Lifecycle Chiller Replacement
Equans designed a lifecycle chiller replacement project at North Middlesex University Hospital, following a detailed review of cost and energy saving opportunities.Lifecycle Chiller Replacement
Equans designed a lifecycle chiller replacement project at North Middlesex University Hospital, following a detailed review of cost and energy saving opportunities.
Key numbers
Key numbers
Overview
Following a thorough study of the cost and energy savings, our team at North Middlesex University Hospital designed the chiller replacement (2No) as part of an early lifecycle drawdown. The existing chillers serving the PFI estate were over 12 years old, had high ongoing maintenance costs and consumed more energy than available newer design units. Whilst it is recommended that the chillers be replaced every 14 to 20 years, we decided to draw down lifecycle funds early to replace the units.
Our work
Following the detailed cost and energy-saving study, our team designed the chiller replacement (2No) and an early lifecycle drawdown was agreed upon.
A design and specification to replace the chiller were commissioned and proposed to the client’s financial and energy savings estimations. After several meetings with the client and suppliers, a preferred bidder was selected , and a project plan was implemented.
The replacement works were carefully planned and well executed with no disruption to the day-to-day operation of an extremely busy hospital. The old units were taken away by our supply chain partners LH PLC, where almost 100% of the materials (the metal, the working fans, the controls, the cabling, the refrigerant, the oil, etc) were recycled or reused. Only the insulation has yet to find a recyclable solution.
Impact
Client benefits
Despite a 27% increase in Cooling Degree Days since 2019, the new chillers consumed less energy. Degree days are a tool that can be used in the assessment and analysis of weather-related energy consumption in buildings. This avoided an equivalent of 2,229kg of CO2. The addition of the ‘top hats’ to the new chillers allowed improved airflow around the units. At higher external temperatures, the energy savings are circa 72%.
Testimonials
‘”This project was particularly challenging with the location of the lifting site being in the Ambulance bays and Entrance to the Children’s A&E. Through good communication and stakeholder management we navigated all hurdles including keeping the hospital sufficiently cooled throughout the project duration. I am delighted with the chillers which have made an instant impact on the hospital. Not only are we saving money through energy reduction but the climate within the hospital during peak temperatures has improved leading to a more comfortable environment for staff and visitors alike.”
Robert Dashwood, General Manager
Our expertise
Equans supports businesses, communities and the public sector by mobilising its expertise to provide low-carbon energy solutions, offer cutting-edge technical and FM services and transformative regeneration across the UK & Ireland.
