EPC 'go green'
06 Jan 2012
FPM have sub-contracted sister company Foster Renewable Energies Ltd (FRE) to install renewable energy systems to over 20 houses that fall within EPC. Some of the properties are classified to fall into the 'fuel poverty' category, and have therefore qualified to claim grants provided by Renewable East of up to £1,200 per house to install 'green technologies'.
Case study details
FPM was approached by a Cotman Housing Association to look into the possibilities of implementing forms of renewable energies to 22 of their properties. At present, the properties are heated by an electric storage boiler serving radiator systems which are over 20 years old and suffer regular breakdowns. In addition the residents experience relatively high fuel bills.
All of the houses identified were inspected and where possible, the residents were consulted as to their thoughts on the heating systems. A report on the inspection findings was submitted to the housing association taking into account the present conditions and making recommendations as to what measures could be undertaken, highlights of this report are below:
Built in 1991/1992, the development is traditionally constructed with an insulated cavity wall. Each property is heated by an electric night storage device that provides hot water to a wet system incorporating radiators. DHW is provided by a 300 litre hot water cylinder with dual immersion heaters, one being a boost heater only. The electric central heating unit does not supply DHW. Economy 7 is in use.
Observations
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The existing heating units are aged and are presumed to incur higher annual maintenance costs for the landlord.
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There are occurrences of lack of heat availability due to the operation of the heat source.
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There is a perception that the units are expensive to run for the quantity of heat received.
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The heating units are bulky and take the space of a minimum of one kitchen base unit at a time when more desirable appliances are preferred in a modern kitchen.
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There is a high break down rate of immersion heaters; this is presumed to be a combination of age and hard water deposits.
Alternatives
Air source heat pumps and solar thermal water heating
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ASHP’s provide offer highly energy efficient heating which should result in lower costs for the end users whilst maintaining constant levels of heat.
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The unit can be linked with a new hot water cylinder that when powered by an ASHP will not require residents to use the boost facility for heat water.
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A new hot water cylinder can be solar compatible leading to further reduction of fuel costs.
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Solar thermal offers very efficient water heating which should have a major beneficial impact on the residents' fuel costs.
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Relatively straight forward cylinder replacement that will not require many wholesale changes to the hot water system.
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Existing economy seven tariff can be retained.
Conclusions
It is feasible to replace the existing heating system with an air source heat pump. It is considered that ASHP’s deliver constant levels of heating and provide lower fuel costs.
Solar thermal hot water heating is feasible with an ASHP. Such a measure has been proved to reduce fuel costs and provide ample quantities of hot water.
The housing association is satisfied with our findings and is considering a replacement programme in line with our recommendations.
This case study is an example of Foster's ability to provide a comprehensive service to a wide range of clients from inception through to completion to achieve the most advantageous results for the end users.
If you would just like some basic advice or seek a full survey and quote, please contact FRE >>