The air source heat pumps (ASHP) will be installed on the roofs of two blocks, and they will extract heat from the air and supply heating and hot water to the development. ASHPs are a low carbon heat source typically generating three times more energy than they use, making them 300% more efficient than traditional central heating systems.
Commenced in 2009, Berkeley is regenerating the neighbourhood in a 30-year project which will deliver over 5,500 mixed-tenure new homes. The development will be built over eight phases and will create a bustling community which is also home to 15 acres of landscaped parkland, 42 acres of open water, including a water sports and open water swimming reservoir, and the Woodberry Wetlands –a dedicated nature reserve cared for by the London Wildlife Trust.
Lowering energy costs for residents
“We have worked closely with Vital Energi for over fifteen years and have established a fantastic working relationship with them over this time. Sustainability and energy efficiency are key pillars at Woodberry Down and are at the forefront of everything we do. The introduction of the Energy Centre will play a huge part in our mission to reduce carbon emissions and lower energy costs for residents here,” said David Barry, operations director at Berkeley Homes (North East London) Ltd.
Primary low-temperature heating system (LTHW) pipework will be installed within the Energy Centre, as well as distribution pipework which will run from the heat pump down to the energy centre, which when complete, will serve all eight phases of the development. Three 1.5MW condensing boilers will be fitted within the new Energy Centre along with a building management system, as well as three 6.5m high 27,000 litre thermal stores.
The Energy Centre will be a double height space (9m high) located adjacent to the basement and ground floor levels so that plant deliveries will require complex engineering, including a specialist movement company and temporary works design.
Once complete, Vital Energi operates and maintains the Energy Centre for two years to ensure all equipment is kept to a high standard and to carry out planned and reactive services of the Energy Centre.
Creating low carbon resilient homes
Rob Callaghan, MD of Vital Energi’s London and Southern division, said: “We’re delighted to be continuing our relationship by working on another of Berkeley Homes’ impressive mixed-use developments. It’s great to see an innovative regeneration project like Woodberry Down with energy conservation at its core.
“Berkeley is passionate about creating low carbon resilient homes to help tackle climate change, and we’re proud to be helping them on their journey by installing highly efficient renewable technologies such as air source heat pumps.”