ALTRO FEATURES IN DEMENTIA-FRIENDLY DESIGN AT SALISBURY DISTRICT HOSPITAL

  

A package of Altro products has been used in the Imber Ward at Salisbury District Hospital, a new, environmentally-sustainable facility providing extra bed capacity for elderly care patients. Imber Ward is housed in the Elizabeth Building, named in honour of the late Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II. The new £14m building provides 24 additional beds in a state-of-the-art ward, incorporating a mixture of four-bed bays and side rooms, and was part- funded by the hospital’s charity, the Stars Appeal.

A combination of Altro floors and walls was used throughout Imber Ward. Altro Illustra, Altro Suprema and Altro Operetta floors provide safety, natural aesthetics and ease of cleaning. Altro Wood provides a homely, welcoming feel and Altro Whiterock Digiclad (Custom) was used for the walls creating an individual design focus for the ward and quiet room. Altro Pisces and Altro Whiterock Satins and Altro Whiterock White were installed in the bathrooms, showers and wet rooms, giving staff and patients the reassurance of bare foot and shod safety from slips, and easy to clean hygienic walls.

Lesley Self, Salisbury District Hospital’s ArtCare Projects Officer and Julia Gregory from the hospital’s Estates Capital Projects Team used focus groups with patients, families, visitors, and clinical teams to inform the design of the new ward. The interior reflects the colourful four seasons, incorporating local landscapes with photos and drawings. Walls and floors have a biophilic theme and are customisable with digitally printed images. Unique, customised rooms aid wayfinding, ensuring each room is distinct.

Catering for elderly patients with complex needs, the design principles of creating dementia-friendly environments were vitally important. Lesley Self, ArtCare Projects Officer, says:

“Patients may experience disorientation while navigating the area, so integrating wayfinding into the overall design concept was essential. Understanding these needs was part of the design process, but also helping staff take ownership and care of the spaces by understanding why design is important to them and how amazing it can look.”

Imber Ward is the biggest capital development at Salisbury District Hospital in nearly 20 years. It provides 24 additional beds, featuring a mix of four-bed bays and side rooms, that enable elderly patients recovering from surgery to be cared for in a dedicated space tailored to their needs. By providing extra bed capacity, Imber Ward underpins the hospital’s elective recovery programme, as in turn this allows surgical beds to be better utilised to deliver much-needed elective care such as day surgery. The ward marks a major milestone in Salisbury NHS Foundation Trust’s efforts to deliver the very best compassionate, effective care to the community.

Altro products have been used over the years in a wide range of projects at Salisbury District Hospital. Lesley Self says:

“We have always used Altro products as they are great for clinical environments being versatile and providing a safe hygienic, softening finish. We know that these products will be in place for at least 20 years, so they need to be durable, flexible, and able to match changing colour schemes.”

The package of products from Altro included:

Altro Illustra: available in a range of contemporary and flexible designs, this stylish, functional and design-led safety flooring has enhanced sustained slip resistance.

Altro Suprema: award winning, non-sparkle, low-gloss safety floor with superior stain, abrasion and scratch resistance.

Altro Wood: a general purpose 2mm wood-effect vinyl safety floor available in a range of designs with different plank sizes and shades.

Altro Whiterock Digiclad (Custom): a custom print option utilising UV cured inks onto an Altro Whiterock sheet from a design or photographic image.

Altro Pisces: a domestic-look specialist floor for a “home from home”, warm feel in wet rooms and bathrooms. Altro Operetta has designer looks with 4dB sound reduction.

Altro Whiterock Satins: a colourful and tonal, satin finish wall sheets with all the hygiene and durability of Altro Whiterock.

Altro Whiterock White: a proven, high performance, hygienic alternative to ceramic tiles.

 

CLICK HERE to find out more about Altro’s

flooring and walling solutions for hospitals

 

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Sternfenster Streamlines Window Deliveries with Podfather Software.

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Sternfenster, one of the UK’s largest manufacturers of uPVC and aluminium windows and doors, has boosted customer service whilst reducing its environmental impact using logistics software from Podfather. Electronic Proof of Delivery (ePOD) features have eliminated hundreds of thousands of pieces of paper from the delivery process and have reduced the back-office admin resource by around 5,000-man hours a year.

 

“Prior to Podfather we relied on paper pick lists, manifests and delivery notes,” commented Scott Pedge, Transport Manager at Sternfenster. “This resulted in up to 600 sheets of paper per day, and took half a day to produce, allocate to drivers, and process on their return to base. We did have early stages of digitisation, with on-board computers linked to our bespoke scanning solution, but this was not integrated to other parts of the production, delivery, invoice process.”

 

Serving hundreds of customers, ranging from one-man operators to its network of approved installers, Sternfenster makes between 400 and 500 deliveries in an average week. From its state-of-the-art manufacturing facility in Lincoln, its fleet of 18-tonne truck and trailer units cover most of England operating from Exeter to Margate, and Portsmouth to Leeds.

 

Using Podfather, which includes logistics planning, route optimisation and proof of delivery (POD) functionality, Sternfenster has virtually eliminated paper from its delivery operation. Windows and doors are scanned onto each truck, in accordance with the daily schedule, and the driver, having first completed a routine of Podfather guided vehicle checks, simply logs into the app to access details of the first delivery.

 

Live tracking gives customers and back-office staff real-time visibility of progress as it unfolds, and, once on-site, the driver unloads, scanning each unit off the truck, as per the Podfather schedule. In addition to the scanned information the driver also captures date and time stamped photographs and signatures as further evidence of delivery. The automation has boosted customer service with real-time visibility and reporting, resulting in fewer customer queries.

 

“One of the most important factors when selecting a partner was the ability to work with our existing systems and processes,” Scott Pedge continued. “Podfather were about the only company willing to have this conversation and, since day one, has supported us as we have rolled the solution out across our operation.”

