AQUABLOC: THE HUMIDITY-DEFYING TILE FOR BRIGHT AND FRESH INTERIORS

In environments where humidity and heat reign supreme, maintaining a fresh and clean interior can be a constant battle. From spas to shower areas and other damp spaces, moisture can quickly take a toll on the building’s interior, leading to discolouration, warping and potential mould growth.

 

At Zentia, we understand the unique challenges faced by businesses that operate in these conditions, which is why we are proud of Aquabloc – our toughest ceiling tile that defies humidity and heat to keep interiors looking pristine for years to come.

Made from hydrated calcium silicate, the Aquabloc tile is a true game-changer with 100% Relative Humidity (RH) performance. This means it can endure even the most challenging environments without comprising its structural integrity or aesthetic appeal.

Whether you require a ceiling tile solution for a luxurious spa, shower facilities, or any other facility where humidity and heat are a constant, Aquabloc is the perfect answer for creating interiors that remain bright, fresh and inviting.

 

Easy Installation, Stunning Results

In addition to its exceptional performance, Aquabloc offers an easy-to-install board edge, making it simple to incorporate into any new or existing grid system. Once installed, the white ceiling tiles can instantly elevate the ambiance of interiors, adding a sense of light and height.

 

Seamless Specification

Specification with Zentia has never been easier. A team of dedicated Architectural and Design Consultants throughout the UK are ready to help with exploring design concepts or finalising specifications. You can also see us at Material Source Studio in Manchester or Glasglow, a one-of-a-kind hub of design inspiration for architects.

Zentia are partners with NBS, a free-to-use construction product platform that allows you to quickly and easily find, select and specify our products. This means you can find all of our products on NBS, with accurate and up to date specification data, making project design simple.

 

Invest in Longevity and Aesthetics

By choosing Aquabloc, you are not just investing in a ceiling tile, you are investing in the longevity and refinement of your interior spaces. Say goodbye to the constant cycle of replacement and repair, and enjoy even more peace of mind with Zentia’s 30 year warranty when used with a Zentia grid system.  Say hello to a fresh, inviting atmosphere that prevents humidity and heat from dictating the look and feel of interior spaces. Embrace the power of Aquabloc and experience the difference a humidity-defying tile can make.

CLICK HERE

To find out more, or update your sample library

 

 

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High-end installer, Chris Halifax, makes it personal with Schlüter

Chris Halifax of CTH Creations, has carved himself a reputation for his incredible attention to detail and quest for perfection in all his work. He regularly shares project updates on his social media, attracting thousands of followers. In his own words, Chris creates “unique and one-off bathroom designs which turn dreams into reality with the highest of standards.”

And for all things tile protection, Chris’ go-to supplier is Schlüter-Systems – the largest and most innovative manufacturer of system solutions for the function, protection and decoration of tile and natural stone in the world. The key advantage of specifying Schlüter-Systems is the opportunity to utilise the wealth of experience gained by the UK team over the last 30 years providing integrated system solutions for the bathroom designer and installer, developer, architect and specifier. 

Having completed various stunning bathrooms over the years, Chris recently turned his attention to his own home, an 1840’s, two-bedroom cottage in Holmfirth. Chris doubled the size of the property with an extension, which included a luxury en-suite, to the side and rear. After already working with Schlüter-Systems products for around three years, Chris had no hesitation in using them in his own home,

“I always install the highest quality products and have found Schlüter products extremely reliable and easy to work with; I find that the premium quality of Schlüter products is worth every penny.”

Chris Halifax (right) being presented the Best Technical Installation award, Behind The Tiles Awards 2023, by Martin Chappell (left) from Schlüter-Systems

Treating his own en-suite as a chance to showcase his fine work and expertise, Chris fitted various Schlüter products, including Schlüter-DITRA-HEAT. Installed throughout the entire floor area, including the shower, the DITRA-HEAT Peel & Stick version was used for speedy installation and the elimination of cold spots. Two areas of the walls, where the towel rails and robe hooks are placed, are heated so that the family can enjoy super warm towels!

