadlines loom, the role of energy monitoring is being redefined, not as a passive accounting exercise, but as an essential, proactive component of effective energy management.

Historically, energy monitoring was limited to meter readings or monthly utility statements. These offered a general overview but provided little insight into when, where, or why energy was being consumed. The lack of granularity made it nearly impossible to identify specific inefficiencies or verify the impact of energysaving initiatives. In many cases, action could only be taken after a problem had already become embedded in operational routines.

In contrast, modern energy monitoring solutions allow facilities and energy managers to observe energy usage in real time. With access to live data streams, they can identify inefficiencies as they occur, measure the immediate impact of behavioural or system changes, and build a clearer understanding of how energy is used across different systems and zones. This ability to see the full picture marks a huge shift in how buildings are managed.

The move toward real-time energy monitoring reflects broader shifts in the way organisations approach data. Energy is no longer treated as a static commodity to be purchased and reviewed after the fact. It is increasingly viewed as a dynamic, measurable resource that can be optimised and controlled. This perspective requires tools that go beyond simple consumption readings. It demands systems that can integrate with wider building platforms, support predictive analytics, and respond to changing conditions automatically.

Implementing such systems has traditionally been a complex and costly process, especially in older buildings or across large estates. Retrofitting wired energy meters often involved disruptive installations, long lead times, and significant financial outlay. However, recent advances in wireless sensor technology have removed

many of these barriers. Today, sensors can be installed with minimal disruption and no need to shut down equipment. These devices can clamp around existing electrical cables or connect to pulse outputs from existing meters, providing a simple yet powerful way to collect detailed usage data.

Wireless energy monitoring also supports scalability. Where once it might have been feasible to monitor only main incomers, organisations can now affordably track energy use across sub-circuits, departments, or even individual pieces of equipment. This level of granularity is essential for modern energy management. Without it, it is difficult to separate base load from variable load, or to distinguish operational consumption from avoidable waste.

The effectiveness of any energy monitoring solution, however, depends not just on how data is captured, but how it is used. Increasingly, organisations are demanding openness and interoperability in their systems. Energy data locked within proprietary platforms has limited value. By contrast, data that can be easily integrated into existing building management systems or cloud-based analytics platforms opens the door to deeper insight and greater flexibility.

This emphasis on open systems has influenced the direction of technology providers in the sector like Pressac Communications, a UK-based manufacturer of wireless sensor technologies, who offer a notable example. Their energy monitoring devices are designed to publish real-time data using open protocols. This allows organisations to route data directly into the systems they already use, avoiding the need for multiple dashboards or closed ecosystems.

The benefits of this integrated approach are not purely technical. In a typical multitenant office building, for example, real-

time sub-metering can reveal precisely which areas or systems are contributing to excessive energy use. This not only allows facilities teams to target interventions more effectively, but also provides the evidence required for fair cost allocation and tenant engagement. Similarly, in industrial settings, monitoring specific machinery or production lines can expose abnormal load patterns allowing teams to carry out preventative maintenance before costly breakdowns occur.

Beyond operational efficiency, real-time monitoring plays an increasingly vital role in sustainability strategy. With regulatory schemes such as SECR and ESOS requiring accurate, verifiable data, organisations need systems they can trust. High-resolution data also supports corporate ESG reporting, allowing businesses to demonstrate transparency and track progress toward decarbonisation goals. As digital tools like digital twins and AI-driven analytics gain traction, the demand for quality energy data is only expected to increase.

It is important to remember that energy monitoring is not a one-off project. It is a continuous process, one that must evolve alongside the buildings and systems it supports. As occupancy patterns shift, new technologies are adopted, and climate-related pressures intensify, the energy profile of a facility will inevitably change. Ongoing monitoring ensures that organisations remain aware of these shifts and are able to respond accordingly.

As the built environment confronts the twin challenges of rising energy costs and climate responsibility, smarter energy monitoring is no longer a luxury or a future ambition. It is a critical capability that will shape how buildings are managed, how sustainability is delivered, and how operational resilience is secured in the years ahead. www.pressac.com

The NEWEST addition to the Chauvin Arnoux PEL series!

The PEL113 three-phase power and energy logger is ideal for electrical diagnostics and energy audits. Identify supply issues, log demand, and reduce consumption by improving energy e iciency.

• Record all voltage, current, power and energy values

• Measure maximum demand, load balance and PF

• Get a breakdown of energy losses and individual harmonics

• Log for a few seconds to a few months

ENERGY BILLS SET TO RISE IN OCTOBER – SAVE BIG WITH THIS TIP

This winter, millions of households in the UK will see their gas and electricity bills rise by around 2% after Ofgem announced the latest energy price cap from October 2025. Even a small increase in charges can add extra strain to monthly budgets. While we can’t control the price rises, we can control how much energy we waste. The key to lowering bills is recognising where energy slips through the cracks and stopping it. In this article, Julian Grant, General Manager at Chauvin Arnoux UK, shares how the right power and energy logging solution can help professionals spot hidden energy waste, cut down on costs, and make sure every unit of energy counts.

KEEPING TRACK OF ENERGY USE PAYS OFF

Monitoring how power and energy are used in a premises can uncover problems that often go unnoticed. These issues can drive up energy bills, reduce environmental performance, and even lead to more frequent equipment breakdowns and costly repairs.

Whether you’re fixing a fault or simply looking to make your power systems run more efficiently, a power and energy logger like the PEL113 can be a game-changer. As even short-term monitoring provides clear insights, supports routine maintenance and helps prevent unexpected breakdowns.

HOW CAN THE CHAUVIN ARNOUX PEL113 HELP SAVE MORE £££?

The PEL113 is a modern, three-phase power and energy logger designed to make tracking electricity use simple and effective. Lightweight and easy to handle, it can be powered by batteries or mains and works automatically without the need for constant supervision.

The PEL113 is quick and simple to use. You can install it on a distribution panel and remove it just as easily – all without shutting down the mains.

Once it’s up and running, it records thousands of readings to give you a clear view of how energy is being used. You can set your preferences and decide how it collects data too – be it detailed snapshots for close monitoring or long-term averages for a bigger picture.

With its on-screen display and remote access capabilities, the

PEL113 helps you quickly identify energy waste, reduce costs, and ensure your systems run smoothly.

TRACK ENERGY WITH A PEL

Power and energy loggers (PELs) collect a wide range of electrical data, including current, voltage, power, and energy. They can also measure important factors like phase angle cos φ, tan Φ, power factor, total harmonic distortion (THD), and harmonics.

The most advanced loggers use separate sensors for each type of measurement. These smart devices automatically recognise the sensors, set the correct ratios, and adjust measurement settings, making it easier than ever to get accurate, detailed insights.

MONITOR MULTIPLE CHANNELS AT ONCE

Multi-channel data loggers can record information from several inputs at the same time. For example, a six or eight-channel logger might track three or four voltage inputs and three or four current inputs

simultaneously – making it ideal for monitoring three-phase power systems.

These loggers don’t just collect data, they can also perform calculations, such as measuring power and energy usage.

MEASURE TO MANAGE ENERGY COSTS

Many energy managers rely on monthly utility bills to understand overall energy use and demand. While this can highlight trends or potential issues, it rarely shows where, when, or why energy spikes occur. Combining PELs with general energy review practices fills that gap – providing precise, time-stamped data on energy use. This allows technicians and facility managers to proactively identify waste and make targeted improvements.

ACCESS THE ELECTRICAL DATA REMOTELY

Using the free PEL Transfer Software, you can access energy data remotely from your office or anywhere with an internet or wireless connection. This lets you monitor multiple points within a facility or even across several

locations – all without the cost and time involved to collect the data manually.

TURN DATA INTO ACTIONABLE ENERGY DECISIONS

One of the hardest parts of optimising energy usage is convincing facility/building managers to invest on new equipment or changes without proof that it will make a difference. Power and energy logging solutions from Chauvin Arnoux solve this problem by showing clear, easy-tounderstand data on where energy is being used and wasted. This makes it much easier to justify upgrades or when it’s time to invest in new energy-efficient equipment.

Moreover, by comparing energy use before and after changes, you can clearly see the savings and show how effective your energy-saving strategies really are, especially as electricity costs rise.

To make the PEL singlephase or three-phase logger part of your contractor’s kit, visit: https://cauk.tv/pel-series/

SMART Energy Meters for Landlords

SMART Energy Meters for

Landlords

The smart way to meter, measure and manage energy resources for Landlords and residents alike.

The smart way to meter, measure and manage energy resources for Councils and residents alike.

What’s the simplest way for you to oﬀer residents a simple but secure opportunity to pay for their gas or electric? The smartest solution undoubtedly comes from Energy Controls; making it easy for customers to pay for their energy while they’re relaxing at home

And it couldn’t be more straightforward or more rewarding.

Pay-As-You-Go

Whether you’re looking to streamline your energy overheads with automated meter readings or get paid upfront using the latest prepayment system, Energy Controls has the products and expertise to help. They have a fully hosted, web-based software solution linked to market-leading Payment Platform that enables property managers to oﬀer tenants a simple 'Pay-As-You-Go' solution for making energy payments.

Whether you’re looking to streamline your energy overheads with automated meter readings or get paid upfront using the latest prepayment system, Energy Controls has the products and expertise to help. They have a fully hosted, web-based software solution linked to a market-leading Payment Platform that enables property managers to oﬀer tenants a simple 'Pay-As-You-Go' solution for making energy payments.

