Retail Decarbonisation Project, Oxford
Decarbonisation & Sustainability
Pioneering Decarbonization: Achieving Gas-Free Heating in a Retail Supermarket
This case study showcases our collaboration with a retail supermarket client in their ambitious decarbonisation program. As part of their commitment to sustainability, the client aimed to remove all gas installations from their stores by 2035. We were approached to help design and implement a feasibility study at their Oxford 2 store, focusing on the removal of natural gas and the introduction of direct electric provision or heat pump technology. This case study highlights our role as the Principal Contractor and the successful execution of the project, resulting in improved energy efficiency, reduced maintenance requirements, and positive feedback from the store manager and staff.
The project involved removing all-natural gas installations from the Oxford 2 store and upgrading the associated plant systems with direct electric provision or heat pump technology. The objective was to achieve gas-free heating while ensuring minimal disruption to store operations. The project encompassed various aspects, including plant upgrades, crane lifts, ductwork alterations, installation of new heat pumps and ventilation solutions, electrical upgrades, and the construction of a new prefabricated plant room.
Implementation:
To address the challenges and achieve the project objectives, the following actions were taken
- Project Management: As the Principal Contractor, we managed all aspects of the installation, working closely with the store manager and staff. Clear communication and coordination ensured minimal interference with store operations.
- Plant Replacement: The existing gas-fired boiler plant and hot water heaters were replaced with direct electric provision or heat pump technology. The new systems were carefully designed to provide efficient heating while reducing energy consumption.
- Ventilation Solutions: Upgrades were made to the café and toilet extract systems, incorporating heat recovery ventilation solutions to save energy and minimise ventilation heat load in ancillary areas.
- Prefabricated Plant Room: A new prefabricated plant room, designed and built by our team, was installed. It housed replacement water storage tanks, booster sets, direct electric hot water provision, water softening plant, and upgraded BMS controls to serve the existing and replacement plant and services.
- Electrical Upgrades: Electrical systems were upgraded to accommodate the new plant provisions, ensuring sufficient power supply. New power connections were established from the existing incoming panel boards.
Results
The Project Yielded Several Positive Outcomes:
- Successful Implementation: The project was completed on time, meeting the scheduled start and commissioning dates. Store trading remained uninterrupted throughout the installation process.
- Enhanced Heating System: The new heating system, including direct electric provision or heat pump technology, significantly improved the store’s heating performance. The store manager and staff provided positive feedback on the enhanced comfort levels.
- Energy Efficiency and Sustainability: The replacement of approximately 25 items of old plant with 10 more efficient units contributed to improved energy efficiency and reduced maintenance requirements. The store’s decarbonization efforts aligned with the client’s long-term sustainability goals.