Although any electric underfloor heating system costs money to run, Chris recommends finding a running schedule for when the occupants are most likely to be in the space.

 

“In reality, people are not in the bathroom all of the time. I run my system from 5.30am to 9am in the morning when we’re getting up and ready and then from 6pm to 11pm in the evening too. I have the temperature set at 19°C and it costs me around £20 a week to run. With the Schlüter thermostats, I can see the cost and energy output so there are no surprises with my energy bills.”

For added stunning touches, the modern LED-technology Schlüter-LIPROTEC was used in the form of prefabricated niches, with Chris adding an extra LED strip so that both shelves were illuminated. Chris also created a feature by running LIPROTEC around the bottom of the walls.

Chris continues to use Schlüter as

“it’s important that the products are top quality; but the people in a business are also important. I’ve always had fantastic support from the Schlüter team. They are knowledgeable, easy to get on with and can’t do enough to help me if I have any questions.”

CLICK HERE for further information

or call 01530 813396

 

 

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CHARACTERFUL CAST IRON RADIATOR – MEET THE HENLEY

Elaborate and stylish in its design is the new Henley from The Radiator Company, one of the largest suppliers of designer radiators in the UK and Ireland. This ornate gothic-style cast iron radiator adds traditional elegance to any interior scheme, with all the contemporary benefits of a modern radiator.

 

Featuring a gently curved top detail, intricate embellishment and footed ends, with the option of cast feet, Henley is a 3-column radiator that offers a sectional design approach. This means it can be made to fit non-standard spaces.

 

Available as 81mm sections and in three heights; 470mm, 570mm and 765mm, the Henley offers true flexibility with the possibility of joining up to 40 sections for larger spaces.

 

Focused on replicating style throughout the eras, Richard Lister, National Sales Manager at The Radiator Company said:

“The exquisite detailing on this new addition to our collection will elevate a space immediately, either to create a stand-alone style statement or to add a period feature to a room. Cast iron is a material that delivers a high-quality heating option that will stand the test of time. The best part is, the Henley is a ‘made to order’ product and can be tailored to a project’s requirements.”

 

Bold or traditional colour

To complete an interior scheme, the Henley can be finished in over 188 RAL colours. Also new, are 10 classic cast iron colours, specially selected to reflect the heritage and traditions of cast iron in the Victorian era to the modern day. Two other exquisite alternatives are the Industrial and Burnished Finishes, a process that involves multiple stages and is created by hand in the UK.

 

For heritage projects, The Radiator Company also offers the Henley in any one of the Farrow & Ball® or Little Greene® colours, using genuine paint from these leading brands. This especially works well where continuity is required throughout an interior scheme.

 

Efficient hydronic radiator

Capable of producing a high heat output, the Henley fits on to a hydronic heating system. The section output ranges from 324 to 532 (BTUs at Δt 50ºc) with a maximum working pressure of 2.5 bar and maximum working temperature of 95°C.

 

Tested to ensure full compliance, the Henley is CE/UKCA approved and certified to BS EN442. Additionally, this enables specifiers and installers to compare, fairly, the heat outputs of one radiator against another, to ensure it is fit for purpose. This specific model also comes with a 10-year guarantee for end client peace of mind.

 

The Radiator Company is the design-led manufacturing brand of the IRSAP Group. It offers special finishes, colour, different sizes and formats of radiator, making it the UK’s largest selection – with thousands of combinations to create the perfect radiator.

To see full details and specify using the online builder, PLEASE CLICK HERE

 

 

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HEAT PUMPS – IS THE INDUSTRY STANDARD UP TO STANDARD?

LEADING SCOTTISH UNIVERSITY ACCOMMODATION BLOCK

SWITCHES HEAT PUMP TO RINNAI HYBRID SYSTEM

CLICK HERE

to ask us a question and learn more about RINNAI HYBRIDS TODAY

 

 

One of the oldest and most revered of Scottish universities has up graded its hot water supply in a large accommodation block to incorporate a Rinnai Hybrid system which instantly rectified problems with an existing heat pump configuration.