Energy Controls’ award-winning SMART meters are ideal for all types of sub-metering applications, ranging from blocks of ﬂats to travellers sites and social Housing.

Energy Controls’ award-winning SMART meters are ideal for all types of sub-metering applications, ranging from blocks of ﬂats to travellers sites and social Housing

Business Booster

Energy Controls has been trading for 34 years and they are now the leading Supplier of prepayment metering systems to the Landlord sector.

Energy Controls have been trading for 33 years and are now the leading Supplier of prepayment metering systems to the Landlord sector.

They have invested heavily in an IT infrastructure that delivers a secure, reliable and robust online payment solution which in turn gives Landlords and residents alike immediate access to their energy usage data around the clock.

They have invested heavily in an IT infrastructure that delivers a secure, reliable and robust online payment solution which in turn gives the Council and residents alike immediate access to their energy usage data around the clock.

Energy top-up payments can be made online anytime from anywhere using the FREE App

Energy top-up payments can be made online anytime from anywhere using the FREE App.

“The prepayment solution that our SMART Meters oﬀer provides an instant boost to our customers cash ﬂow”

Chris Smith, Managing

“The prepayment opportunity that our SMART Meters oﬀer our customers provides an instant boost to cash ﬂow” Chris Smith, Managing Director.

Director.

• Get paid upfront for your energy supplies

• Tenants can Top-up online via our FREE app

• Tenants can Top-up online or via our FREE app

• Cashless money transfers directly into your bank

• Emergency Credit feature

• Remote disconnect/recon of power supplies

• Remote disconnect/ reconnect of power supplies

• Remote disconnect/reconnect of power supplies

Accurate Data

The Energy Controls’ SMART meter portal enables Property Managers and tenants to monitor their energy usage trends, on the go from anywhere and at anytime.

The Energy Controls’ SMART meter portal is a user-friendly platform for Property Managers and tenants to monitor their energy usage trends, on the go from anywhere and at anytime

The Energy Controls’ SMART meter portal enables Property Managers and tenants to monitor their energy usage trends, on the go from anywhere and at anytime.

Our online payment platform integrates seamlessly with PayPoint to allow users to top up their meters securely, online or using our FREE App.

Our online payment platform integrates seamlessly with PayPoint to allow users to top up their meters securely, online or using our FREE App. A variety of energy usage and financial reports are generated automatically and are sent directly to customers on a regular basis.

Our online payment platform integrates seamlessly with PayPoint to allow users to top up their meters securely using our FREE App.

A variety of energy usage and financial reports are generated automatically and are sent directly to customers on a regular basis.

A variety of energy usage and financial reports are generated automatically and emailed directly to customers on a regular basis.

Happy Customers

But you don’t have to take Chris’s word for it. Simply read what the Gypsy and Traveller Team Manager for West Sussex County Council had to say:

The Manager at Southend YMCA went even further:

The Manager at Southend YMCA went even further: e or nect

“Working with Energy Controls, we have introduced a new cashless PayPoint system for the SMART meters at our Traveller Sites. This system has been a huge improvement for the Council because not only does this mean our staﬀ no longer have to handle cash, the PayPoint service gives our residents greater ﬂexibility and independence. would not hesitate in recommending Energy Controls and their products and services.”

The Manager at Southend YMCA went even further:

"Energy Controls supply 21st century thinking and a great web based service, with lots of useful functions, allowing you to see how much energy has been consumed on an individual basis. We highly recommend Energy Controls to any business. The whole experience of having the latest metering system installed was too good to be true and very straightforward.”

“Energy Controls supply 21st century metering products and a great web based service, with lots of useful functions, allowing you to see how much energy has been consumed on an individual basis. We highly recommend Energy Controls to any business. The whole experience of having the latest metering system installed was almost too good to be true and very straightforward.”

Energy Controls is happy and well equipped to oﬀer a complete service from free survey to installation, together with full training and after-sales support.

Why not email us at:sales@energycontrols.co.uk to see if you qualify for a ‘Fit for FREE’ supply and installation service. It could be the happiest move you ever make!

THE ROLE OF DATA & INFORMATION IN CURRENT GLOBAL ENERGY

Chris Goggin analyses the role and key distinctions between data and information in the current UK and international energy market. The influence of data driven DHW and heating system improvements will be explored, as will the subject of misinformation that is spread across mainstream and alternative media platforms.

Heating appliance and hot water delivery manufacturers are reliant on two abstract inflections of the same tool of communication – data and information. Both are vital to the UK heating and hot water delivery industry. Without consistent flows of data and information, appliance performance stalls, and UK customers become less aware of cost-effective energies and products.

The first distinction this article will make is the difference between data and information. Data can be used to record performance and judge measurements. Without reliable data and scientifically ratified metrics manufacturing precise technology that provides commercial premises with heating and hot water appliances becomes an impossible task.

Recorded data enables system design upgrading for heating and DHW appliances. Primarily collected data assists system refinement which leads to increases in system efficiency and product life cycle, both of which mean lower customer costs.

Collected data also helps to bring forward better designed systems that do not require as much maintenance as previously designed models. Again, customer costs will be positively affected.

Information regarding energy and appliances can be thought of in two distinct ways: the first way views information in a one-dimensional context. Information is a route for

customers to learn about various products, their benefits and what energies best suit said appliance.

Energy policy information is far more malleable in practise. Legislative information can be restructured into a form that compliments a political agenda and subsequently released across multiple friendly media outlets.

This is the main difference between data and information – data

is a result of a logical sequence of scientific methodology that provides confirmed results. Data is vital towards upgrading system performance and component optimisation. Without data, system designers, contractors, specifiers, and customers all lose control of project objectives.

Data ensures areas such as hot water consumption can precisely highlight peak usage times and patterns. Correct system

sizing will dictate energy consumption and efficiency whilst preventing over and under sizing a DHW system.

Other areas that data collection for DHW systems enhance include seasonal variations, building type and size, component optimisation and energy efficiency. All elements of data recording and reading create a foundation from which improvements and observations can be made meaning the appropriate system can be selected for a specific property.

Information concerning energy is presented and received by a mass audience in a unique way when compared to data. Energy is a focal point in geopolitics and is therefore prone to being used as a tool of ambition by large economies and sometimes as a weapon. The 1973 Iranian oil embargo being one example.

As energy can be weaponised in a state context, media outlets that are sympathetic to energies that benefit the favoured political movement. This is demonstrated across the western world in one simple distinction: proponents of right-wing political ideals prefer fossil fuels, whilst those on the left favour clean alternatives such as renewables.

Placement of Information on energy policy in selected media can therefore be viewed as partisan and strategic. Where the use of data is concerned with producing tighter operational capabilities, energy policy information is usually aimed towards maintaining or diminishing political support.

Information relating to energy usage has never been so politicised or weaponised. Putin instigated a spike in fossil fuel payments when the invasion of Ukraine began and now Trump’s “drill baby drill,” comment has been almost adopted into American Conservative identity.

Trump’s verbal slogan arrives at a time where public confidence in alternative and renewable energy appears to be declining. Renewable

energy has been blamed for the recent blackouts in France, Spain, and Portugal. It is claimed that renewable solar and wind energy fails to connect to the transmission grid in the same way as fossil fuels. There has not been a confirmed cause of this event released by the respective governments.

Consistent UK media and political opposition to renewables that insists that NetZero aims should be reduced due to costs is based on partisan beliefs – not science. Any political organisation that is reliant on attracting votes through energy policy that promises low costs and uninhabited access to energy will be used despite contradictory scientific advice and information.

data recording. NetZero objectives are resultant from scientific observations.

Gathered data has outlined that global temperatures are rising and are a result of manufactured activities. Rising temperatures create fertile conditions for drought, cyclones, and rising water levels. All events are potentially catastrophic for life on planet Earth. This knowledge has been attained via various disciplines of

Designers, specifiers, contractors, and installers should consider using manufacturers of heating and hot water systems that aim to provide unbiased energy policy information and reliable data that demonstrate product benefits in costs and performance.

SMART METER ACCURACY: THE FOUNDATION FOR A RELIABLE, LOW-CARBON GRID

Smart meters are central to digitalised energy systems, enabling accurate billing, realtime pricing, and data-driven decarbonisation strategies. Utilities, regulators, and customers rely on them to operate for up to 15 to 20 years, providing uninterrupted data that supports energy efficiency targets, carbon reduction plans, and energy consumption insights.

Yet, despite their importance, millions of smart meters globally are falling short due to persistent data accuracy issues. Unlike outright device failures, these inaccuracies often go unnoticed initially, quietly eroding operational efficiency, customer trust, and ESG reporting accuracy. For energy companies, maintaining data integrity is critical to enabling effective grid management, protecting revenue streams, and ensuring regulatory compliance.

THE SILENT RISKS OF DATA INACCURACIES

Data inaccuracies in smart meters are often harder to detect than full device failures. These silent issues build over time, with missed logs and delayed data transmissions accumulating until they cause billing disputes, regulatory breaches, and operational inefficiencies.

Without accurate data, consumption analytics and forecasting models become skewed. Customers may receive incorrect bills, undermining trust and increasing service complaints, while utilities face avoidable administrative costs and reputational damage. For manufacturers, field errors linked to data issues translate into increased warranty claims and higher support burdens, damaging market confidence in smart meter rollouts.

WHAT CAUSES DATA DEGRADATION IN SMART METERS?

