What are air source heat pumps?

Air source heat pumps (ASHPs) are a low-carbon technology that provides efficient heating solutions for homes and businesses. There are two types of ASHPs distinguished by how they distribute their heat: through air or water.

How do air source heat pumps work?

Both types of ASHP draw in outside air over a network of tubes filled with very low-temperature refrigerant, which reacts to the warmer air. This gas then passes through a compressor at pressure, forming into a hot liquid. The hot liquid then passes through a heat exchanger, which draws out the heat for your hot water and heating circuits.

An air-to-air heat pump transfers the outside air directly into your premises via a fan system to heat the space. In contrast, an air-to-water heat pump transfers the outside air via your central heating systems to heat radiators, underfloor heating, and provide hot water.

A heat pump system can provide all the heat your premises needs while running at much lower temperatures than a gas boiler, thereby reducing your energy bills. This is assuming you have adequate insulation in your property and that the ASHP has been sized correctly.

So, what are the pros and cons?

Advantages of air source heat pumps

Low carbon energy solution

The main advantage of air source heat pumps is how they are more environmentally friendly than fossil fuel boilers running on gas or oil. While they use electricity, they are a much more carbon-friendly solution and the installation of solar PV panels can offset the running costs.

Low maintenance

Any type of heating system requires maintenance to keep them running as efficiently as possible. Air source heat pumps are no different, but it really is a low-maintenance solution and generally needs the occasional cleaning. Typically, this includes wiping down the coils, replacing the filters, removing dirt from the internal blade fans, and cleaning the registers. Because the unit is installed outside, it’s also important to ensure nothing obstructs the heat pump.

Grants

At the time of writing, there is an upfront cost of around £15,000 for an average-sized air source heat pump for an average house. The good news is that small businesses (and homeowners) in England and Wales may be eligible to receive £5,000 off the cost of a new pump, thanks to the government’s Boiler Upgrade Scheme. As detailed on the government’s website, you’re eligible for a grant if all the following are true. You must:

• own the property you’re applying for (including if it’s a business, a second home, or a property you rent out to tenants)
• have installed (or plan to install) your new heating system on or after 1 April 2022
• be replacing fossil fuel heating systems (such as oil, gas, or electric)

In addition, your property must have a valid Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) with no outstanding recommendations for loft or cavity wall insulation.

Longevity

As with any heating solution, it is only as good as how well it is maintained. Typically, a well-installed air source heat pump system can last for around 20 years. If you regularly maintain it, though, it could last even longer, making it a worthwhile investment.

Disadvantages of air source heat pumps

Upfront costs

As we’ve already discussed, air source heat pumps carry a nett upfront cost of around £10,000, and so that cost needs to be factored in, especially if your business is not eligible for a grant. It’s likely that the upfront cost will decrease over the course of the decade, but the grants may not exist then!

Running costs (don’t forget about offsetting with PV)

Heat pumps run on electricity, which is roughly three times the price of gas, but the average heat pump is at least three times more efficient than a gas boiler. That means that ASHPs do cost a little more to run, but because of their efficiency, it’s not as high as you’d think. It’s important to get advice from a certified provider, such as Practical Energy Solutions, before you make any firm decisions. Make sure the ASHP is sized correctly.

It’s not carbon-neutral

Because ASHPs rely on electricity, they aren’t always green, and they’re certainly not carbon-neutral. That said, they are much more sustainable than oil, coal, and gas heating systems.

Property suitability

In order to get the most out of air source heat pumps, the property has to be suitable:

• Large radiators: to get the same heat output as a fossil fuel system, radiators for ASHPs need to be twice the size of normal ones
• Hot water cylinder: there needs to be space for a large hot water cylinder inside the premises. The size needed will be determined by the size of the premises
• Insulation: the premises must meet standard requirements

Summary

There are many advantages as well as some disadvantages to air source heat pumps. If you’re looking for a solution which is sustainable and efficient, heat pumps are ideal. If the cost will be an issue, it’s probably worthwhile looking at an alternative, such as solar panels or biomass.

Ready to harness the power of air?

If you’re considering investing in an air source heat pump solution for your business, we can help. From initial consultation to design, installation, and ongoing maintenance, our team of expert energy technicians can support you at every step of the process, ensuring a seamless transition to sustainable energy solutions that align with your business goals and values.