 

The project originally began in September 2022 to provide all the hot water needs of the 102-bedroom accommodation block via a two unit heat pump system with a total output of 60kW. The specification was changed, as these things mysteriously do happen sometimes, and it was reduced to just ONE 30 kW heat pump. The result proved totally inadequate for the demands of hot water for the bedrooms, common areas and communal kitchen.

 

Rinnai was approached to rectify the issue – and redesigned the system. The optimal solution was decided upon after considering the practical, economical and practical factors of the site. Therefore, a Hybrid heat pump and gas-fired system consisting of two I2HY20 Hydrogen blend ready continuous flow water heaters – in turnkey package format – and including a cylinder and expansion vessel. The new system was installed in January 2023 and, since then, there have been no problems with the supply of continuous temperature controlled hot water demand 24/7.

 

Rinnai offer design support that considers the nuances of all sites and produce a solution that considers capital expenditure, operational expenditure, and carbon modelling.

 

Comments Pete Seddon, Technical Manager for Rinnai, “The original schematics seemed to have no real provision to maintain the water temperature within the system and this only came to light AFTER the original installation. It relied on storage temp and recovery. Plus, the added atmospheric conditions on site – the heat pump performance reduced working at an outside temp of just -5 degrees and, of course, Scotland does have some harsh weather in winter.”

 

The Rinnai Sensei N 1600i – gas-fired continuous flow water heater – is the first ever continuous flow hot water heating unit manufactured with stainless steel heat exchangers which offers a greatly extended working life at optimum performance. Added to this are the market leading extended warranties, that accompany these hydrogen blend-ready appliances. The Rinnai N1600i offers a more compact, enhanced combustion design that allows for easier installation, superior operational performance as well as ease of serviceability.

 

On site at this Scottish university the two N1600s are capable of delivering almost 2000 litres of temperature accurate continuous flow hot water suitable for commercial applications, the N1600i giving 954 litres per hour.

 

All the range is also low-NOx, and the futureproofed continuous flow water heater utilises Rinnai’s patented advanced burner technology with a 13-1 turn down ratio – the largest on the market – with extremely quiet operation. Integral controls on the units enable the water heater to achieve high efficiencies because of advanced burner control and high modulation ranges. This wide range of modulation means that energy usage is completely optimised as the water heater through smart inbuilt controls will only heat the water to the temperature required thus preserving energy.

Rinnai also offer a complete Technical Support Service to include a FREE design service that incorporates the ideal heating and hot water system suited specifically to the customer’s property requirements and demands. A hot water and heating system designed to the specific needs of any site or application ensures that savings can be made in purchase and running costs, as well reducing carbon emissions. 

CLICK HERE TO SELECT YOUR COURSE

 

Rinnai’s  range of products include domestic and commercial heat pumps that offer immediate property decarbonisation. Rinnai is determined to provide UK customers with cost effective low carbon solutions towards residential & commercial hot water and heating provision.

 

RINNAI OFFERS CLEAR PATHWAYS TO LOWER CARBON AND DECARBONISATION

PLUS CUSTOMER COST REDUCTIONS FOR COMMERCIAL, DOMESTIC

AND OFF-GRID HEATING & HOT WATER DELIVERY 

CLICK HERE FOR MORE INFORMATION ABOUT H3

 

  • 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.

RINNAI FULL PRODUCT AVAILABILITY 24/7 FOR NEXT DAY DELIVERY of ALL HOT

WATER HEATING UNIT MODELS INCLUDING 48-58kW UNITS-

 

 

SAVINGS OF

20%                REDUCTION of opex cost,

30%                REDUCTION of initial cost

15%                REDUCTION in carbon

75%                REDUCTION of space

85 %              LESS in weight

 

 

CLICK HERE for the Rinnai Website

Or email engineer@rinnaiUK.com 

Or CLICK HERE for more information on the RINNAI product range

 

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TRILUX Unveils E-Line Pro: A Versatile Upgrade to the Classic Luminaire Series

TRILUX, the renowned lighting specialist, proudly announces the launch of E-Line Pro, the latest evolution in its esteemed E-Line luminaire range. E-Line Pro, recognised with the prestigious IF Design Award 2024, represents a seamless blend of experience and innovation, promising enhanced flexibility, performance, and sustainability across retail, industrial, and office environments.