 

Brent Tromp, Customer Operations Manager at Sternfenster, added

“Not only has Podfather reduced our reliance on paper and routine admin tasks, it has really improved our customer experience. Using Podfather, customers can access live information about when their delivery is due – for trades this is crucial as they know who needs to be onsite and when.

“The real-time sharing of updates also reduces the need for customers to call us. However, if they do, we have everything we need to answer any query thanks to Podfather and all in just a couple of clicks,” he continued. “Not only does this further reduce our back-office resource it has also impacted on the number and value of credit notes we issue. Before Podfather, investigating misplaced delivery items or disputes was a time-consuming process. Now, with improved traceability, resolving these issues is faster and more efficient, both for the customer and us.”

 

Established in 1974, Sternfenster quickly became one of the UK’s leading trade fabricators of uPVC and aluminium windows and doors. Now celebrating 50 years of business, Sternfenster has over 180 employees, operating from an 137,000 square-metre production facility in Lincoln. Under the guidance of original founder’s sons, Sternfenster continues to deliver high-quality products, nationally, but with the values of a family-run business.

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RINNAI: EXPLORING OPTIMAL OPTIONS FOR CARE HOME DHW SOLUTION

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RINNAI’S WHITEPAPER ON VALUE ENGINEERING

EXPLORES OPTIMAL OPTIONS FOR CARE HOME DHW SOLUTION

Rinnai has issued a new whitepaper titled “Optimizing Domestic Hot Water Systems for Archetype Care Homes: A Value Engineering Approach.” The full version is available now on the Rinnai website:

The whitepaper is strident in pointing out that Value Engineering (VE) principles highlight the importance of putting customer requirements first, applying cost effective engineering solutions and improving the whole life value of a project – as opposed to simply cutting costs resulting in the inevitable compromise of performance.

It includes a major section on an archetype Case Study which analyzes a range of potential solutions for the refurbishment of a care home in the UK. Carbon-Cost Analysis (CCA) studies are used to decipher the optimal solution based on the customers’ criteria of reducing carbon dioxide (CO2) emissions by 20%, opting for a system with no more than two heat pumps (HPs) due to space constraints, as well as considering the operating expenditure (OPEX) as a key metric when deciding on the final solution. The archetypal site was given a current system of 3 x non-condensing water heaters.

After generating several proposed solutions and evaluating these based on the set criteria, there is further analysis of specific ones – an instantaneous gas-fired system, a hybrid system and an all-electric system – all based on the initial capital expenditure (CAPEX), plus 5-year forecasts regarding OPEX, carbon production, and lifecycle costs. A full breakdown of CAPEX, OPEX and carbon performance of all relevant systems is provided to demonstrate which one provides the optimal solution in accordance with the customer’s requirements.

The detailed analysis showed that the highest whole life value system that best aligned with the customers’ needs is the hybrid system.

Rinnai’s latest whitepaper is designed to inform building services consultants, main contractors, architects, specifiers and system designers on the wide range of technologies that can synergize together to create a long life efficient and cost-effective commercial DHW system.

RINNAI OFFERS CLEAR PATHWAYS TO LOWER CARBON & DECARBONISATION
PLUS CUSTOMER COST REDUCTIONS FOR COMMERCIAL, DOMESTIC &
OFF-GRID HEATING & HOT WATER DELIVERY

 

  • Rinnai’s range of decarbonising products – H1/H2/H3 – consists of hot water heating units in gas/BioLPG/DME, hydrogen ready units, electric instantaneous hot water heaters, electric storage cylinders and buffer vessels, a comprehensive range of heat pumps, solar, hydrogen-ready or natural gas in any configuration of hybrid formats for either residential or commercial applications. Rinnai’s H1/2/3 range of products and systems offer contractors, consultants and end users a range of efficient, robust and affordable low carbon/decarbonising appliances which create practical, economic and technically feasible solutions.
  • Rinnai is a world leading manufacturer of hot water heaters and produces over two million units a year, operating on each of the five continents. The brand has gained an established reputation for producing products that offer high performance, cost efficiency and extended working lives.
  • Rinnai products are UKCA certified, A-rated water efficiency, accessed through multiple fuel options and are available for purchase 24/7, 365 days a year. Any unit can be delivered to any UK site within 24 hours.
  • Rinnai offer carbon and cost comparison services that will calculate financial and carbon savings made when investing in a Rinnai system. Rinnai also provide a system design service that will suggest an appropriate system for the property in question.
  • Rinnai offer comprehensive training courses and technical support in all aspects of the water heating industry including detailed CPD’s.
  • The Rinnai range covers all forms of fuels and appliances currently available – electric, gas, hydrogen, BioLPG, DME solar thermal, low GWP heat pumps and electric water heaters More information can be found on Rinnai’s website and its “Help Me Choose” webpage.

 

CLICK HERE TO VISIT THE RINNAI WEBSITE

or HERE to EMAIL RINNAI

CLICK HERE For more information on the RINNAI product range

 

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Beyond the Replica: Why True Conservation Rooflights Are More Than Just Aesthetic  

by Paul Trace, Director of Stella Rooflights

 

Specifying rooflights for conservation projects is never a box-ticking exercise. In fact, the rooflight is often one of the most scrutinised elements in any planning application involving a listed building or conservation area. For architects, this makes the distinction between ‘conservation-style’ and truly conservation-appropriate rooflights more than just semantics, it’s the difference between a smooth planning process and a frustrating refusal.

In a market saturated with products that mimic the look of traditional rooflights, it’s tempting to focus solely on appearances. However, true conservation demands more than a surface-level resemblance. To meet both regulatory expectations and the design integrity of heritage architecture, rooflights must be carefully evaluated on their materiality, construction, detailing, and compatibility with historic building fabric.