Today’s smart meters operate under high data load conditions, continuously recording and transmitting usage data while managing event logs and firmware updates. This high-frequency operation puts significant stress on the internal

Umair Ejaz, Senior Product Marketing Manager, Tuxera

NAND flash memory used in meters, which has a finite number of write/ erase cycles. To manage this wear and ensure long-term reliability, smart meters typically rely on two embedded software components working in tandem: the flash controller and the file system. The flash controller handles how data is physically written to and managed on the memory, managing operations like wear leveling and bad block management. The file system organizes how data is structured, accessed, and maintained at the application level. Together, they form a coordinated software stack that improves data integrity, reduces memory stress, and significantly extends the operational life of the flash storage.

With every new data collection or update, the older obsolete data has to be cleared, otherwise the memory starts to wear out quickly. Without software optimised for flash management, these operations accelerate memory wear, leading to errors and silent data corruption. In many cases, standard file systems fail to manage these cycles efficiently, making meters prone to data degradation before their intended operational lifespan ends.

Additionally, the realities of energy distribution networks mean that power outages and voltage fluctuations are inevitable. These conditions can interrupt write processes, leading to corrupted or incomplete data. If smart meters lack the resilience to detect and recover from these events, inaccuracies can become embedded in utility datasets, undermining all subsequent analysis and reporting.

THE FINANCIAL AND REGULATORY CONSEQUENCES OF INACCURACY

Data inaccuracies have direct financial implications for energy companies. Incomplete or incorrect data can lead to revenue losses from inaccurate billing and refund

requirements, while increasing customer service workloads due to disputes and complaints. Over time, these issues erode cash flow and increase the cost to serve, impacting operational budgets and efficiency metrics.

Regulatory compliance is also at risk. National and regional authorities impose strict data accuracy and uptime requirements for smart meters, with noncompliance triggering audits, fines, and, in some cases, enforced replacement programmes. Replacing meters can cost £250–£350 per unit, quickly escalating into significant unplanned expenditure when large fleets are affected.

Data accuracy is also essential for ESG reporting, underpinning carbon accounting and energy efficiency metrics. Inaccurate data threatens the credibility of sustainability claims, damaging investor confidence and affecting utilities’ ability to secure green financing for decarbonisation projects.

From a field operations perspective, software-related data failures are often mistaken for hardware faults, leading to unnecessary technician callouts and premature device replacements. This further drives up operational costs while reducing the efficiency of existing infrastructure investments.

BUILDING RESILIENCE THROUGH SOFTWARELEVEL ACCURACY

While many smart meters include hardware features to provide some resilience during outages, such as backup batteries, the most impactful and cost-efficient improvements come from optimising the software layer.

Flash-aware, transactional copyon-write file systems can ensure 100% data integrity even under high-frequency logging and repeated power interruptions, maintaining reliable operation over decades. These systems are designed to handle

over 15,000 hard power-offs without data loss, enabling rapid system recovery and minimising downtime.

By managing memory wear efficiently, advanced file systems reduce the risk of silent data corruption without requiring additional flash capacity or larger devices. This is crucial for resource-constrained environments typical of smart meters, where space, power, and cost constraints limit hardware expansion. In many cases, software-led optimisation can deliver 5–10% savings per meter, providing substantial cost reductions across large-scale deployments while ensuring longevity and accuracy.

PROTECTING OPERATIONS, REVENUE, AND DECARBONISATION GOALS

Smart meter data integrity is foundational for energy companies seeking to improve operational efficiency, maintain revenue stability, and advance decarbonisation targets. Beyond billing accuracy and minimising replacement costs, reliable data plays a crucial role in managing energy distribution. Consumption data collected from

meters is used not only to balance supply and demand in real time but also to inform future forecasts, shaping long-term planning for infrastructure investment and sustainability strategies. As this data is shared across the energy ecosystem, from utilities to regulators and grid operators, it becomes central to the coordination of energy flow, policy compliance, and readiness for emerging energy challenges.

Every inaccurate data point increases the risk of billing errors, noncompliance, and reputational damage while undermining the effectiveness of demand-side management and grid optimisation efforts. For energy companies, ensuring smart meter accuracy means reducing operational costs, avoiding unnecessary replacements, and maintaining the integrity of ESG reporting frameworks.

By focusing on embedded software resilience rather than costly hardware upgrades, utilities and manufacturers can address the root causes of data inaccuracies and extend the operational life of meters. This approach protects revenue, meets regulatory expectations,

and aligns smart metering infrastructure with broader energy transition goals.

CLOSING THE DATA GAP FOR A SMARTER ENERGY FUTURE

As energy systems become increasingly data-driven, the ability to maintain accurate, uninterrupted data from smart meters will be a key differentiator for utilities. Flashoptimised, resilient file systems are critical tools in closing the silent data gap, safeguarding business value, and enabling data-driven decision-making across the grid.

Smart meter accuracy is about building a smarter, more resilient, and efficient energy system. By addressing accuracy at the software level, energy utilities can support a low-carbon transition while ensuring operational reliability, financial stability, and customer trust.

In the drive to modernise energy infrastructure, accuracy is the foundation for success, and it starts with how data is managed and protected within every smart meter. https://www.tuxera.com/

SMARTER ENERGY, SMOOTHER OPERATIONS: HOW DEMAND FLEXIBILITY IS POWERING CHANGE IN HOSPITALITY

Across the UK, public sector and commercial estate managers face the same challenge: how to reduce energy consumption and emissions without compromising operational comfort or blowing through already stretched budgets.

This dilemma is particularly acute in high-consumption sectors like hospitality, healthcare, and education, where buildings must remain consistently functional and welcoming, regardless of energy market volatility. At the same time, these same sectors are under increasing pressure to deliver on ambitious carbon-reduction targets.

And while plenty of solutions exist, from deep retrofits to heat network transitions, these are often capital and/or resource-intensive, and not every organisation has the time or funds to pursue them.

That’s where Voltalis comes in.

We offer a solution that’s simple, completely free to deploy and operate, and designed to start delivering value immediately – without lifting a finger.

SMARTER ENERGY USE, WITHOUT THE DISRUPTION

Voltalis provides intelligent, demandside flexibility. In short: we help buildings use less electricity when it matters most, during peak times, without impacting comfort, control or user experience.

We do this by installing smart thermostats, at no cost, to electric heating, cooling or hot water systems. When the grid is under pressure or wholesale prices spike, our platform can briefly reduce power consumption in a way that’s imperceptible to occupants. Those small changes, aggregated dynamically across thousands of

sites, create a meaningful reduction in electricity demand, provide a valuable balancing service for the grid and produce on average 15% energy savings and significant carbon emission reductions to asset owners

THIS ISN’T JUST DEMAND REDUCTION, IT’S SMARTER DEMAND

Unlike traditional efficiency measures that require behavioural change from users, equipment upgrades or investment, Voltalis is designed to be hands-off and maintenance-free. Once installed, the technology works automatically in the background, optimising usage in real time and adapting to local conditions.

That means estate teams don’t need to train staff, change BMS protocols, or adjust comfort settings. There’s no need to compromise on experience to achieve sustainability. The system operates completely within pre-set comfort boundaries, ensuring rooms stay warm, cool, or ventilated as they should –just using energy more intelligently.

PROVEN IN PRACTICE: THE UNIVERSITY OF WALES TRINITY SAINT DAVID

One of our most successful UK pilots took place at the University of Wales Trinity Saint David.

In autumn 2024, over 100 student accommodation rooms were equipped with Voltalis Demand Response technology. Each device took just 15 minutes to install – no rewiring, no capital cost, and no disruption to students or staff.

Six months later, the results were clear:

• 13% reduction in electricity consumption across two student accommodation blocks

Significant Scope 2 emission reductions, contributing to the university’s decarbonisation strategy

Over 5,000 grid support events delivered in under six months

• Zero complaints from occupants

Even in heritage buildings dating back over 200 years, the technology worked seamlessly, optimising performance without impacting comfort.

“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. Everything worked quietly and seamlessly in the background.”

— Daniel Priddy, Head of Sustainability

And this is just the beginning. Voltalis have since started deploying their technology across more universities and are discussions with several other universities and large estate operators across the UK to replicate and scale these results.

A SOLUTION FOR ESTATES UNDER PRESSURE

Voltalis is already managing over 1.5 million devices across 250,000 homes and businesses across the European Union and the UK.

Typical benefits include:

• Up to 15% savings on electric heating and cooling usage

• Verified reductions in Scope 2 emissions

• No upfront cost or ongoing maintenance

• Seamless operation with no behavioural change or change in supplier

For large estates managing multiple buildings such as schools, care homes, council offices, or hotel chains, the impact multiplies quickly. Flexibility becomes not just a savings opportunity, but a strategic asset.

A SMARTER SYSTEM NEEDS SMARTER DEMAND

As the UK grid moves towards more renewable energy, the challenge isn’t just about producing clean power – it’s about using it more intelligently. Wind

and solar are intermittent by nature. That means the grid needs help during peak demand or supply dips, and flexibility becomes a frontline solution. By shedding load intelligently, Voltalis helps avoid the need for fossil-fuel peaking plants, reduces the risk of blackouts, and increases energy security by supporting a more resilient national energy system.

For the public sector, it’s also a way to deliver leadership on net zero, showing how innovation, not just investment, can drive progress.

COME SEE FOR YOURSELF

We’ll be showcasing our solution at the Hospitality Tech Expo 2025, taking place on 30th September and 1st October at ExCeL London. Come and visit us at stand HT328 to see how Voltalis can support your energy strategy, simplify operations, and protect your bottom line.

