Camden and Islington councils adopt low cost, carbon free infrared heating
Cutting edge technology ‘warming the person, not the air’ could save the local authorities up to 75% on energy costs.
A retrofit project is now underway at the Hornsey Street Refuse & Recycling centre, with overall energy consumption at the site predicted to plummet by 80% as a result of the upgrade.
Replacing an AmbiRad fan heater system, 35 Shadow Industrial infrared alternatives are now set to be installed at the facility. Not only will this contribute to Camden and Islington councils’ net zero goals, between 50 and 75% of energy costs are also expected to be cut.
‘When Vitalenergi first introduced us to Shadow Industrial’s technology we were very impressed, particularly by its capabilities and relatively low operational costs,’ said Graham Hughes of Islington Council. ‘It’s going to make a massive contribution to our efforts, alongside Camden Council to reduce emissions. We’ll also be able to approach our heating strategy in a far more diverse way, keeping costs down and passing those savings onto taxpayers
Infrared heating works by emitting radiant heat with precisely-configured reflectors. This means it ‘heats the person not the air around them, meaning significantly less is wasted in the process. The technology is particularly effective in large, high-ceilinged spaces which have high footfall and traffic levels, meaning entrances are constantly open, or regularly opening, exposing interiors to cold more frequently. wall-mounted or hung from the ceiling, the heaters can be turned off an on, on-demand, meaning it’s possible to heat specific areas only when the workforce us using them, with energy use stopping immediately once powered down.
‘Shortwave infrared’s set to be a serious market disruptor in the industrial heating market. It’s a game-changer for local authority and public sector projects, which are both subject to strict sustainability briefs and budgetary constraints,’ said Luke Chappell, Lead Designer at Vitalenergi London, the M&E contractor for the authorities, which made the recommendation to switch to infrared. ‘We cannot wait to see the positive impact Shadow Industrial’s heaters will have on those working within, and managing, the Hornsey Street Refuse & Recycling Centre. The Shadow Industrial team has been amazing throughout the process and we looking forward to partnering again on future projects.’
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