 

The Illusion of Authenticity

Over the past decade, the term “conservation-style rooflight” has become a catch-all label, used liberally across the construction industry. Many modern products adopt basic visual cues (with varying degrees of success) – a black powder-coated frame, a central glazing bar, flush installation – to achieve the appearance of a traditional cast-iron rooflight.

However, when it comes to listed buildings and sensitive heritage sites, appearances aren’t everything. Conservation officers are increasingly wary of imitation products that fail to replicate the subtle nuances of historic detailing or that compromise the character of the building in material or proportion.

For example, many off-the-shelf conservation-style rooflights are based on aluminium frames, which while lightweight and cost-effective, may lack the structural authenticity and durability expected in historically sensitive contexts. Others use applied glazing bars, often stuck on or sandwiched between glass layers, which can distort sightlines and fail to replicate the depth and integrity of traditional rooflight design.

What looks convincing at first glance may not withstand the scrutiny of heritage specialists, nor deliver the long-term performance and finish that architects and clients expect.

 

Planning Officers Are Looking Closer

It’s worth noting that planning scrutiny of rooflight specifications has evolved in recent years. Conservation officers (quite rightly) no longer accept the simple addition of a glazing bar as a ticket to approval. There is greater awareness of construction methods, profiles, and proportions.

A flush fit is now considered a minimum requirement. Beyond that, officers may ask:

  • Does the product replicate the fine, slim steel profiles of a traditional Victorian rooflight?
  • Is the glazing bar structural or merely cosmetic?
  • Is the internal finish appropriate to the surrounding building materials?
  • Can the rooflight accommodate modern performance standards without compromising on historical accuracy?

Architects must be prepared to answer these questions with confidence. That means understanding more than just product codes, it means knowing how rooflights are made, how they sit in the roof, and what makes them genuinely compatible with heritage buildings.

 

Material Matters

A key differentiator between true conservation rooflights and their lookalike counterparts lies in materiality. Traditional rooflights were made from cast iron or steel, set directly into the roof structure, often without an internal lining.

Modern equivalents must meet today’s performance standards for insulation, condensation control, and weathering, but they should do so without sacrificing material authenticity. High-grade stainless steel, for instance, offers a corrosion-resistant, slim-profile alternative to traditional ferrous metals, maintaining visual continuity while improving longevity.

Likewise, internal linings play a more significant role than often appreciated. In many heritage projects timber is the predominant internal material, whether exposed rafters or timber-clad ceilings. A genuine conservation rooflight should offer a hardwood liner that visually complements its environment. Too often, architects discover too late that the internal finish of a rooflight is plastic or bare aluminium – jarring with the character of an exposed timber ceiling or heritage plasterwork. By then, it’s too late to change.

 

The Importance of Section and Profile

Historic rooflights were typically made with minimal framing, set flush or nearly flush with the roofing material, often with delicate, hand-fabricated profiles. Modern products that seek to replicate these rooflights must pay equal attention to proportion and section, especially as viewed from the exterior.

Deep or bulky sections can appear alien on a slate or tile roof. Capping details, edges, and visible hinges must all be considered in terms of visual weight. True conservation rooflights prioritise slenderness and shadow lines, creating a light touch that respects the building’s roofscape.

Glazing bars, when required, should ideally be structural, not simply aesthetic add-ons, and follow the same principles. A stuck-on bar may give the illusion of division but lacks the depth and articulation of traditional glazing.

 

Going Bespoke When Necessary

One of the challenges architects often face in conservation projects is the lack of standardisation in existing roof openings. Historic buildings rarely conform to modern module sizes, which can make off-the-shelf rooflights a poor fit, either visually or physically.

This is where a bespoke approach becomes not just desirable, but essential. Made-to-measure rooflights allow architects to match existing openings, align glazing bars with fenestration, or replicate original details more accurately. While bespoke manufacture may come with a higher upfront cost, it often pays dividends in planning success, aesthetic coherence, and long-term performance.

It also ensures that critical technical details – such as insulation values, ventilation options, or solar control glazing – are specified to meet modern requirements without compromise.

 

British Craftsmanship and Cultural Continuity

Another critical, but often overlooked, factor in conservation specification is the origin of manufacture. In an era of global supply chains, many so-called conservation rooflights are produced overseas, far from the cultural context and architectural traditions they aim to serve. While cost may be the driving factor, it’s worth asking: is it appropriate to outsource our built heritage to anonymous factories in distant countries, disconnected from the very history we’re trying to protect?

British manufacturing still plays a vital role in the conservation sector, offering not only quality craftsmanship and shorter supply chains, but a deeper understanding of British architectural heritage. Supporting UK-based fabrication helps maintain skills, ensure accountability, and uphold standards – all of which are crucial when working on buildings of historic or national importance.

For architects and specifiers, this goes beyond patriotism. It’s about stewardship. Choosing a UK-made conservation rooflight is a vote for quality, context, and continuity – values that lie at the heart of responsible conservation practice.

Beyond Aesthetics, Towards Integrity

For architects working on heritage and conservation projects, specifying a rooflight is not just a question of what looks right, it’s about what is right. True conservation rooflights respect the past not only in form, but in substance. They combine traditional aesthetics with modern performance, without resorting to superficial mimicry.

As planning departments become more rigorous, and as clients expect more from their investments in heritage, the pressure is on architects to make informed, intelligent choices. Choosing the right rooflight is a small but vital act of architectural integrity – one that respects both the spirit of the past and the demands of the present.