Because when buildings can think, and flex, you don’t just save energy, you build the future.

All together better.

To learn more, visit voltalis.co.uk

FLEX APPEAL: RETHINKING HOW WE KEEP THE LIGHTS ON

Britain’s energy system is undergoing its most profound transformation since the Industrial Revolution. The drive to eliminate fossil fuels is essential for Net Zero, but it also brings new challenges. Chief among them is how we keep the electricity system balanced. As the role of coal and gas diminishes, the answer lies in developing new forms of ‘flexibility’ – and this concept is reshaping the way we power our lives.

Policymakers, regulators, and the system operator are all grappling with how best to deliver on flexibility. But what exactly is flexibility, and why has it become one of the most important concepts in energy policy?

FLEXIBILITY MATTERS MORE THAN YOU THINK

In simple terms, flexibility is about ensuring the lights stay on when renewable generation does not line up with demand. Our recent report Enabling Distributed Flexibility for Net Zero defines it as “balancing energy demand and supply across all time and spatial scales, keeping within the physical constraints of the system.”

Put another way, at every moment of every day, at any location, the amount of electricity going into the grid must equal the amount being taken out, while accounting for storage, transmission, and conversion losses. Unlike gas networks, which can cope with hours of imbalance, electricity systems have no such tolerance. Even a small mismatch risks a system failure. This is why flexibility is not an optional extra: it is essential to a functioning, decarbonised energy system.

There are four broad ways of delivering flexibility:

• Supply-side flexibility: adjusting generation up or down. In the past, this often meant increasing or reducing output from coal or gas. In a low-carbon system, it may involve hydrogen-fired turbines. SSE Thermal and Siemens energy are collaborating on “Mission H2 Power” to develop gas turbines that can run entirely on hydrogen.

• Demand-side flexibility: shifting or reducing electricity use. A familiar example is charging electric vehicles (EVs) when supply is plentiful, often at lower prices.

Daniel Murrant, Practice Manager - Networks and Energy Storage, at Energy Systems Catapult

Companies such as Ohme are developing smart chargers that automate this process for drivers.

• Energy storage: adding or removing energy from storage technologies such as batteries, pumped hydro, or thermal storage. Much more of this will be needed in future, with companies like RheEnergise developing innovative storage approaches.

• Interconnection: importing or exporting electricity through crossborder interconnectors. These links allow energy to flow where it is most needed. National Grid Ventures is exploring hybrid interconnectors that also connect offshore wind farms directly into the system.

WHY THE OLD FLEX PLAYBOOK NO LONGER WORKS

For decades, flexibility was almost entirely about supply. If demand rose, more coal or gas was burned. Stockpiles of fuel provided security, and costs were relatively predictable. That model is no longer viable. Renewables cannot be controlled in the same way, and volatile fossil fuel prices have exposed the risks of over-reliance on gas. Instead, the system must diversify. Demand-side flexibility, storage, and interconnection must all play a much larger role, alongside new forms of clean supply-side flexibility. At the same time, electricity demand is rising sharply as cars, heating, and industrial processes switch away from fossil fuels. This combination of increasing demand and more variable supply makes flexibility more important than ever.

The transition is not only technical but behavioural. Consumers will increasingly interact with the energy system in new ways, whether through EV charging, smart appliances, or home energy storage. Real-time management of demand at scale will be just as critical as innovation in generation.

INNOVATING TO NET ZERO 2026

At Energy Systems Catapult, we are exploring how flexibility can be delivered through our Innovating to Net Zero 2026 programme (ITNZ 2026). Using our whole-system models such as ESME and ESME Flex, alongside market, consumer, and digital insights, we are analysing how different forms of flexibility can close the gaps between supply and demand – what we call “peak gaps.”

These peak gaps will define the shape of the future energy system. Our work is assessing not only the technical solutions available, but also the enabling conditions required to unlock them – from market signals and regulation to consumer engagement. We are also examining progress to date, including the impact of the Clean Power 2030 target, and what more is needed to secure a resilient and affordable low-carbon system.

A central part of ITNZ 2026 is engaging with innovators. From technology developers to service providers, their insights are essential to our analysis. By highlighting barriers and exploring how they can be overcome, we aim to help create the conditions for innovation to thrive. This collaboration is critical if we are to build a flexible system that is fit for Net Zero.

WHAT’S NEXT FOR FLEX?

The journey to Net Zero requires more than replacing fossil fuels with renewables. It requires a transformation in how we balance the system, manage demand, and design markets that reward flexibility. Britain has the expertise and the innovators to rise to this challenge. The task now is to create the right environment for them to succeed – so that the electricity system of the future is clean, reliable, resilient, and affordable.

For more information, visit: https://es.catapult.org.uk/

WHY FLEXIBILITY TRADING IS THE FUTURE FOR SOLAR ENERGY

Iván Castro, Operations Director at Levelise

The solar sector in the UK has witnessed remarkable progress over the past decade - costs have plummeted, adoption has surged, and technology has advanced. But as we look ahead, it’s clear that simply generating clean energy isn’t enough. The next frontier is flexibility.

Recent policy announcements, particularly the Future Homes Standard, reinforce this direction and place a strong emphasis on low-carbon heating and onsite renewable energy - including solar PV. But the key evolution isn’t just in how homes produce energy; it’s in how they use and trade it.

With solar adoption continuing to grow, the challenge lies in managing when and where energy is used. A sunny afternoon may generate surplus electricity, but excess energy often goes to waste or is undervalued. Flexibility unlocks the true value of solar by aligning supply with demand more intelligently.

The UK’s smart meter rollout, combined with advances in battery storage and grid digitalisation, is enabling households and businesses to become active energy participants - shifting consumption, storing excess generation, or trading it in real-time markets. The result? A more resilient, efficient, and lower-cost energy system.

This is where independent aggregators such as Levelise come in. Levelise allows domestic customers to trade flexibility services in energy markets. It remains the only operator trading solely with home assets at scale. Their proven trading success has translated directly into financial results for households, having paid over £2 million to its domestic customers with batteries to date, with 94% exceeding their projected flexibility payments since 2019. On average, each customer has earned over £154 per year simply by allowing Levelise to optimise their battery. This continues to prove that residential flexibility isn’t just technically

possible – it’s commercially powerful.

Achieving the government’s net zero goals will also require a power system that is not only clean but also smart and capable of adapting to fluctuations in supply and demand. One example of this adaptability is directly curtailing solar generation – intentionally reducing output to balance the grid or prevent oversupply without requiring any co-located battery. Independent aggregators – such as Levelise – enable this by coordinating distributed energy resources and making real-time decisions to maximise value for asset owners while supporting grid stability. The benefits stretch far and wide, including:

• Supporting the local grid

Local grid operators (DSOs) need help managing supply and demand - especially in areas with congestion or limited capacity. By reducing solar output on request, independent aggregators can unlock payments through DSO flexibility tenders, helping homes support their communities while being rewarded for it.

• Beating the tariff trap. Some smart export tariffs, like Octopus Agile Outgoing, drop to zero when energy prices go negative. That means no payment for exported solar, no

matter how green it is. But with flexibility trading, that same exported energy can be pulled into the market and earn money – even when the standard tariff pays nothing. This shift from tariff-based earnings to market-based trading is the future. It’s more responsive, more profitable, and more sustainable.

• Smarter solar and storage. For homes with solar and battery storage, curtailment plays an even bigger role. It can help avoid overcharging, free up space for high-value grid services like Dynamic Containment, and ensure systems are ready to respond when prices peak.

A major industry update –Modification P444 – is currently in the pipeline. Once approved, it will make sure households are fairly compensated when their solar is curtailed as part of a flexibility service. This would remove the final barrier to wide-scale adoption and make flexibility trading even more attractive. The bottom line is flexibility trading helps solar homes do more with less – less export, but more value. It supports the grid, boosts household earnings, and helps the UK build a smarter, greener energy system. https://www.levelise.com/

SHOULD I REDUCE MY BOILER PRESSURE?

It’s a question we hear more and more: “Can I reduce the pressure of my steam boiler?”

The short answer is, “Yes, you can” – but the real question is: should you? While reducing boiler pressure might seem like a simple way to lower energy consumption and CO2 emissions, the reality is more complex. Let’s explore the implications, dispel some myths, and highlight better strategies for optimising your steam system, all with the support of Spirax Sarco’s Advance Consulting service.

WHY CONSIDER REDUCING BOILER PRESSURE?

The primary drivers behind this question often include:

• Lower gas consumption

• Reduced carbon emissions

• Compliance with safety or insurance requirements

On the surface, it seems logical: if you’re generating steam at a high pressure (e.g., 10 BarG) but only need 2 BarG at the point of use, why not generate steam at 5 BarG instead? You’d burn less fuel, right? Not necessarily. The energy content of lower-pressure steam is also reduced. This means your boiler might need to produce a greater mass of steam to meet process demands, potentially offsetting any perceived savings.

WHY REDUCING BOILER PRESSURE MAY CAUSE MORE PROBLEMS

Here’s why reducing your boiler pressure might not be the best move:

1. Reduced Resilience

At higher pressures, boiler water contains more sensible heat, acting as an energy buffer during periods of high demand. Lowering the pressure reduces this stored energy, potentially leading to:

• Steam starvation during peak demands.

• Increased boiler cycling, reducing efficiency and longevity.

