Interest in heat pump technology is increasing due to a number of Government initiatives such as the Merton Rule and the drive for all new homes to be zero carbon by 2016. The BERR’s report ‘The potential for Micro-generation’ suggests that 28,000 heat pumps will be installed by 2012, a ten-fold increase on current volumes.
For heat pumps to provide an effective solution it is important that the benefits and key issues on how these systems are integrated into buildings are understood.
There are many benefits to installing a Kensa heat pump for the Consultant. These include: -
Can assist in planning issues.
For dwellings where 10 or more are to be constructed (or the area is more than 0.5 hectares) and other developments where the floor space will be 1000sq metres or more (or site is 1 hectare or more), many local authorities have adopted the use of the 'Merton Rule' within their planning requirements. Pioneered by the London Borough of Merton, the Merton Rule requires the use of renewable energy onsite to reduce annual CO2 emissions in the built environment. Typical reductions are 10%, however a number of authorities have increased this level and are planning to introduce more stringent targets.
Installing a ground source heat pump can reduce the onsite CO2 emissions helping to meet planning requirements.
The use of renewable technology is also generally favoured in any planning decision now made by local authorities.
Help gain compliance with Part L of the Building Regulations and the Energy Performance of Buildings Directive (EPBD).
Installing a ground source heat pump will increase a building’s Standard Assessment Procedure (SAP) or Simplified Building Energy Building Model (SBEM) rating and help the building meet current Regulations. Indeed, such is the (carbon dioxide) CO2 reduction, there might be an opportunity, in some cases, to downgrade the insulation specification and still achieve an acceptable CO2 emission rate. However, this tactic is not recommended simply because any increase in the property’s heat load will result in a higher flow temperature, a less efficient heat pump and higher running costs.
Can help meet the mandatory reductions set out within the Code for Sustainable Homes for energy reduction.
Due to the lower CO2 emissions from a heat pump it can help meet the minimum Percentage reduction in Dwelling Emission Rate over Target Emission Rate (as per SAP 2005) set out within the Code.
The code will provide valuable information to home buyers, and offer Consultants a tool with which to differentiate themselves in sustainability terms.
Technical and application backup including advice on COP optimisation.
As an engineering business with ten years experience in the UK heat pump market, Kensa prides itself on offering the industry’s best technical support. Starting with a thorough appraisal of the proposed application, Kensa can offer precise guidance to ensure the heat pump is matched to the property, including details of whether boreholes, horizontal ground arrays or water sources can be utilised. All advice is specific to the needs of the UK market. In particular, specialist advice can be offered to ensure complete compatibility with the heating distribution system and associated control system.
Kensa can advise on plantroom layouts and systems including positioning of the ground arrays ensuring the project all goes smoothly.
Grant
The equipment is fully certified under the government and Energy Company grants schemes, allowing access to substantial grants for the developer to offset any perceived increased capital costs of installing renewable technology.
Kensa are now able to offer clients £1,200.00 CERT funding on domestic installations which are completed by the end of 2010. To find out more about this funding stream and to read more about the proposed Renewable Heating Incentive Scheme, which is another attractive funding stream currently out for consultation by the Government, click here.
UK manufacture
Specifically designed to match the UK climate with full application support based in the UK.
Modern technology
By using modern renewable technology such as a Kensa heat pump, it demonstrates exemplar and sustainable building design. A socially sustainable building, if successful, can help people to see the benefit of living sustainably.
Product range
Kensa offers the widest selection of products ranging from ‘affordable’ 4kW models to 75kW commercial plant. Kensa offers unique twin compressor models, can supply a 24kW single phase unit and offers models that can handle domestic hot water requirements. Please see our product range pages.
Kensa is a manufacturer with an objective to remove any ‘mystery’ linked to heat pump technology and their integration into modern buildings. Kensa’s application department will help you answer questions on how to maximise your client’s savings and integrate systems into buildings.