 

To find out more about genuine conservation rooflights for your project

contact the Stella Rooflight team on 

 

01794 745445 

or CLICK HERE TO email Stella Rooflight 

or CLICK HERE TO VISIT THE WEBSITE

 

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RINNAI PROVIDES TURNKEY HEAT PUMP DHW SOLUTION FOR LEADING NORTHWEST CALL CENTRE

 

Rinnai has provided a low carbon DHW (domestic hot water) Heat Pump solution, with Seasonal Performance Factors (SPF) Analysis, for a Northwest call center to upgrade its existing system to meet government guidance on carbon reduction. The existing hot water system was 2 x 20kW water heaters, each with 300L of hot water storage, and was working at an efficiency level of just 77%.

Gathered hot water usage data suggests a peak hot water usage of approximately 542L and a recovery period of less than 1 hour. Based on this information the Rinnai Technical Design Team were able to examine two options suited to the site.

  • H2 Hybrid Electric System: 3x 9kW R290 Heat Pumps + 1x 300L Heat Pump Storage + 1x 215L Electric Cylinder with 2x 9kW immersion ports
  • H3 Heat Pump System: 4x 9kW R290 Heat Pumps + 1x 500L Heat Pump Storage.

Because the site only had single phase power, Rinnai opted for multiple 9kW R290 heat pumps rather than one larger R290 commercial air-source heat pump, and the new Heat Pump-based system will now supply all the hot water to all call center staff using sinks, showers and wash hand basins.

The following data was used to enable the client to make an informed choice. The graphs analysis SPF (seasonal performance factors), Operational expenditure, carbon produced, Capital expenditure and the life cycle costs between the Rinnai H2 Hybrid water heating system and Rinnai’s H3 Heat Pump system. The H2 hybrid system is represented in blue whilst the H3 heat pump system is represented in green.

The SPF graph portrays that when taking the entire system efficiency into account, the H2 Hybrid Electric system has an average SPF of 2.50, while the H3 Heat Pump System has an average SPF of 2.72. The key reason for the drop in efficiency of the H2 system is the inclusion of electric cylinders, as opposed to generating all heated water via higher efficiency heat pumps.

The operating expenditure graph shows the H2 hybrid system always has a higher OPEX than the H3 heat pump system across a 10-year period. The H2 system will cost approximately £52,705, while the H3 system will cost around £10,000 less at £42,405, considering a 19.5% decrease in operating costs. The H2 hybrid system requires more grid sourced electricity to be purchased because the efficiency of the electric immersion cylinder is less than the R290 Heat Pump.

When comparing the carbon produced across a 10-year period the H2 system will emit 20,584kg of CO2 whilst the H3 system will emit just 16,562kg of CO2. This demonstrates a 24.3% decrease in carbon production.

CAPEX costs associated with the H2 hybrid electric system will cost £23,245, the H3 heat pump system will cost £26,754, a 13% increase. The reason for the increase is that heat pumps can cost more than electric immersion cylinders. This gives the customer an option of reducing initial expenditure if budget constraints exist.

When combining the CAPEX and OPEX data, lifecycle costs over a 10-year period can be forecast. This reinforced that the H3 Heat Pump system will cost less over its lifetime compared to the H2 Hybrid Electric System. The H3 Heat Pump system will save the customer £6,791 over a 10-year period and will take just two years to become comparable with the H2 Hybrid Electric option.

Sign up for a free CIBSE accreditation SPF CPD today! https://www.rinnai-uk.co.uk/training/cibse-cpd-training-enrolment

Rinnai understands the UK customer requirement for cost effective and robust appliances that consistently deliver clean hot water and heating to domestic and commercial buildings across the UK. Rinnai are committed to offering UK customers low cost and practical solutions that cover all energy options.

 

RINNAI OFFERS CLEAR PATHWAYS TO LOWER CARBON & DECARBONISATION
PLUS CUSTOMER COST REDUCTIONS FOR COMMERCIAL, DOMESTIC &
OFF-GRID HEATING & HOT WATER DELIVERY

 

  • Rinnai’s range of decarbonising products – H1/H2/H3 – consists of hot water heating units in gas/BioLPG/DME, hydrogen ready units, electric instantaneous hot water heaters, electric storage cylinders and buffer vessels, a comprehensive range of heat pumps, solar, hydrogen-ready or natural gas in any configuration of hybrid formats for either residential or commercial applications. Rinnai’s H1/2/3 range of products and systems offer contractors, consultants and end users a range of efficient, robust and affordable low carbon/decarbonising appliances which create practical, economic and technically feasible solutions.
  • Rinnai is a world leading manufacturer of hot water heaters and produces over two million units a year, operating on each of the five continents. The brand has gained an established reputation for producing products that offer high performance, cost efficiency and extended working lives.
  • Rinnai products are UKCA certified, A-rated water efficiency, accessed through multiple fuel options and are available for purchase 24/7, 365 days a year. Any unit can be delivered to any UK site within 24 hours.
  • Rinnai offer carbon and cost comparison services that will calculate financial and carbon savings made when investing in a Rinnai system. Rinnai also provide a system design service that will suggest an appropriate system for the property in question.
  • Rinnai offer comprehensive training courses and technical support in all aspects of the water heating industry including detailed CPD’s.
  • The Rinnai range covers all forms of fuels and appliances currently available – electric, gas, hydrogen, BioLPG, DME solar thermal, low GWP heat pumps and electric water heaters More information can be found on Rinnai’s website and its “Help Me Choose” webpage.

 

CLICK HERE TO VISIT THE RINNAI WEBSITE

or HERE to EMAIL RINNAI

CLICK HERE For more information on the RINNAI product range

 

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UK HVAC & HEAT PUMP SKILLS SHORTAGE – WHERE DO WE GO FROM HERE?

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Rinnai’s Tony Gittings analyses the advent of a shortage of skilled labour in the HVAC industry and specifically in heat pump installation, as well as the wider energy industry. The effect of a rising skills shortage on large infrastructure projects and national NetZero objectives may take a heavy toll.