Experience Meets Evolution

Building upon the success of its predecessor, E-Line Pro introduces a host of groundbreaking features designed to elevate user experience and adaptability. The revamped trunking system allows for effortless positioning of gear trays within a future-proof current routing, streamlining installation and ensuring reliable performance. With a proven modular kit system, E-Line Pro offers unparalleled versatility, efficiently catering to diverse lighting applications.

Unmatched Flexibility

E-Line Pro’s new trunking system boasts continuous power supply options, available in 7- or 13-pole configurations to suit specific requirements. The system can accommodate three circuits, DALI, emergency lighting, and additional functions, ensuring seamless integration and exceptional reliability. Moreover, freely positionable gear trays ensure optimal electrical contact and hassle-free installation, while flexible feed-in options eliminate visible interference points, securing a sleek and professional finish.

 

Exceptional Lighting Quality

While E-Line Pro introduces a redesigned profile, its pioneering lighting technology remains unchanged. Featuring 21 application-specific optical systems, the luminaire delivers superior lighting solutions tailored to a wide range of environments. E-Line Pro promises unparalleled performance and visual comfort with options for high glare control, Ra >90 colour rendering index, ConVision® optic, and variable light colour for human-centric lighting concepts.

Revolutionised Mounting

TRILUX has reimagined the mounting process with E-Line Pro, providing simplicity, versatility, and connectivity at every step. Clear directional markers on the profile guide installation while innovative couplings, inserts, and modules click into place with audible feedback, guaranteeing secure electrical and mechanical connections. The result is a hassle-free mounting experience that underscores TRILUX’s commitment to user-centric design.

Enhanced Design Aesthetics

With a redesigned trunking system and subtly widened profile, E-Line Pro exudes modernity and sophistication. The integration of gear trays within the profile, along with redesigned end caps, ensures a clean and minimalist aesthetic that complements a variety of environments, including retail, office, and educational spaces.

Sustainable Innovation

True to TRILUX’s commitment to sustainability, E-Line Pro embodies eco-conscious design and manufacturing practices. With a focus on material efficiency and resource-friendly packaging and logistics, the luminaire sets new standards for environmental responsibility. Furthermore, its highly efficient luminaires boast up to 207lm/W, guaranteeing reduced energy consumption and carbon footprint during operation, empowering you to make a sustainable choice.

 

Easy Refurbishment and Expansion

For projects requiring refurbishment or expansion, TRILUX offers E-Line Fix as a seamless solution. This allows for easy conversion of outdated systems to LED technology, ensuring a hassle-free transition and maximising the lifespan of existing installations. Additionally, TRILUX continues to provide compatible profiles and modules for expanding existing E-Line projects, ensuring continuity and scalability.

CLICK HERE to find out more about the new range

 

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NOW AVAILABLE – NEW CONTINUOUS FLOW HOT WATER HEATERS FROM RINNAI

RINNAI’S NEW HIGH-EFFICIENCY, SPACE SAVING EXTERNAL CONTINUOUS FLOW HOT WATER HEATERS NOW AVAILABLE

 

Rinnai is launching the Infinity E series of externally mounted continuous flow water heaters. Each unit arrives with water ingress protection (IPx5D) and provides a limitless volume of temperature controlled clean hot water, whilst electric, gas and water services are connected. The gas-fired water heaters are lightweight (18kgs) meaning that there is no need for heavy lifting gear.

 

The continuous flow water heaters are powerful yet diminutive with a max flowrate of 20 litres per min making them an ideal water heating solution where space is limited.