Contact us on 01733 595150 to get started.

What is solar PV?

Solar PV (solar photovoltaic) systems turn sunlight into electricity using semiconducting materials, such as silicon. The power generated is 100% sustainable and cost-effective, making it an ideal solution for businesses to reduce carbon emissions and energy costs.

Utilising solar panels to generate green energy for your business is a sustainable solution that not only saves you money but also aids in achieving net zero emissions. Significant cost savings can be realised over time, especially when linked to battery storage systems.

A solar PV solution has the potential to deliver a substantial return on investment while bolstering eco-credentials.

Where should solar panels be installed?

While solar PV panels can be installed on the ground, greater benefits can actually be achieved by installing the panels off the ground. Installing solar PV panels on the roof of a building or on a canopy, for example, is a great utilisation of wasted space. It maximises the use of available square footage without compromising on functionality.

Another excellent solution is incorporating solar panels into your carport, enabling your staff and customers to charge their electric vehicles while at the office, thereby promoting sustainability and convenience simultaneously.

Managing your solar design and installation

In addition to maintaining sustainable energy solutions, we can also work with you to design and install your solar PV solution, whether solar panels on your building/premises or a carport.

Our team of expert technicians ensures that the installation is optimised for efficiency and effectiveness, providing you with a seamless transition to green energy.

Benefits of solar panel solutions

Solar panels deliver green, reliable, and cost-effective energy, which, in the face of ever-escalating energy costs, is highly attractive to businesses. They also offer a compelling sustainability statement to your customers and prospects, demonstrating your commitment to environmental responsibility.

They can significantly reduce your energy costs by generating your own electricity, thereby reducing reliance on external suppliers and mitigating the impact of fluctuating energy prices. Moreover, solar panels generate ongoing payback by selling excess solar energy to the grid, providing a source of revenue and further offsetting initial investment costs.

Finally, solar panels produce uninterrupted power which, when paired with battery storage, eliminates the impact from national power outages. This ensures operational continuity and reliability, safeguarding your business against disruptions due to grid failures or emergencies.

Ready to harness the power of the sun?

If you’re considering investing in a solar panel solution or a solar carport for your business, we can help. From initial consultation to design, installation, and ongoing maintenance, our team of expert energy technicians can support you at every step of the process, ensuring a seamless transition to sustainable energy solutions that align with your business goals and values.

Contact us on 01733 595150 to get started.

What is Combined Heat and Power?

Combined Heat & Power systems, or CHP for short, work by taking biomass or gas and converting it into electricity. CHP has the additional benefit of free hot water as a byproduct.

What are the Advantages of Combined Heat & Power?

Highly Efficient

A great benefit of CHP systems is that they are highly efficient and can operate entirely off-grid, making them a great solution for businesses that are looking to be sustainable. CHP systems can be operated with a variety of fuels, such as Biomass, Biogas, Natural Gas, LPG as well as Hydrogen.

Lower Energy Costs

CHP systems can deliver energy savings of up to 40%. This offers a consistent ongoing reduction in energy costs because the energy generated onsite can remove the need for a third-party electrical supplier.

In addition to reduced ongoing energy costs, it is possible to install a CHP system via a PPA contract, which means there are generally no upfront capital costs. In some cases, it may also be possible to claim back tax on the procurement of CHP systems, although it is best to check this with HMRC.

Reduced CO2 Emissions

A CHP system is typically fuelled by natural gas, which greatly reduces CO2 emissions. However, by using biomass, biogas, or hydrogen as the fuel source for a CHP system, it is possible to further reduce CO2 emissions to the point where it can essentially be carbon-neutral.

In addition, CHP systems help to reduce loss from the Grid supply route by around 35% because the supply of power is close to the source of use.

What are the Disadvantages of Combined Heat & Power?

Large Scale

CHP systems are generally only suitable for premises with a constant demand for heating and hot water, such as a hotel, spa, or swimming pool. It is not an economical solution for smaller businesses simply wishing to heat office space.

Higher Capital Cost

There is also a high capital cost for installing a CHP system. While this cost can be recouped over the long term, it makes it a less financially sound investment for smaller scale installations.

What Businesses Benefit from CHP?