 

A national skills shortage in the HVAC, heat pump installation and wider UK energy industry is a growing issue that needs close attention as it could have a very serious impact on NetZero objectives. Internal and external issues impacting the drive to carbon neutrality are usually given media and government attention in priority to the more mundane topic of training the next generation of skilled installers and contractors. One area directly related is the shortage of training and experienced heat pump installers and engineers.

The skills shortage affects two key areas that are vital components of the drive towards UK carbon neutrality. Progress in domestic and commercial heat pump installations as well as large infrastructure projects is being negatively influenced by a lack of trained professionals.

However, the number of qualified heat pump engineers has increased from just 3,000 in 2022 to 7,800 in 2023. In the first 9 months of 2024 a further 7,000 had completed a recognised qualification. For the UK to realise NetZero objectives it is estimated by the UK Heat Pump Association that a total of 33,700 fully approved heat pump engineers is required – with at least 27,000 needed for 2028.

Despite the rise in UK heat pump installers further problems relating to skills being unused due to a lack of domestic demand is apparent. In a recent article, Charlotte Lee, chief executive of the Heat Pump Association, said

“more people are training to become heat pump installers’ but warned that increased consumer demand is needed “to encourage trained individuals to become active in the workforce”.

“Interest in the training is growing. However, there is a gap between the number of trained individuals and active heat pump installers working in the market with around 39 per cent of those who complete a training course currently not going on to install heat pumps.”

 

Additional factors that have influenced heat pump workforce size projections include poor government support, retirement and senior heating engineers being reluctant to retrain. There are many obstacles in attracting qualified UK heat pump engineers and in the heat pump market that makes for installations being problematic.

Suspending or even cancelling large infrastructural projects due to a lack of recognised skilled labour is arguably a bigger challenge than attracting heat pump engineers.  Huge electrical grid upgrade projects face being postponed due to a gap in skilled workers able to carry out required tasks. There are numerous projects across the UK that centre on upgrading the electrical transmission grid.

To satisfy future electrical supply and demand the UK National Grid has announced plans for the “Great Grid Upgrade.” The national grid requires adapting due to a transition away from fossil fuels through electrification. The current UK grid was designed to transport coal fired energy generated from geographically positioned power stations.

The total cost of the upgrade is thought to be around £16 Billion (Fund Calibre, Yardley, 2024) and will include grid connections to offshore wind and rural solar installations that allows for the easy transfer of renewable power to all corners of Britain.

Further electrical grid connections and upgrade projects are being pursued that will also aid in the access of renewable energy to the UK electrical grid resulting in lower customer costs. The UK and Denmark have collaborated in constructing a link – the Viking Line’ – that stretches for 475 miles joining Lincolnshire and southern Jutland.

The Viking Link required £1.7 billion of investment and is capable of powering 2.5 million UK households. National Grid estimate that the new connection will result in £500 millions of savings for UK customers in its first 10 years by enabling a clear path of trade that compliments seasonal demand and price between the two countries. (all info available at National Grid website).

The UK and Netherlands governments have also announced plans to construct a submarine interconnection that will allow both countries to transfer and trade clean offshore wind generated electricity. The Lion Link will produce 1.8GW of energy – enough to power 2.5 million homes and is due to be operational around 2030. (Info available at National grid website)

Scottish Power will also upgrade their transmission network over the next 10 years costing £5.4 billion. These upgrades will contribute 80-85GW of clean renewable electricity to the British grid.

The UK Government is committed to decarbonising the UK electrical grid by 2030, hence the huge levels of labour and financial investment. For all this work to be completed a well-motivated and professional workforce is essential.

An article in green energy and environment reveals the gaps in skills and low morale inside the UK electrical sector. A workforce survey carried out by the public and private sector trade union Prospect demonstrates the impression held by industry professionals.

According to feedback from recipients 82% of workers inside the electrical sector believe staffing levels are too low, whilst 69% believe there is a tangible skills shortage. Ecological website Environmental Journal included the following quote from their 2024 article on the same topic.

 

‘Upgrading the UK’s electricity networks must be a national priority. However, the much-needed infrastructure rollout described in this report will not happen without a skilled workforce to plan, build, operate and maintain it,’ said Sue Ferns, Senior Deputy General Secretary of Prospect.

 

For the UK to encourage domestic and commercial heat pump installation as well as complete large and meaningful infrastructure jobs, a well-motivated and professional workforce must be in place. Without a skilled selection of workers, the UK will find progress in achieving NetZero targets substantially harder and the switch away from fossil fuels much more difficult. Training a new generation of electrical and heating engineers is integral to creating growth in a carbon reduced society.

Rinnai will continue to observe UK and international energy news movement and report any information that could impact energy options or appliances.  Rinnai is keen on providing all customers with a wealth of knowledge that encourages better, more informed, decision making.

RINNAI OFFERS CLEAR PATHWAYS TO LOWER CARBON & DECARBONISATION

PLUS CUSTOMER COST REDUCTIONS FOR COMMERCIAL, DOMESTIC &

OFF-GRID HEATING & HOT WATER DELIVERY

  • Rinnai’s range of decarbonising products – H1/H2/H3 – consists of hot water heating units in gas/BioLPG/DME, hydrogen ready units, electric instantaneous hot water heaters, electric storage cylinders and buffer vessels, a comprehensive range of heat pumps, solar, hydrogen-ready or natural gas in any configuration of hybrid formats for either residential or commercial applications. Rinnai’s H1/2/3 range of products and systems offer contractors, consultants and end users a range of efficient, robust and affordable low carbon/decarbonising appliances which create practical, economic and technically feasible solutions.
  • Rinnai is a world leading manufacturer of hot water heaters and produces over two million units a year, operating on each of the five continents. The brand has gained an established reputation for producing products that offer high performance, cost efficiency and extended working lives.
  • Rinnai products are UKCA certified, A-rated water efficiency, accessed through multiple fuel options and are available for purchase 24/7, 365 days a year. Any unit can be delivered to any UK site within 24 hours.
  • Rinnai offer carbon and cost comparison services that will calculate financial and carbon savings made when investing in a Rinnai system. Rinnai also provide a system design service that will suggest an appropriate system for the property in question.
  • Rinnai offer comprehensive training courses and technical support in all aspects of the water heating industry including detailed CPD’s.
  • The Rinnai range covers all forms of fuels and appliances currently available – electric, gas, hydrogen, BioLPG, DME solar thermal, low GWP heat pumps and electric water heaters More information can be found on Rinnai’s website and its “Help Me Choose” webpage.