2. Infrastructure Mismatch

Your current steam system is likely designed for the original pressure and flow rate. Reducing pressure can cause:

• Higher steam velocities: Steam will need to move faster

to deliver the same mass, increasing wear and tear.

• Erosion: Faster-moving steam carries moisture, rust, and scale, damaging valves, meters, and pipework.

• Water hammer: High-speed condensate increases noise, vibration, and risks of pipe failure.

3. Safety and Control Issues

• Safety valves are sized for a specific pressure/volume relationship. Lowering pressure may render them ineffective or non-compliant.

• Control systems like pressurereducing valves and flowmeters become misaligned with the new pressure, reducing accuracy and reliability.

4. Poor Steam Quality

Lower-pressure steam has larger bubbles, leading to:

• Carryover of water into the steam system, reducing steam energy and efficiency.

• Wetter steam, increasing maintenance costs from erosion and corrosion.

• Foaming, caused by turbulence at the water surface, especially with poor water chemistry.

5. Steam Trap Inefficiencies

Steam traps are designed for a specific condensate load and pressure drop. A reduction in boiler pressure can lead to:

• Undersized traps: Unable to manage increased condensate loads, causing inefficiencies.

• The need for re-trapping the system, adding time and costs.

A BETTER APPROACH: OPTIMISE, DON’T COMPROMISE

If your goal is to reduce fuel consumption and CO2 emissions, reducing boiler pressure isn’t your only – or best –option. Greater savings, with far less disruption, can often be found elsewhere in the steam and condensate loop. Here’s how Spirax Sarco’s Advance Consulting service can help:

1. OPTIMISE YOUR SYSTEM

• Conduct detailed energy audits and surveys to identify inefficiencies.

Use digital tools to track energy usage and pinpoint areas for improvement.

IMPROVE MAINTENANCE AND MONITORING

Implement smart monitoring systems to proactively manage performance.

• Regularly inspect steam traps, control valves, and pipework to maintain efficiency.

3. UPGRADE TECHNOLOGY

• Invest in technologies like heat recovery systems, which can deliver substantial savings without compromising system performance.

• Consider TargetZero solutions, such as high-temperature heat pumps, to reduce emissions while maintaining output.

THE SPIRAX SARCO PHILOSOPHY: KEEP IT DESIGNED FOR PURPOSE

Boiler pressure should generally remain at its original design conditions. Changes can disrupt your system, creating more problems than they solve. Instead, focus on holistic system optimisation, targeting areas with greater potential for savings.

By partnering with Spirax Sarco and leveraging our Advance Consulting expertise, you can achieve meaningful reductions in fuel consumption and emissions – without risking the integrity of your system.

READY TO EXPLORE YOUR OPTIONS?

Reducing your boiler pressure may seem like a quick win, but with Spirax Sarco, you can uncover smarter, more effective ways to optimise your steam system. Contact us today to learn how our tailored solutions can help you achieve your energy efficiency and sustainability goals – without compromise.

Let’s optimise your steam system for a better future. www.spiraxsarco.com

JOIN THE NET ZERO JOURNEY AT EMEX!

For more than a decade, emex has championed the vision of a net zero future, with a mission to lead, inform, and support UK industry on its journey toward achieving net zero. The outstanding free-to-attend conference programme split over four theatres brings a huge draw of 3,500+ visitors. It is not only a great opportunity for industry experts to engage with their peers, but be recognised as a thoughtleader in the net zero space. Not only a show, yet a driver for growth, where the industry comes together to network, share ideas and tackle today’s challenges.

As the sector grows, we welcome an even bigger audience into the 2025 show including everyone involved with smart and connected buildings, as well as our loyal visitors from the energy, sustainability and facilities management space. emex will pair thousands of key decisionmakers with a vibrant array of exhibitors showcasing the latest technology and solutions-focused innovations to drive UK businesses towards a net zero future.

WHAT TO EXPECT AT EMEX?

One of the biggest draws for visitors to the show is the firstclass free programme of content on offer split across two days. The outstanding content takes place over four theatres, where visitors can take full advantage of solutionsfocused learning from 130+ industryleading speakers in panel discussions, presentations and case studies.

What’s more, reflecting the show’s expansion into the world of connected buildings, we’re delighted to take a new step into the emex journey and announce the launch of Smart Buildings & Built Environment. We’re also welcoming back the everpopular theatres covering: Energy & Carbon Management Strategy, Energy Future & Flexible Networks and Sustainability & Net Zero.

Our fifth content space at emex – in partnership with Estates Gazette, hosts a variety of workshops, roundtables and the allimportant networking opportunities that continue to engage visitors at the show. Plus, handson training and much more. Net zero experts are provided with the opportunity to deliver their expertise providing engaging and informative content to our diverse audience to continue or start their net zero journey.

Also, new for 2025 is an exclusive partnership with Cornwall Insight who are the preeminent provider of research, analysis, consulting and training to

ExCeL, London on 19 & 20 November 2025

businesses and stakeholders in the UK and Irish energy markets. They’ll be helping visitors upskill on changes in the UK energy markets by delivering training sessions on relevant topics. This is a unique opportunity to talk to the experts and futureproof knowledge on this rapidly changing area. emex will explore the latest innovative solutions to common challenges, such as tackling rising energy costs, navigating regulations and standards and future-proofing your business.

What’s more, this year’s sessions will offer practical insights into the future of energy management, from the impact of smart technologies and AI, to decarbonising high-impact and growing industries such as data centres.

Top leaders from well-known UK and global organisations will address repositioning the business case for embedding sustainability into their organisations, keeping on track for net zero goals, and how their climate resilient plans can be adapted for your organisation.

Closing the conference, a completely new feature for 2025, a 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.

ARE YOU READY TO BE PART OF THE JOURNEY FOR 2025?

emex is the perfect opportunity for you to join the conversation and hear all about the evolving market.

We welcome a considerable array of visitors from SMEs to multinationals, across

the wide spectrum of both the private and public sectors. Whether you have a limited budget or there are millions to invest in sustainability solutions for you and your team – this show provides something for everyone who walks through the doors.

WHAT ALSO MAKES EMEX AN UNMISSABLE EVENT?

Over 100+ exhibitors are given the space to place their brand and business in front of thousands of decision-making professionals from across the energy management and smart buildings sector. From the most innovative products, exhibitors are given the window to win new business – maintain their competitive edge and stay at the forefront of the industry. Registration is completely FREE and gives you access to all of these features and much more.

Visit our website to explore further, and we look forward to welcoming you in November as we open the doors on emex 2025.

https://forms.reg.buzz/emex-2025/ emex-2025-registration-emag

CARBON NEUTRAL AND NET ZERO: WHY THE DIFFERENCE MATTERS

As climate pledges increase, many organisations are committing to cutting emissions. However, terms like carbon neutral and net zero are often used as if they mean the same thing – and they don’t.

Both approaches aim to reduce environmental impact, but they take different routes to get there. Understanding the distinction is key for businesses that want to avoid greenwashing and build credible sustainability strategies.

This guide explains what each term means, how they differ, and what to consider when setting your company’s climate targets.

WHAT DOES CARBON NEUTRAL MEAN?

Being carbon neutral means balancing the amount of carbon dioxide (CO2) emitted with an equivalent amount that is removed or offset. A company, product, or event can call itself carbon neutral if the emissions it generates are matched by investments in activities that counteract those emissions – not by eliminating them altogether.

Most organisations start by calculating their emissions and then purchasing offsets such as renewable energy credits or tree planting projects. While this compensates for emissions, it doesn’t necessarily drive reductions at the source.

Carbon neutral claims typically cover Scope 1 and Scope 2 emissions (direct emissions and purchased energy). Some companies include parts of Scope 3, but this is less common.

For many businesses, carbon neutrality is an entry point into climate action. Still, the concept has faced criticism when companies rely heavily on offsets without making meaningful internal reductions.

WHAT DOES NET ZERO MEAN?

Net zero goes beyond carbon neutrality. It requires cutting greenhouse gas emissions across the entire value chain and only using offsets for residual emissions that cannot be eliminated.

To reach net zero, reductions must cover Scopes 1, 2, and 3 –everything from on-site fuel use and purchased electricity to supply

chain activities, product use, and business travel. Because Scope 3 often makes up the largest share, net zero requires systemic changes, not just surface-level adjustments.

Offsets are still part of the equation but play a limited role. Current net zero standards require that they be high-quality, permanent removals such as carbon capture or verified nature-based solutions.

The Science Based Targets initiative (SBTi) states that companies must cut 90–95% of emissions before relying on offsets for the rest. Net zero, therefore, represents a long-term, science-driven commitment to measurable reductions.

CARBON NEUTRAL VS NET ZERO: CHOOSING THE RIGHT PATH

Although often used interchangeably, carbon neutral and net zero represent different levels of ambition. Carbon neutrality focuses on balancing emissions, usually through offsets. It’s suitable for organisations looking for quick wins, but it doesn’t always require significant internal changes.

Net zero, on the other hand, is the recognised benchmark for credible climate leadership. It demands deep reductions across operations and supply chains, with only minimal use of verified offsets. More companies are aligning with net zero targets to meet rising expectations from regulators, investors, and customers.

WHAT ABOUT CLIMATE POSITIVE?

Some organisations are aiming beyond net zero by becoming climate

positive (or carbon negative). This means removing more carbon from the atmosphere than is emitted.

