The Decentralised Energy Awards recognises and celebrates the people and projects which have developed innovative decentralised energy solutions designed around the needs of the user. Equipment Works, a Telford Homes development supported by FairHeat on design and delivery, has been shortlisted for Heat & Efficiency Award (Operational).
Equipment Works comprises 337 new homes, including 257 homes for Build to Rent on behalf of Greystar and Henderson Park and 80 affordable homes for Notting Hill Genesis, together with 18,830 sq. Ft of flexible commercial space. Telford Homes appointed their long-term partner of choice, independent heat network specialists, FairHeat, to provide design and delivery support for the construction team and Woodford Heating (Mechanical contractor), ensuring that the network would be handed over in compliance with the high-performance specification.
The Equipment Works scheme is an ultra-low temperature heat network that consistently operates at flow/return temperatures of 60/30oC. These operation temperatures are very rarely specified and achieved in the UK. Telford Homes, in collaboration with FairHeat, ensured the scheme was developed as a futureproofed scheme, delivered at high efficiency and reliability, and heat pump ready. The outcome of the Equipment Works scheme resulted in an estimated reduction of heat losses by 68%, avoiding approximately 190 tonnes of CO2 per year, and saving each resident an average of £118 per year.
Andrew Day, Sustainability Director at Telford Homes, Comments:
“An integrated joined-up CAPEX to OPEX decentralise energy solution, underpins a future-proofed green asset for our client and a strong customer offering. Equipment Works provides an important steppingstone towards achieving our net zero 2030 roadmap.”
Telford Homes site team and Woodford Heating (Mechanical contractors) entered the project with an openness and clear drive to work with FairHeat to push the boundaries of what is achievable and develop an understanding the new processes being introduced. The presence of clear performance KPIs assigned at the outset was a key motivator for all involved. There was strong buy in that these would not be compromised, and every effort would be made to achieve, or beat them.
Mike Ridge, Principal Engineer at FairHeat comments:
“This level of network performance is industry leading and only possible through Acceptance Testing of 100% of the apartments and load testing of the plantroom. Telford Homes’ commitment to quality and their partnership approach with FairHeat makes these activities possible. Not only this, but the engagement and desire to deliver high performing heat networks from Telford’s contractor supply chain is evident for all of FairHeat to see, which is a testament to the working relationships and cultures established on Telford Homes projects.”
The success of this scheme has proved that, achieving an exceptionally high performing system is not only possible in terms of performance but also achievable within the same budgetary and supply chain frameworks. It has set the precedent for lesser performing systems, that futureproofing and developing collective skillset will allow teams to continue to meet highest standards in future projects.