 

CLICK HERE TO VISIT THE RINNAI WEBSITE

or HERE to EMAIL RINNAI

CLICK HERE For more information on the RINNAI product range

 

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Zumtobel Luminaires Elevate Modern Aesthetic in Premium Head Office

 

In collaboration with Gilbert & Stamper, Zumtobel and its sister brand, Thorn Lighting, have created a bespoke lighting scheme for Oscar Acoustics’ Headquarters, enhancing the building’s industrial aesthetic, supporting its vision for an inspiring workspace that combines style with sustainability.

Entering the Oscar Acoustics Headquarters can be an almost immersive experience: The interplay of bold colours, carefully selected materials, art objects, light and music creates an extravagant, inspiring atmosphere that immediately captivates the visitor. The perfect place to do business and to bring Oscar’s acoustic and soundproofing solutions to life. Zumtobel has equipped the newly built company Headquarters with state-of-the-art, high-quality lighting: The wide product range from PANOS infinity to TECTON provides an aesthetic solution that complements the ‘industrial’ interior design and enables optimum user guidance, high functionality and energy-efficient use of light.

“Our client wants to inspire. They love to create a truly unique experience for partners and customers who visit Oscar Acoustics,” says Nick Hughes, Sales Project Leader at Zumtobel UK & Ireland. “Our main objective as a lighting supplier was therefore to really understand the corporate vision of Oscar Acoustics and the emotions that surround its Headquarters. In collaboration with the electricians at Gilbert & Stamper, we translated this into a harmonious lighting concept that supports the London chic and rock-star-atmosphere of the building.”

Industrial character, dark luminaires

Situated on a former cement works site, the Oscar Acoustics Headquarters consists not only of offices and showrooms, but also serves as a warehouse and logistics centre. The two buildings feature dark metal panels, modern black window frames, brick walls – both inside and out – and high, open ceilings that expose the building infrastructure. To support the modern, industrial character of the interiors, luminaires with dark finishes and a high-end look were key for Oscar Acoustics’ Managing Director, Ben Hancock.

Specifications that perfectly match the TECTON continuous-row lighting system from Zumtobel. It is installed not just in Oscar Acoustics’ open-plan offices, but also in the warehouse area: while the latter uses black TECTON C luminaires, the offices are equipped with TECTON MIREL tunableWhite, which enable dynamic lighting schedules and promote the well-being of employees.

Flexibility first: Why the customer chose TECTON

“The customer was absolutely delighted with TECTON black. It perfectly matches the metallic details of the interior concept,” says Zumtobel Sales Project Leader Nick Hughes. “They were also very pleased with the flexibility and future-proof technology of the TECTON continuous-row lighting system: installation is super easy and simple; luminaires and spotlights can be added wherever required. As the next generations of the energy-efficient TECTON evolve, they can be retrofitted directly without tools, helping to further ensure Oscar Acoustics meet their ambitious sustainability and energy efficiency goals.”

The BREEAM Excellent and EPC A+ ratings for the Headquarters, place the building above the Net Zero Carbon Standard, proving the company’s commitment to environmental protection. The state-of-the-art luminaires and the LITECOM lighting management system from Zumtobel support the efficient utilisation of lighting energy. The natural light entering the Headquarters, is harvested and the luminaires are automatically adjusted to seasonal and daylight-dependent lighting conditions, resulting in energy savings of at least 25 – 30 per cent compared to conventional lighting systems without control.

Light and acoustics contribute to a sense of well-being

The LITECOM system also enables individual selection of the light colour and intensity.

“The customer can create dynamic lighting scenes,” says Nick Hughes, Zumtobel Sales Project Leader. “They can even choose the light colours to match the occasion – whether it be for Christmas or Halloween.”

Customised, innovative and tailored to the needs of its employees: It’s not just the lighting solutions that contribute to the feel-good atmosphere. The company Headquarters are of course equipped with Oscar’s broad range of acoustic finishes – from sprays, ceiling trims and insulation to plaster. As both headquarters and showroom, they create the perfect acoustic environment for visitors and employees alike, supporting Oscar Acoustics’ quest for well-being.

Aesthetic lighting for a fashionable environment

In addition to the numerous functional aspects of the Zumtobel lighting solution, aesthetics was also of great importance. As Oscar Acoustics did not want an off-the-shelf lighting solution, but one that really suited the individual room requirements, Zumtobel developed numerous creative solutions: The rectangular SLOTLIGHT II luminaires directly above Managing Director Ben Hancock’s desk complement the already chic office environment. On entering the reception area, visitors are greeted by PANOS infinity suspended spotlights, which create a moon effect: producing a pleasant, glare-free brightness.

Lighting the Full Experience- from the inside out

To complement the interior lighting scheme, Thorn Lighting’s luminaires have been thoughtfully integrated to enhance the building’s exterior. The Aquaforce Pro fixtures illuminate the roof spaces, while Black Areaflood Pro II floodlights provide powerful lighting around the building’s perimeter. The car park benefits from the Isaro Pro II, ensuring a well-lit and safe environment for visitors and staff. Additionally, Piaza II LED lights accentuate the external walls, bringing a cohesive and polished look to the outdoor areas that mirrors the sophistication of the interior.