To achieve this, businesses must first minimise their own footprint, then invest in projects that actively remove additional carbon – such as reforestation, soil carbon storage, or direct air capture technologies.

While still relatively rare, climate positive strategies are gaining attention from companies that want to lead the way and demonstrate impact that goes beyond compliance.

TAKING THE FIRST STEP

Whether your organisation chooses carbon neutrality, net zero, or climate positive, the most important thing is to begin.

The UK’s Net Zero Strategy sets a target of cutting emissions by 2050. Businesses that align with this roadmap not only support climate goals but also strengthen their resilience against future regulation.

The first step is understanding your footprint. Measuring Scope 1, 2, and 3 emissions gives you the data needed to act. From there, set measurable targets, implement a reduction plan, and track progress.

You don’t need to tackle everything at once, but you do need reliable data and the right tools. Solutions like ClearVUE.Business help organisations monitor emissions, identify energy waste, and build credible strategies for long-term climate action.

https://clearvue.business/

TARGETED RETROFIT: USING DATA TO DELIVER ON NET ZERO

Tom Garrigan, Executive Director, BSRIA

With 85% of the buildings that will still be in use by 2050 already built, decarbonising the UK’s public and commercial estate represents one of the most pressing and complex challenges facing facilities managers today. Our building stock is among the oldest in Europe, and the regulatory landscape continues to evolve at pace. This means there is no universal solution. The only effective approach is one rooted in accurate assessment, where decisions are informed by robust evidence, not assumptions.

By starting with a detailed understanding of how each building performs, how it is used, and how occupants experience it, facilities managers can ensure that retrofit measures deliver maximum benefit. This approach makes it possible to achieve decarbonisation that is evidence-based, cost-effective and resilient, while also meeting compliance requirements and safeguarding long-term performance.

INVESTIGATION BEFORE INTERVENTION

Successful decarbonisation begins with investigation, not intervention. This means fully evaluating existing conditions before committing resources or planning works. A thorough performance assessment may draw on a range of non-invasive techniques, from thermal imaging and airtightness testing to acoustic analysis and postoccupancy evaluation. When these findings are considered together, they provide a holistic view of building performance, revealing inefficiencies, inconsistencies or vulnerabilities that are not immediately visible.

The value of this process is twofold. It allows targeted investment, avoiding unnecessary works or disruptive upgrades, and it ensures that improvements are tailored to the actual usage patterns of a building, rather than being based on broad generalisations. This approach also gives occupants a voice in shaping the outcome. Direct input from users - whether through surveys, interviews or informal conversations - can uncover comfort issues, behavioural patterns and operational constraints that purely technical assessments may overlook. Engaging those who use the building every day encourages a shared sense of responsibility in achieving, and maintaining, operational sustainability goals.

We saw the benefits of this approach first-hand during the recent retrofit of BSRIA

House, our own headquarters. Rather than implementing a list of generic upgrades, we began with rapid, costeffective fabric assessments that established a clear performance baseline. This enabled us to identify and prioritise the interventions that would deliver the greatest value. The results were significant: building airtightness improved by 35 per cent, Scope 1 and 2 emissions reduced by 28 per cent, and occupant satisfaction rose by 14 per cent, all while the building remained fully operational.

ACHIEVING COMPLIANCE

Today’s facilities managers are being asked to balance the demands of dayto-day operations, occupant comfort and long-term asset performance with an increasingly stringent set of legislative requirements. The Building Safety Act, the Future Homes and Buildings Standards, changes to Energy Performance Certificates and associated reporting obligations are reshaping the compliance landscape. While it is easy to see these developments as additional burdens, they present an opportunity do better. Adopting a measurement-led approach to decarbonisation naturally supports compliance by providing detailed performance outcomes and documentation that reduce risk and liability in the long term.

Central to this is a fabricfirst mindset. However advanced an energy system may be, it will only deliver its full potential if the building envelope itself is efficient. Improving insulation, tackling thermal bridges and eliminating air leakage will reduce demand at source, ensuring that any energy generated is used as effectively as possible. These improvements not only ensure a building is more energy efficient, but they also pave the way for the successful integration of lowcarbon technologies, whether now or in the future.

LONG-TERM PERFORMANCE

Independent, thirdparty verification forms the bedrock of a credible decarbonisation strategy. Objective testing ensures that the initial performance of a building is thoroughly understood and provides a benchmark against which improvements can be measured.

Construction professionals who rely on independent measurement, rather than selfcertification, report markedly higher confidence in their results. In fact, our research shows that almost half of the architects and engineers surveyed

expressed greater trust in their outcomes when physical measurements had been taken by an impartial party. This underlines the fact that robust data is important for accountability and transparency in both the initial phase of a retrofit project and for continuous improvement.

This data only becomes more valuable over time: retrofit should not be viewed as a oneoff event. Ongoing performance management is essential if gains are to be protected. Advances in cloud-based inuse monitoring now allow facilities teams to track performance in real time, identifying inefficiencies before they become costly issues, helping to ensure that buildings will continue to operate as intended. This capability also provides continual verification of retrofit outcomes, proving that savings and improvements are maintained in practice, not just on paper.

A DRIVER FOR POSITIVE CHANGE

The idea that pursuing Net Zero requires compromise on comfort, quality or operational efficiency is a misconception. When retrofits are based on diagnostics, not assumptions, they can enhance multiple aspects of a building at the same time by improving efficiency, resilience, user wellbeing and long-term value. For facilities managers, particularly in the public sector, this turns compliance from a procedural obligation into an opportunity to create better environments for users, and the planet.

Decarbonisation will not be easy, but when approached with accurate measurement, occupant engagement and a commitment to continuous improvement, it becomes a powerful driver for positive change. However, the time to act is now. www.bsria.com/uk/

Photo by Simon Ray on

Unsplash

SUPPORTING ELECTRIFICATION WITH BATTERY ENERGY STORAGE

Resilient power is vital as our energy infrastructure becomes increasingly electrified. With the Clean Power 2030 Action Plan, and looking to 2050, low-carbon energy is the most significant means to achieving Net Zero. Alexandra Kuncewicz, Business Development Manager from Powerstar offers insight into how battery energy storage can help facilitate electrification for businesses.

ELECTRIFICATION AND GRID CAPACITY

The Seventh Carbon Budget highlights electrification as the single most important means of reaching emissions reduction targets – 60% by 20401. Businesses are committed to meeting their sustainability goals, but electrification is heavily dependent on the uptake of green technologies, such as EVs, heating, and powering industrial processes, generally. Where this leads to grid capacity issues, it can impact on sustainability strategies, with a recent survey of businesses finding 44% of UK and Irish companies’ decarbonisation plans negatively impacted by supplier and infrastructure limitations2

Investing in electric transport and manufacturing processes, extending the use of renewables – these can significantly improve sustainability, but hamper plans if increased electrification takes you over your Agreed Supply Capacity, requiring additional grid connections. By this January, NESO acknowledged there were 1,700 applications covering 2023/2024, “more projects already in the queue than are required for the energy system in 2030 or even 2050.”3 As well as slowing down sustainability

1 The Seventh Carbon Budget Report, p10

2 https://www.centricabusinesssolutions. com/navigating-energy-labyrinth-lp?utm_ source=cbs_email&utm_medium=email&utm_ campaign=0001447+-+UKI_2025_Resilience_ FullReport&utm_id=0001447+-+UKI_2025_ Resilience_FullReport

3 https://www.neso.energy/news/next-stepsgrid-connections-reform

strategies through grid connection bottlenecks, the financial implications can make them untenable for many organisations, given that the average cost for a new grid connection for a large business is estimated at £65,0004

Many companies are taking greater control – reviewing existing energy management assets, upgrading, or investing in technologies to support sustainability, security and costeffectiveness, and to circumvent the need for additional connections.

From a recent report, 43% of businesses surveyed have solar PV installed, with 28% trialling or planning to adopt solar, while 38% have

4 https://connections.nationalgrid.co.uk/ budget-estimate/

adopted battery storage with 33% trialling or planning to adopt battery storage within the next two years5

INVESTMENT IN ON-SITE BATTERY ENERGY STORAGE

Net Zero and the electrification of your energy management and assets is a journey. Investing in technologies that support this process incrementally can help lower emissions, while ensuring energy security to critical plant.

As on-site renewables become the norm, a BESS is a logical asset purchase to maximise investment in these renewables. The production of renewable energy is determined by

5 https://www.neso.energy/news/next-stepsgrid-connections-reform p.24

weather conditions, and generation may not coincide with the optimal time for usage. If not used when generated, this is wasted energy. A BESS allows for this energy to be stored, to be used when needed, or when most cost-efficient. For example, when grid energy is at peak price, a BESS allows for stored energy to be used, while you can revert to grid energy when prices are lower. Where businesses are switching fleets to EV, this can create charging problems – especially where fast-charging demands may push you over your Agreed Supply Capacity. In this instance, a BESS can facilitate fast-charging, using energy stored in the unit and avoiding the issue of overload on the grid: the BESS stores electricity as DC, which allows for faster charging and, as the chargers are connected to the battery directly, the BESS operates as a buffer.

Battery Energy Storage Systems (BESS), where it incorporates Uninterruptible Power Supply (UPS), can also help to ensure power resilience to critical on-site equipment. In the

event of disruption to grid supply, a modern BESS with UPS can respond in under 10 milliseconds, ensuring operations are protected against grid fluctuations. And modern BESS provides up to 95% lower losses than traditional UPS, offering added cost-savings and energy efficiencies, helping improve site sustainability.

