Challenge

The existing heating system was in exceptionally poor condition, incurring significant maintenance costs and creating an ongoing risk of failure. This presented a real threat of disruption to teaching and health & safety compliance. The scale of the site and the high heating demand required careful balancing of long-term sustainability goals against budget constraints and deliverability within a single academic year.

Solution

Carré Consultancy undertook a rigorous options appraisal in line with HM Treasury’s Green Book guidance, testing direct boiler replacement, full air source heat pump deployment, and hybrid systems. While a fully electric solution was deemed unfeasible due to infrastructure and cost barriers, the hybrid approach offered the best balance of resilience, cost, and carbon savings.

The approved scheme combined high-efficiency condensing modular gas boilers with an integrated air source heat pump. This hybrid solution reduces reliance on fossil fuels, cuts annual energy consumption by over 55,000 kWh, and achieves projected carbon savings of more than 10 tonnes per year. Distribution pipework and heat emitters were also renewed to maximise efficiency.

A competitive sealed-bid tender process secured cost certainty, with MESL Ltd appointed as contractor under a JCT Minor Works contract. Works were programmed for the 2024 summer and autumn terms, ensuring completion by December with minimal disruption to students.

Client Testimonial

“Carre Consultancy have a good understanding of all issues that need to be taken into account when working with schools, to include safeguarding and H&S, and they are always proactive in scheduling works around school days /term dates if required.”
Clare Parker, Towers School Academy Trust