“Well designed, well thought out and innovation-led: Oscar Acoustics’ combines office and industrial applications to create a truly inspiring workspace,” sums up Zumtobel Sales Project Leader Nick Hughes.  Ben Hancock Managing Director at Oscar Acoustics comments, Lighting is almost as important as the architecture itself, when creating a warm and inviting space.  Design is extremely important to me, so I took great care in selecting lighting that not only performed well but also looked the part and fitted with my vision. Zumtobel were able to give me this with their impressive range. We are extremely pleased with the result.“

CLICK HERE

To find out more about the Zumtobel lighting solutions

and for further information on any of the products or to read the full case study online

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RINNAI INTRODUCES NEW INNOVATIONS IN UNVENTED WATER HEATERS & INDIRECT STORAGE SOLUTIONS

 

Rinnai is introducing a wide and comprehensive selection of unvented water heaters to add to and complement the existing range of cylinders solutions.

Key features of the Rinnai unvented water heaters are:

  • Venturi Technology:The units use patented Venturi technology to minimise expansion, ensuring minimal ongoing maintenance and optimal performance.
  • High Efficiency:Engineered to give maximum energy efficiency.
  • Durability:Built with high-quality Duplex stainless steel, the cylinders are designed to last, giving long-term reliability.
  • Ease of Installation:With a user-friendly design, the installation process is straightforward, saving time and effort.
  • Safety First:Equipped with advanced safety features, including a factory-fitted 7bar/90ºC pressure and temperature relief valve.
  • Eco-Friendly:Featuring CFC/HCFC-free thermal insulation, our cylinders are designed with sustainability in mind.

Rinnai continuously expands and updates its entire product offering to include all fuels and appliances for installation as stand-alone units or as part of hybrid systems for larger commercial sites.

The range is available in a wide selection of capacities – from 80 – 500 litres and in the following model types – built in expansion, Solar, Slimline, SuperSlimline, Horizontal, Heat Pump and in Heat Pump 28.

Rinnai’s extensive product range includes a wide selection of electric technologies. Rinnai’s Infinit-E range is an optional three-phase all-electric water storage heater for commercial hot water applications.

All units are fitted with between one and six titanium elements. The KW rating of the Infinit-E range is scalable from 12kw to 72kw ensuring that all units are suitable for a wide variety of applications. All electrical elements can be fitted to a single-phase supply, should site limitations dictate.

Each element within the appliance range has its own controllable thermostat with a temperature range of between 49 and 90 degrees Celsius. All elements are fuse protected and there is no need for expensive sacrificial anodes due to a tough stainless-steel build.

Each cylinder unit in either unvented or indirect version is manufactured with stainless steel adding durability and enabling extensive warranties. The use of stainless steel also makes the Infinit-E range lightweight and easily manoeuvrable and handled when compared to glass-lined variants. The empty weight of the Infinit-E is 54kg maximum.

Rinnai offer sizing and design support for all heating and hot water heat systems – simply contact the design team today for support on your latest project

OR HERE FOR THE

 

UK energy strategists believe that clean and sustainable electrification is presently one of the best modes of reducing carbon emissions, maximise efficiencies and to also lower end-user customer costs.

 Rinnai is determined to offer UK customers assorted options of carbon reducing technology that ensures an improved healthy lifestyle. Rinnai is also keen on informing all UK customers in major changes and developments concerning the international energy market that may affect purchase or power options in the near and far future.

RINNAI OFFERS CLEAR PATHWAYS TO LOWER CARBON & DECARBONISATION

PLUS CUSTOMER COST REDUCTIONS FOR COMMERCIAL, DOMESTIC &

OFF-GRID HEATING & HOT WATER DELIVERY

 

  • Rinnai’s range of decarbonising products – H1/H2/H3 – consists of hot water heating units in gas/BioLPG/DME, hydrogen ready units, electric instantaneous hot water heaters, electric storage cylinders and buffer vessels, a comprehensive range of heat pumps, solar, hydrogen-ready or natural gas in any configuration of hybrid formats for either residential or commercial applications. Rinnai’s H1/2/3 range of products and systems offer contractors, consultants and end users a range of efficient, robust and affordable low carbon/decarbonising appliances which create practical, economic and technically feasible solutions.
  • Rinnai is a world leading manufacturer of hot water heaters and produces over two million units a year, operating on each of the five continents. The brand has gained an established reputation for producing products that offer high performance, cost efficiency and extended working lives.
  • Rinnai products are UKCA certified, A-rated water efficiency, accessed through multiple fuel options and are available for purchase 24/7, 365 days a year. Any unit can be delivered to any UK site within 24 hours.
  • Rinnai offer carbon and cost comparison services that will calculate financial and carbon savings made when investing in a Rinnai system. Rinnai also provide a system design service that will suggest an appropriate system for the property in question.
  • Rinnai offer comprehensive training courses and technical support in all aspects of the water heating industry including detailed CPD’s.
  • The Rinnai range covers all forms of fuels and appliances currently available – electric, gas, hydrogen, BioLPG, DME solar thermal, low GWP heat pumps and electric water heaters More information can be found on Rinnai’s website and its “Help Me Choose” webpage.

 

CLICK HERE TO VISIT THE RINNAI WEBSITE

or HERE to EMAIL RINNAI

CLICK HERE For more information on the RINNAI product range

 

 

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RINNAI AIR SOURCE HEAT PUMPS SOLUTION FOR HEATING & HOT WATER TO SURREY SPORTS PAVILION

 

Rinnai has given a local community’s much-loved sports pavilion a replacement DHW system which upgrades from its old cylinder system and provides the same peak-time capacity with significantly reduced energy costs along with much lower emissions through utilising the Rinnai R290 heat pump system.