BESS IN ACTION

A large, energy-intensive telecoms provider wanted to reduce energy consumption while ensuring their operations remained stable when switching to an electrified fleet. Powerstar recommended BESS to facilitate both requirements. The new system with a 100A 3-phase supply, specified for a heavily-constrained area, allows for rapid-charging of their fleet, with optimised voltage output, and supply resilience through the UPS. For another client, a large hospital facility, there was a critical requirement for uninterrupted

power. Here, a BESS with UPS has reduced the hospital’s carbon footprint by 190 tonnes of CO2e, generating £225k annual savings on energy costs.

WORKING TOWARDS ELECTRIFICATION AND CLEAN POWER

CP30 is on the horizon, but sustainable energy management must balance electrification alongside grid constraints. Taking control of your energy infrastructure, with incremental investment in sustainable assets such as BESS, can improve energy security and resilience, lower energy costs, and improve sustainability on the Net Zero journey.

To find out more about Powerstar’s energy management solutions, contact us: www.powerstar.com Email: alexandra.kuncewicz@powerstar.com Tel: 0114 257 6200

NOW RINNAI OFFERS EXTENDED WARRANTIES ON ALL CONTINUOUS FLOW HOT WATER HEATING UNITS – UP

TO 12 YEARS

Now available from Rinnai is a comprehensive range of continuous flow water heaters with market leading warranties that protect customers from additional costs on the appliances.

Rinnai commercial instantaneous water heaters have a 12-year extended warranty that protects an end-user from unlikely but unforeseen costs. All continuous flow units achieve this through complete design manufacture with vertical integration of all internal components – put simply all components are made by Rinnai, and this means that their effectiveness is optimised. The company aims to supply UK customers with practical, economic, and technical solutions for heating and hot water needs in any type of building.

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

HEATING

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.

The N series models are:

• N1600i giving 954 litres per hour

N1600e (external) also giving 954 litres per hour (at 50 degrees)

N1300i giving 775 litres per hour

• N1300e also giving 775 litres per hours of temperature controlled at 50 degrees.

The two 1600s have load profiles of XXL and are water efficiency class A rated, while the 1300s are load profile XL and are also water efficiency class A rated.

Other 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. Advanced burner controls within the N Series models ensure all appliances are well ahead of the NOx requirements set within ERP. The current level of permissible NOx set by ERP is 56 mg/Kwh. The Sensei N Series is third-party tested at 26 mg/Kwh making them one of the greenest gas-fired water heating appliances available. As the units do not incorporate storage their ‘green credentials’ are further recognised by BREEAM and score additional credits under the building regulations.

Rinnai also supports the installer and end-user with

• Full Technical Support

For further information on the Rinnai N Series simply visit www.rinnai-uk. co.uk/products/

System

Design Service

• Carbon Cost Comparison calculation

• CAPEX and OPEX reports on any given site.

Rinnai’s continuous flow heater systems are proven to be more energy efficient than conventional storage systems and are the experts’ preferred mode of hot water provision. Rinnai units easily cater for any size projects that demand high volumes of water at intermittent and any times of day.

THE FUTURE OF HEAT NETWORKS

The introduction of the new ‘Heat Networks Market Framework’ represents a watershed moment. It aims to transform heat networks from proven-butniche solutions into fully regulated utilities. Robin Abram, Associate Director, Heat, at Last Mile Asset Management, explains how they are primed to cut up to 17% of Britain's emissions from heating buildings.

BUILDING CONFIDENCE THROUGH HEAT NETWORK REGULATION

With the Government targeting 1.5 million new homes in the next five years, will regulation be a platform for growth, or will it slow the expansion of this low-carbon heating solution?

Establishing regulation is a vital step in building confidence throughout the value chain. Historically, housing

developers have often been left in less-than-ideal circumstances when it comes to their heat networks, often having to manage the asset themselves or outsource them to a provider.

The new regulations aim to remedy this situation by requiring all heat networks to be operated by a regulated heat network operator that is authorised by Ofgem. Ofgem will begin regulating the sector in January 2026.

The new regulations build on both the success of the Heat Trust standards and the Chartered Institution of Building Services Engineers' (CIBSE's) Code of Practice 1 (CP1). Recognised as strong voluntary standards, they will now form the basis of the Government’s regulatory approach.

By requiring authorised operators to operate heat networks, this removes the burden from developers to act as a utility provider and assures investors of the proper, ongoing operation of their assets. Heat networks have a major role to play in delivering low carbon heat and utility-level regulation solidifies their position as a future-proof asset that will serve as a long-term investment.

At Last Mile, we have always operated with the mindset of an already regulated heat network provider and believe standardisation will help improve consumer confidence. All of our heat networks are designed and built to CP1 standards, and we have signed all our heat networks up to the Heat Trust to meet the highest standards ahead of regulation.

REGULATION AS A FOUNDATION FOR HEAT NETWORK GROWTH

While forthcoming regulations under Ofgem's oversight promise to build market confidence with essential consumer protections and technical standards in the form of the Heat Network Technical Assurance Scheme (HNTAS), they must be carefully calibrated to avoid stifling innovation and hampering development.

As a regulated utility provider in water with over 25,000 satisfied customers, we recognise the benefits of regulation. Consumers, developers and investors all benefit from technical regulations and consumer protections. And as many of the proposed regulations and technical standards are based on successful existing gas and electricity network regulation models, we are keen to see the best parts of those models replicated to ensure confident growth in the sector. However, flexible, forward-looking regulation should be designed to allow the sector to move quickly, bolstering developers’ and consumers’ confidence, while supporting the transition to net zero. For heat networks to fulfil their promise and expand from today's modest 3% market share to a projected 20% by 2050, regulation must serve as the springboard for growth, rather than a barrier to progress.

SITE-BY-SITE AUTHORISATION COULD HINDER NEW NETWORKS

HNTAS, which is set to be piloted mid-way through 2025 and is currently expected to come into force in 2026, will require new and existing heat networks to be ‘certified’, i.e., authorised to supply heat to customers, on a siteby-site basis. The certification pathway comprises a series of gateways along the full heat network lifecycle of design, construction, completion and operations, that together ensure the network is more likely to meet operational

requirements. This process is intended to create a level playing field to hold the heat networks industry to account and ensure a high-quality efficient utility is delivered to the consumer. However, many consider such an approach to be overtly onerous, with significant potential to stifle the heat networks industry. It risks diluting the government’s intention to promote heat networks industry as a key component of decarbonising heat produced and consumed by our new and existing building stock.

This site-by-site authorisation process is also stricter than for other utilities like gas. Whereas equivalent gas legislation allows developers to be audited annually, heat network developers would be required to certify each individual site through several gate stages. This could create an unlevel playing field and risk slowing progress toward broader net-zero goals, especially as the government proposes to build 1.5 million new homes over the next five years. These additional authorisation ‘hoops’ could deter developers from adopting heat networks due to potential delays. While each heat network is unique in its size and layout, consistent principles around technology, network type (decentralised and centralised), and performance expectations could help balance oversight with progress.

CONSUMER PRICING

Under the new regulations, existing heat networks will need to meet enhanced standards. Given the history of some networks performing poorly –part of the reason regulations are being introduced following the Competition and Markets Authority report into heat networks – it’s assumed that some will find it difficult to meet the new standards. Nevertheless, consumers will benefit significantly as the regulations ensure standardised levels of performance.

Until the regulation consultations are finalised and take effect in January 2026, Last Mile is focused on supporting

the development of new low-carbon heat network that meet or exceed upcoming standards. By designing our networks to align with Heat Trust and CP1 standards, we aim to provide reliable, high-performance heat delivery. This also means that there should be little consumer-facing change that impacts the daily service or performance of the heat networks we’re building in lowcarbon housing developments across Great Britain. Consumers will have new protections and continue to benefit from the high level of performance our networks deliver nationwide.

Heat network pricing should be transparent and fair. With new regulations come opportunities for new tariffs and pricing structures. For example, fixedrate prices in ambient heat networks are simple, effective, and a suitable form of pricing for the system. Heat network operators can charge a fixed monthly fee, and then homeowners can shop around for electricity suppliers to run their heating. Any regulations or metering requirements that would inhibit such innovation would not be in consumers’ best interests, and we believe approaches to metering should be appropriate to the form of heat network in use.

WHAT NEXT FOR HEAT NETWORK REGULATION?

Heat networks currently account for almost 3% of UK heat. If the market is properly regulated while encouraging innovation and rapid delivery, the market share could expand to 20% of all heat by 2050, representing an investment potential of between £60 to £80bn, the largest heat network investment opportunity in all of Europe.

We want to see the new regulations and technical standards shaped to encourage growth and investment, so that heat networks fulfil their low carbon cost effective potential.

Speak to our team if you’d like to learn more about how we can support projects with fully compliant, future proof solutions. https://lastmile-uk.com/

SMART LIGHTING: AN INTELLIGENT WAY TO CUT ENERGY USE

When it comes to energy management in the lighting arena, nothing rivals smart lighting. Highly functional, adaptable and precise, it offers incomparable levels of control and efficiency. In this article we speak with Chris Anderson, Technical Manager at Ansell Lighting who delves deeper into the technology; highlighting its many benefits and explaining how it can be used to achieve optimum energy performance in almost any environment.