A CHP system is ideal for a business with power and hot water needs such as a hotel, spa, or swimming pool. Essentially, a CHP system could generate a hotel’s electric air conditioning and other electric needs while producing enough hot water to fill a swimming pool or to be used by an adjacent spa at no extra cost. Equally, a CHP system is ideal for businesses that need to deep clean food-use tankers and equipment.

Conclusion

In conclusion, a Combined Heat & Power system is highly efficient, lowers energy costs, and can greatly reduce CO2 emissions, but it is most suited to businesses with a high demand for the free hot water that CHP systems produce as a byproduct.

Ready to embark on your CHP journey?

Take the first step towards energy independence and sustainability by exploring CHP solutions tailored to your business needs. We are experts in green energy generation and can support your business in decarbonising. Together, we can power a brighter tomorrow with the limitless potential of solar energy.

Contact us on 01733 595150 to get started.

In the realm of sustainability, businesses are increasingly turning their gaze towards the sun for solutions. Solar energy not only offers a cleaner alternative to traditional power sources but also presents a promising avenue for cost savings and independence.

In this guide, we’ll explore solar efficiency for businesses in how to leverage solar power to enhance efficiency, save money, and even contribute to a greener future.

Embracing Solar Energy: Efficiency in Action

Understanding Solar Potential

One of the key attractions of solar energy lies in its abundant availability. With the sun showering the Earth with more energy in an hour than the entire world consumes in a year, tapping into this resource presents a great opportunity for businesses to meet their energy needs sustainably.

Calculating Energy Generation

The amount of energy a business can generate through solar power depends on several factors, including location, roof space, and system efficiency. However, modern solar technology is remarkably efficient, with photovoltaic panels converting sunlight into electricity at increasingly higher rates.

Cost Savings

Beyond its environmental benefits, solar power can significantly reduce operational costs for businesses. By generating electricity on-site, companies can reduce their reliance on grid power, thus mitigating the impact of fluctuating utility prices.

Going Off-Grid: Achieving Energy Independence

Harnessing Battery Storage

For businesses seeking complete energy independence, integrating battery storage solutions with their solar systems is key. Battery technology has advanced rapidly in recent years, offering reliable storage options that allow businesses to store excess solar energy for use during periods of low sunlight or even during grid outages.

The Benefits of Off-Grid Living

Going off-grid not only offers businesses greater control over their energy supply but also serves as a barrier against rising utility costs and potential disruptions. It fosters resilience, ensuring continuity of operations even in challenging circumstances.

Maximising Solar Efficiency: Dealing with Excess Energy

Selling Excess Energy

One of the most compelling aspects of solar power is its potential to generate surplus electricity. Rather than letting this excess energy go to waste, businesses can explore various avenues for monetising it. One option is to sell surplus energy back to the grid where excess electricity is fed back into the grid, offsetting future energy bills.

Community and Commercial Partnerships

Another option is to forge partnerships with neighbouring businesses or communities. By selling excess energy directly to nearby consumers, businesses can not only generate additional revenue but also foster a sense of community and collaboration in the pursuit of sustainability.

Power Purchase Agreements (PPAs)

Alternatively, businesses can enter into power purchase agreements with third parties, such as renewable energy developers or utility companies. Under a PPA, the business agrees to purchase electricity generated by a solar facility at a predetermined rate, often lower than standard utility prices, providing long-term cost savings and supporting renewable energy development.

Conclusion: A Bright Future with Solar Efficiency

In an era defined by the urgent need for sustainability, harnessing the power of the sun emerges as a beacon of hope for businesses worldwide. By embracing solar energy, companies can not only reduce their environmental footprint and operational costs but also enhance resilience and foster innovation. Whether it’s through on-site generation, off-grid solutions, or strategic partnerships, the path to solar efficiency holds immense promise for businesses ready to embrace a brighter, greener future.

Ready to embark on your solar journey?

Take the first step towards energy independence and sustainability by exploring solar solutions tailored to your business needs. We are experts in green energy generation and can support your business in decarbonising. Together, we can power a brighter tomorrow with the limitless potential of solar energy.

Contact us on 01733 595150 to get started.