For a brochure on this new range of external water heaters

CLICK HERE

to contact RINNAI direct

 

The 17e Hydrogen 20% blend ready certified gas-fired water heater is an ideal solution for glamping sites, leisure facilities, festival ablutions, small commercial outlets and where a requirement for cost effective and durable appliances is needed. The inclusion of micro-processors enables the customer to pre-set water temperature that is delivered accurate to +1 / -1 degree of the set point helping eradicate legionella proliferation and delivery temperature inaccuracies that can create discomfort or scalding. These features have ensured that Rinnai external continuous flow water heaters are used widely in equine and leisure industries.

 

Rinnai continues to introduce innovative technological solutions to hot water and heating provision in domestic and commercial applications. One such innovation is inherent within E series as the gas-fired water heaters are fitted with micro-processors that will measure incoming water temperatures and modulate gas input. This guarantees the system will only use the required amount of energy to increase water temperature whilst supplying litre upon litre of clean hot water.

 

Rinnai’s Infinity E Series features an internal monitor that regulates hot water temperature. If any fluctuations rise above 3 degrees of the maximum set temperature, operation of the system will immediately stop ensuring customer safety and low operational costs.

 

Additional features that are included when purchasing the Rinnai Infinity E Series are as follows:

 

  • Compact size saving wall and floor space (dimensions length 531x 270x 191)
  • Lightweight 18kgs (no need for heavy lifting gear)
  • Hot Water Delivery Capacity max flowrate 20l/min
  • Temperature Accuracy -1 / +1 from the appliance setpoint
  • Direct force exhaust
  • Temperature Range 37-65°C
  • Ignition Method Direct electronic
  • IPx5D rated.
  • Gross Efficiency 93%
  • Net Efficiency 103%

 

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 with low cost and practical solutions that cover all energy options.

 

RINNAI OFFERS CLEAR PATHWAYS TO LOWER CARBON AND DECARBONISATION P

LUS CUSTOMER COST REDUCTIONS FOR COMMERCIAL, DOMESTIC

AND OFF-GRID HEATING & HOT WATER DELIVERY 

CLICK HERE FOR MORE INFORMATION ABOUT H3

 

  • 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.

RINNAI FULL PRODUCT AVAILABILITY 24/7 FOR NEXT DAY DELIVERY of ALL HOT

WATER HEATING UNIT MODELS INCLUDING 48-58kW UNITS-

 

SAVINGS OF

20%                REDUCTION of opex cost

30%                REDUCTION of initial cost

15%                REDUCTION in carbon

75%                REDUCTION of space

 

 

CLICK HERE for the Rinnai Website

Or email engineer@rinnaiUK.com 

Or CLICK HERE for more information on the RINNAI product range

 

 

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FUNDING ON HOLD: Schools Told ‘Get Legal Advice’

,

Several schools have been told by the Department for Education that building repair funding they had won approval for will now be put on hold, Tes has learned.

An academy trust that had two bids for Condition Improvement Fund (CIF) cash approved in March this year has now been told by the DfE that this funding has been put on hold while a “due diligence process” is carried out.

The trust, which preferred not to be named, said the call came from the DfE today – just days before contracted work was due to begin on its school site.

Staff said contractors has been lined up to start work on their projects this weekend. These projects were said to be fully funded by CIF money totalling hundreds of thousands of pounds.

Tes understands that several other academy trusts have received similar calls from the DfE’s capital team.

The Confederation of School Trusts (CST) said that it was aware the issue had affected several trusts and has raised concerns at “the highest levels of the DfE”.

School told to ‘get legal advice’ on building work

An executive at the trust that did not want to be named said: “We’re waiting for confirmation to see if the contractors have already bought the materials and therefore have made a financial commitment.

“I asked the person I spoke to over the phone [at the DfE] what I should do if they have made a financial commitment and he said, ‘I suggest you get legal advice.’”

The trust executive told Tes they asked the DfE if it would be contacting the third-party company that wrote the bid for the trust, and were told that it would not.