Smart lighting has been around for many years, but it is only during the last decade that its use has become more widespread. Advances in technology, rising energy costs and growing consciousness of sustainability issues have all played their part in accelerating its popularity, helping it to become the go-to solution for those seeking an effective lighting system which delivers reduced energy use.

As one of the largest contributors to energy use in buildings – lighting is commonly reported to account for up to 40% of total energy consumption in commercial buildings – lighting is one of the biggest causes of CO2 emissions and high operational costs for organisations. These factors make it a prime area of focus for cutbacks and smart lighting is proving to be the most effective method to achieve this.

In a smart lighting system, each light fitting installed is connected to each other using wireless protocols such as Wi-Fi, Bluetooth and Zigbee.

Forming an intelligent network, this connectivity provides users with the ability to control each fitting installed from a central point, offering an unparalleled level of precision over all lighting settings. From the timings of operation to the colour, brightness, intensity and combinations of lamps in use at any time, smart lighting enables the output of every individual light fitting within a building to be controlled and automated to the most minute detail, meaning that energy use is optimised to this exact level too. It removes the guesswork from energy management, providing tangible, measurable results.

For example, schedules can be preprogrammed so that lighting only operates at specific times of day or in specific areas of buildings that are in use. This targeted approach means lighting is only in use where it is genuinely needed. It also eliminates reliance on human intervention, thereby reducing the risk of lights being accidentally left on and wasting energy.

Smart lighting can also respond to real-time conditions which again helps to moderate energy use. Paired with motion sensors that detect when a space is occupied, lighting can become instantly responsive, activating when someone enters the area and switching off again when it is empty. Similarly, daylight harvesting fittings can be used to automatically dim artificial lighting output when it is not needed. They measure the amount of natural light in a space and adjust output accordingly to maintain optimal illumination levels without unnecessary energy use. This approach not only saves energy but also creates a more comfortable environment by maintaining

consistent light levels throughout the day. It sounds simple but the impact an effective smart lighting system can have on energy use is considerable. Previous installations we have provided have proven that they have the capability of reducing lighting energy consumption by up to two-thirds, which is an impressive saving in terms of both energy use and expenditure.

Smart lighting technology is continually developing and we are already seeing new features arise that are designed to enhance its functionality even further. One of the most promising recent innovations are light monitoring dashboards. A central control and reporting interface, dashboards compile and store real-time data from each device within the smart lighting network to give users a clear, real-time view of their lighting system’s performance, energy consumption and occupancy trends.

They make it easy to identify areas where energy is being wasted, whether that may be through unnecessary operation in certain zones or inefficient settings. They can also flag failing or underperforming components before they cause bigger problems, allowing maintenance to be carried out more quickly and efficiently.

Smart lighting systems and complementary technologies such as light monitoring dashboards are leading the way in energy management in the built environment. Whilst advancements are undoubtedly set to continue, they are a great futureproof investment for organisations looking to optimise energy performance and minimise environmental impact. In an era where sustainability is imperative, smart lighting is proving to be an essential tool for building managers to use to meet energy efficiency, cost and carbon reduction targets. https://ansell-lighting.com/

RENOWNED WELSH SCIENCE PARK SELECTS CUSTOM RINNAI R290 HEAT PUMPS FOR HEATING AND HOT WATER DECARBONISATION

Wales’s first dedicated science park has taken a decisive step toward energy resilience and carbon reduction by installing a customdesigned Rinnai heating and hot water system. The solution features multiple R290 high-temperature air source heat pumps, buffer vessels, and Modbus BMS integration – delivered as a complete, optimized package by Rinnai’s in-house design team.

Contact Rinnai today for design support https://www.rinnai-uk.co.uk/ contact-us/help-me-choose-product

The science park, also known as a research park, technology park or innovation centre, is a purpose-built cluster of spaces. Labs, workrooms and meeting areas are designed to actively support research and development into commercially orientated & viable science and tech businesses and services.

The three-storey facility is built to BREEAM Excellence standards, comprising offices, laboratory and workshop space for up to 700 people. It forms the hub for the entire Parc and a regional centre for a range of businesses from start-ups to large corporate companies.

Rinnai supplied 10 x 27 kW hi-temp ASHP heat pumps and all these units had anti-corrosion treatment to protect from erosion caused by the nearby sea air. Also, part of the system is a 3000L buffer vessel custom-design and manufactured to the site’s requirements.

Selection of units was based on the need for low height & able to spread weight of system across channel on the roof. SCOP of each 27kw unit at flow temperature of 65°C is 3.21.

Rinnai’s range of air source heat pumps utilizes R290 and has a LOW scoring GWP (Global Warming Potential) refrigerant. It allows for several operational benefits: energy efficiency is improved by 10%, the enabling of

water temperature of up to 75 degrees Celsius and 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 allows time sensitive programming and customization enabling specific customer requirements to be met. The range is ratified with an ERP rating of A +++ and A ++.

Rinnai offers full technical support including a Design Service plus a Carbon Calculation Service which considers design from a holistic perspective of capital expenditure, operational expenditure, and carbon savings.

RINNAI WATER HEATERS PROVIDE LISTED BUILDING WITH OVER 13 YEARS (AND COUNTING) OF DURABILITY AND ECONOMY

Bridgewater House, built in 1771, is a classic two-and-a-half storey Georgian house designated a Grade II listed building. It is near the lower end of a line of 10 locks leading from the Runcorn basin of the Bridgewater Canal to the River Mersey. Originally built for the use of the Duke of Bridgewater, it has since been used for various purposes and has now been converted into offices.

More recently, in 1998, a fire damaged the roof and many of the rooms; the building was subsequently repaired and restored and is now owned by Bridgewater Property Management, which uses it partly for its own purposes and leases the rest of the building as offices to other businesses.

Runcorn-based heating engineer Dave Winrow, who runs the business with his son Benjamin, was asked by the company, in 2012, to come up with an

energy efficient solution for the building’s heating and hot water as the owners were alarmed by ever rising fuel bills.

Winrow went to look at the old system that comprised two combis and two boilers. “The archaic boiler system, although very dilapidated was still working, but as it was 10 years old or more it definitely needed replacing with a system that would be easier on running costs.”

Winrow decided to install three Rinnai high efficiency commercial instant water

heaters, effectively making up a tri-flow hot water package, teamed with two Rinnai E32 boilers to provide hot water and heating to all floors. The installed system reduced the fuel costs by 200%.

Since then, the units have been serviced every year, without fail. But the units have never, ever had a single part replaced – that’s approaching 14 years of service providing temperature accurate hot water.

Says Ben Winrow, “The Rinnai continuous flow water heaters are a

fully modulating 54kW unit that gives constant hot water produced separately from the boiler on secondary return. In summer the boiler doesn’t need to fire up at all. It is a prime example of a modulated unit at its best as the unit’s 50kw capability can modulate down to 6kw. It is very clever because it knows exactly how much gas to use to heat the water due to its multi solenoid burner, so it saves fuel and money. With other water heaters they are either full on or off”.

“The site saw heating and water bills tumble from £4,500 per annum to just £1500 in the first year of installation. Over the 14 years the savings run to over six figures”.

quality management and ISO 14001 environmental management and come with full manufacturers’ warranty.

Rinnai N Sensei Series continuous flow water heaters are designed to provide domestic and commercial access to vast volumes of cost-effective, clean and temperature controlled hot water. Rinnai aim to supply UK customers with practical, economic and technical solutions for water heating and building heat.

The Rinnai Sensei N series succeeded the HD range and achieved the same standard of durability and longevity. All appliances are manufactured under strict guidelines of ISO 9001

The Rinnai Sensei N Series is the first ever continuous flow hot water heating unit manufactured with stainless steel heat exchangers to be available in the UK - this provides a greatly extended working life at optimum performance to each of the four models in the range.

SHOWCASE

The four models are: the N1600i giving 954 litres per hour; the N1600e (external) also giving 954 litres per hour (at 50 degrees); the N1300i giving 775 litres per hour and the N1300e also giving 775 litres per hours of temperature controlled at 50 degrees. The two 1600s have load profiles of XXL and are water efficiency class A rated, while the 1300s are load profile XL and are also water efficiency class A rated. Other features include:

• Flue up to 30+ metres for concentric

• Turbo Fan

• Built-in controller as standard on both internal and external models

• Cascade Cable assembly allows up to 24 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.

• Built in flue damper

• Air inlet filter

• Frost Protection – minus 15°C on the internal versions and minus 20 °C on the external versions

• New PCB Design

• Controller as standard –Lockable, set up of appliance, temperature set up to 75°C Maintenance Monitor for engineers www.rinnaiuk.com

Renewable Energy Institute Consultant Expert Certificates

How to become an industry expert in renewable energy:

Expert Learning Pathways help participants become experts in their chosen energy field. Energy Expert Certificates are a 3 course learning pathway, created to help the growth of the renewable energy sector in the UK, Europe and worldwide.

The courses are taught by respected university professors, industry experts and renowned lecturers with years of expertise.

Successful participants gain the internationally recognised Galileo Master Certificate, and the Expert Certificate for the chosen Pathway, from the Renewable Energy Institute.

With 9 prebuilt expert certificates plus the ability to create your own bespoke combination of courses, a Consultant Expert Certificate will be the perfect fit for your career progression.

All courses are CPD accredited and can be used as evidence of your continued professional development.

On completion of your studies, you will receive 1 year of complimentary REI membership

Our experienced support team will be more than happy to answer any questions you might have. Call us today on +(44)131 4469 479 or email us at training@renewableinstitute.org