In an era where sustainability is no longer a buzzword but a necessity, care homes across the UK are seeking ways to reduce their carbon footprint while ensuring reliable energy sources to support their residents’ needs. As the spotlight intensifies on environmental responsibility, Practical Energy Solutions delivers tailored solutions of renewable energy for care homes to meet the unique demands of care facilities nationwide.

Addressing the Energy Challenge

Care homes face a dual challenge: providing a comfortable environment for residents while managing escalating energy costs. Traditional energy sources not only contribute to carbon emissions but also strain operational budgets. Herein lies the opportunity for a paradigm shift towards renewable energy solutions.

Standing at the forefront of this transition, we offer a comprehensive suite of renewable energy technologies tailored specifically for care homes. From Air Source Heat Pumps (ASHP) to Combined Heat and Power (CHP) systems, Solar PV solutions, and Biomass boilers, our expertise spans the spectrum of sustainable energy options.

Designing Sustainable Solutions

Each care home has unique energy requirements influenced by factors such as size, occupancy, and geographic location. We recognise this diversity and approach every project with a bespoke mindset.

Our team of expert engineers collaborates closely with care home owners and managers to understand their energy needs and environmental goals. Through meticulous planning and innovative design, we develop tailored solutions that optimise energy efficiency while minimising environmental impact.

Installation Excellence

Implementing renewable energy solutions demands precision and expertise. We have a track record of excellence in installation, ensuring seamless integration of renewable technologies into care home infrastructures.

Our installation teams adhere to the highest industry standards, employing cutting-edge techniques to minimise disruption to care home operations. Whether retrofitting existing facilities or integrating renewable systems into new constructions, we guarantee a smooth and efficient installation process from start to finish.

Service and Maintenance Assurance

The journey towards sustainability does not end with installation; it requires ongoing care and maintenance to ensure optimal performance. We provide comprehensive service and maintenance packages tailored to the specific needs of care homes.

Our dedicated maintenance engineers conduct regular inspections and servicing to maximise the longevity and efficiency of renewable energy systems. With proactive monitoring and swift response to any issues, we offer peace of mind to care home owners and managers, allowing them to focus on delivering exceptional care to their residents.

Commitment to Sustainability

For us, sustainability is not just a business model; it’s a core value ingrained in everything we do. By partnering with us, care homes not only reduce their carbon footprint but also contribute to a cleaner, greener future for generations to come.

We are committed to staying abreast of the latest advancements in renewable energy technology, continually refining our offerings to deliver the most efficient and sustainable solutions to our clients. With Practical Energy Solutions as your partner, you can embark on a journey towards energy independence and environmental stewardship with confidence.

Ready to harness the power of renewable energy?

Join us in the pursuit renewable energy for care homes and communities nationwide.

Contact us on 01733 595150 to learn how we can customise a renewable energy solution to meet your specific needs and goals. Together, let’s power a sustainable tomorrow for generations to come.

The UK government is proposing new, gas-fired power stations to ensure the country’s energy security. But with no plans to include measures for climate change-limiting carbon capture, how will the stations enable us to reach zero-carbon electricity by 2035?

Liam Hardy, a senior policy advisor at the Green Alliance think tank, warns that the new power plants ‘will make bills higher for consumers in the long run while increasing the risks of runaway climate change’.

So, as a business, how can you take control of your electric generation to ensure you are using clean energy, but are also not subject to ever-increasing energy bills.

Generate your business’s energy

One of the easiest ways to take control of your business’s electric generation is by using a Combined Heat and Power (CHP) system. They are an ideal solution for businesses with high electricity and hot water demand, such as hotels, spas, swimming pools, care homes and hospitals, as well as for processes that require hot water, such as the cleaning of food-use tankers and equipment.

CHP systems work by taking biomass or gas and converting it into electricity. The additional benefit is that free hot water is produced as a byproduct.

The gas units are 33% efficient. In simple terms, this means that for, say seven pence of gas you can produce twenty-one pence worth of electric and as energy cost rise this benefit has more value.

A CHP system is the perfect solution to lower your electricity costs and reduce reliance on grid energy. They provide budget stability through predictable electricity costs, enabling accurate forecasting of operating expenses. They also are a great way to achieve zero-carbon electricity for your business.

We’re here to help

Are you ready to take control of your business’s electric generation and reap the rewards? We can advise, design, install, maintain and service your energy solution.

Contact us on 01733 595150 to get started.