Academy funding consultant Tim Warneford told Tes: “I have been contacted by several fellow consultants whose schools have received similar phone calls from the DfE telling them the release of their funding has been put on hold.

“This has left those academies who had had accepted the terms and conditions of their CIF award, and who had subsequently entered into contracts with appointed contractors, feeling very vulnerable, especially where surveys and works have commenced or were due to start during next week’s half-term.”

A spokesperson for the CST said: “The CST has heard from several trusts that the timing of these decisions to put CIF funding on hold is causing them significant issues, including some projects where work was scheduled to start in just a few days’ time. This work had already been approved and trusts need urgent details on the reasons for this change.

“We have raised these concerns at the highest levels within the DfE and will continue pressing them for a swift resolution so trusts can get on with this desperately needed work, and for reassurance that trusts will not be left out of pocket through no fault of their own.”

A consultant at a company that puts CIF bids together for trusts said “quite a few clients” had contacted the company having received calls from the DfE – though not all of the trusts it had bid for.

“They are being told this is an additional due diligence step,” the consultant said.

He added that some school trusts are being asked how far along they are in terms of the process and to send details to the DfE about what work they have committed to having done through CIF funding.

The consultant added that some of the company’s clients had been told they would receive a letter tomorrow with further details.

“They’re being told any costs that have been incurred will be covered but they should stop anything further.”

He added that some clients had reported now being told to apply to the Urgent Capital Fund if they have work that needs to be done urgently.

Mr Warneford said one of his clients has been told by the DfE that its funding is still proceeding.

A Department for Education spokesperson said: “Where the department requires further information about an application or delivery of a project, the department may put projects on hold whilst further due diligence is conducted.

“We are in touch with the affected responsible bodies to discuss next steps and will provide a further update to them by the end of June.”

The DfE declined to say how many bids have been put on hold.

The Condition Improvement Fund

CIF is a pot of money for capital works that smaller academy trusts, voluntary aided bodies and colleges are able to bid for.

The DfE publishes a list of successful projects each year. Projects approved range from urgent roof repairs and electricity works to asbestos removal and boiler replacement.

For 2024-25, 866 projects were successful across 733 schools and colleges. This was a 16 per cent reduction on the number of projects funded the year before.

The number of projects in 2023-24 was also less than the number the year before, which funding consultants said was “devastating”.

 

Source: TES

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RINNAI: UK TO CLEAR A PATHWAY TO MORE ELECTRIFICATION

 

Chris Goggin reviews the UK’s approach to extending and enhancing electrical grid connections to recently constructed renewable energy projects. He looks at how focus could be applied to the potential impact on UK customer options.

 

For more opinion pieces on UK energy and policy

CLICK HERE to subscribe to our newsletter

 

Every major country is trying to decarbonise all industrial and commercial operations, knowing that current fossil fuel usage is environmentally unsustainable. Therefore, each notable international economy is currently drafting future energy policy objectives that complement respective domestic energy mixes.

 

It is a widely believed amongst professionals inside the industry that a range of energies will need to be utilised in realising the target of reducing national carbon loads. As part of the UK plan to decarbonise domestic, commercial and industrial activities widespread electrification will become the major contributor towards reducing national and global carbon outputs.

 

Widespread electrification is a main objective by UK policy makers who aim to impose the cheapest electricity costs on UK households in the European region by 2035. Over the next 10 years electricity demand is predicted to double, by 2050 UK electrical demand and usage will be twice the amount that is consumed today.

 

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.

 

Substantial amounts of energy consumed across the UK is now produced from areas that are situated away from the power stations. Offshore wind and solar energy is generated away from UK land, in rural and seaward locations. To cargo renewable energy across the UK means the construction of new electrical grid connections must be created to ensure easy distribution routes.

 

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 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 million 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.

 

Significant work is being completed to adapting and connecting the UK transmission network to clean low-cost electricity. Domestic upgrades and submarine interconnections linking the UK with two additional countries should theoretically provide cost effective supplies of green power to UK businesses and homes.