Rinnai offered a choice of solutions all with capital, operational and carbon modelling as part of the offering, so that the decision makers could select the optimum solution for their needs. Based upon the data the site specifically requested an Air-Source Heat Pump replacement.

As a part of the bespoke design service offered by Rinnai three possible solutions were put forward, each with differing recovery times ranging from between two and four hours, with the 2000L in storage staying consistent with the old system’s capacity.

After full consultations with the site and the contractor, the system chosen was the 40kW R290 air source heat pump system. Despite the two other possible systems offering quicker recovery periods the client opted for one single heat pump unit. An additional factor governing the decision was the fact that the 40kW R290 system, incorporating 2 x1000 L cylinders, emitted less carbon and was more economical to run in the long term

Cumulative Running Costs (OPEX) comparing a H1 and a H3 system for DHW

This graph shows the cumulative running costs of each of the three possible systems across a 5-year period. As shown from the data the original system is significantly more expensive to run compared to the H3 systems. With a £46,772.13 or 170% increase compared to the 23kW R290 systems and a £48,251.10 or 186% increase compared to the 40kW R290 system by year 5.

The successful implementation of the Rinnai R290 air source heat pump system at the Surrey Sports Pavilion demonstrates the effectiveness of Rinnai’s bespoke design services and complete packaged solutions. By upgrading to a more efficient and environmentally friendly system, the pavilion now enjoys reduced carbon emissions, while maintaining the necessary capacity for peak-time demand. This project highlights Rinnai’s commitment to providing tailored solutions that meet the specific needs of all type of buildings to experience this service for your next project.

Comparison of Energy Prices of National Gas and National Grid Electricity Between 2025 & 2050

Energy Prices of National Gas and National Electricity Grid

UK energy strategists believe that clean and sustainable electrification is presently one of the best modes of reducing carbon emissions, maximise efficiencies and to also lower end-user customer costs.

 Rinnai is determined to offer UK customers assorted options of carbon reducing technology that ensures an improved healthy lifestyle. Rinnai is also keen on informing all UK customers in major changes and developments concerning the international energy market that may affect purchase or power options in the near and far future.

 

RINNAI OFFERS CLEAR PATHWAYS TO LOWER CARBON & DECARBONISATION

PLUS CUSTOMER COST REDUCTIONS FOR COMMERCIAL, DOMESTIC &

OFF-GRID HEATING & HOT WATER DELIVERY

 

  • Rinnai’s range of decarbonising products – H1/H2/H3 – consists of hot water heating units in gas/BioLPG/DME, hydrogen ready units, electric instantaneous hot water heaters, electric storage cylinders and buffer vessels, a comprehensive range of heat pumps, solar, hydrogen-ready or natural gas in any configuration of hybrid formats for either residential or commercial applications. Rinnai’s H1/2/3 range of products and systems offer contractors, consultants and end users a range of efficient, robust and affordable low carbon/decarbonising appliances which create practical, economic and technically feasible solutions.
  • Rinnai is a world leading manufacturer of hot water heaters and produces over two million units a year, operating on each of the five continents. The brand has gained an established reputation for producing products that offer high performance, cost efficiency and extended working lives.
  • Rinnai products are UKCA certified, A-rated water efficiency, accessed through multiple fuel options and are available for purchase 24/7, 365 days a year. Any unit can be delivered to any UK site within 24 hours.
  • Rinnai offer carbon and cost comparison services that will calculate financial and carbon savings made when investing in a Rinnai system. Rinnai also provide a system design service that will suggest an appropriate system for the property in question.
  • Rinnai offer comprehensive training courses and technical support in all aspects of the water heating industry including detailed CPD’s.
  • The Rinnai range covers all forms of fuels and appliances currently available – electric, gas, hydrogen, BioLPG, DME solar thermal, low GWP heat pumps and electric water heaters More information can be found on Rinnai’s website and its “Help Me Choose” webpage.

 

CLICK HERE TO VISIT THE RINNAI WEBSITE

or HERE to EMAIL RINNAI

CLICK HERE For more information on the RINNAI product range

 

 

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Kingspan Introduces Mineral Wool Pipe Insulation

 

Kingspan Technical Insulation has launched Kingspan K-Roc Pipe Insulation,

an A2L/A2-s1,d0 rated pipe insulation suitable for use on HVAC and building services pipework. 

The product comprises a mineral wool insulation core with a reinforced aluminium foil facing and is available in a range of sizes for various pipe diameters. The insulation core features longitudinal fibres which provide both rigidity and thermal performance, allowing the product to achieve a thermal conductivity of 0.033 W/mK at 10 °C.

The technology used to shape the pipe sections ensures the round shape of the internal diameter is maintained and adheres closely to the pipework. The shape of the internal diameter is unaffected by loss of material at the assembly cut line — helping to maintain a continuous layer of insulation around the pipe and preventing potential thermal bridges.

The product has been designed to allow easy handling and installation. It is supplied in 1.2 m lengths — allowing large sections of pipework to be insulated in a single fix. Its reinforced aluminium foil facing and wide self-adhesive closing lap also makes the assembly process both quick and secure.

In addition, the product is supported by Kingspan’s Technical Advisory service providing guidance for designers, specifiers, consulting and mechanical engineers, mechanical and electrical M&E contractors, thermal insulation contractors’ as well as building services and facilities managers.

Visit the Kingspan Technical Insulation Website for more information

CLICK HERE

OR click here to email Kingspan

Tel: +44 (0) 1457 890 400 –  Pipeline Technical Advisory Service: 0808 168 7363

 

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