 

Contractors, specifiers, system designers and installers should target manufacturers of decarbonising heating and hot water systems that have aligned their product options within future and current energy policy.

 

Rinnai will continue to provide UK customers with factual information that influences customer purchasing options with the aim of improving UK customer decision making in domestic and commercial decarbonising heating and hot water systems.  Rinnai continue to monitor all domestic and global news related to all energy matters.    

CLICK HERE

to take advantage of Rinnai design services and find optimum solution for your next project use our smart carbon calculation services

 

 

RINNAI’S H3 DECARBONISATION OFFERS PATHWAYS & CUSTOMER COST REDUCTIONS FOR COMMERCIAL,

DOMESTIC AND OFF-GRID HEATING & HOT WATER DELIVERY

CLICK HERE FOR MORE INFORMATION ABOUT H3 

 

Rinnai’s H3 range of decarbonising products include hydrogen / BioLPG ready technology, hybrid systems, and a wide range of LOW GWP heat pumps and solar thermal. Also, within Rinnai’s H3 range is Infinity hydrogen blend ready and BioLPG ready continuous flow water heaters which are stacked with a multitude of features that ensure long life, robust & durable use, customer satisfaction and product efficiency.

Rinnai’s range of decarbonising products – H1/H2/H3 – consists of heat pump, solar, hydrogen in any configuration, hybrid formats for either residential or commercial applications. Rinnai’s H3 range of products offer contractors, consultants and end users a range of efficient, robust and affordable decarbonising appliances which create practical, economic and technically feasible solutions. The 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.

Rinnai H1 continuous water heaters and boilers offer practical and economic decarbonization delivered through technological innovation in hydrogen and renewable liquid gas ready technology.

Rinnai’s H1 option is centred on hydrogen, as it is anticipated that clean hydrogen fuels will become internationally energy market-relevant in the future; Rinnai water heaters are hydrogen 20% blends ready and include the world’s first 100% hydrogen-ready hot water heating technology.

Rinnai H2 – Decarbonization simplified with renewable gas-ready units, Solar Thermal and Heat Pump Hybrids. Rinnai H2 is designed to introduce a practical and low-cost option which may suit specific sites and enable multiple decarbonisation pathways with the addition of high performance.

Rinnai H3 – Low-GWP heat pump technology made easy – Rinnai heat pumps are available for domestic and commercial usage with an extensive range of 4 – 115kW appliances.

Rinnai’s H3 heat pumps utilise R32 refrigerant and have favourable COP and SCOP.

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’s commercial and domestic continuous flow water heaters offer a limitless supply of instantaneous temperature controlled hot water and all units are designed to align with present and future energy sources. Rinnai condensing water heaters accept either existing fuel or hydrogen gas blends. Rinnai units are also suited for off-grid customers who require LPG and BioLPG or DME.

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. More information can be found on Rinnai’s website and its “Help Me Choose” webpage

CLICK HERE for the Rinnai Website

Or email engineer@rinaiuk.com 

Or CLICK HERE for more information on the RINNAI product range

 

 

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Vox Ignis Launches Unicorn Voice PAVA with global first UL Certification

 

Worldwide voice alarm and safety communications specialist Vox Ignis has launched its new unified PAVA system, Unicorn Voice, after becoming the global first to recieve UL certification to EN54-16. This European standard specifies the requirements for voice alarm controls and other equipment used in fire detection and alarm systems.

Unicorn Voice is a powerful wall-mounted, scalable public address and voice alarm (PAVA) system for almost any site. It is designed to be the easiest to specify, install, and configure. It can grow from one panel to a fault-tolerant network of 64 multi-amplifier panels with up to 256 speaker circuits supporting over 163,000 speakers as per BS EN 5839-8.

Unicorn Voice is easily programmed and managed via integrated, intuitive touch screens or PC and offers a range of amplifier sizes and speaker taps that maximise power efficiency. Amplifiers can be hot-swapped, and Vox Ignis’ speaker range promises easy first-fix with plug-and-play installation. Unicorn Voice offers pre-recorded and live voice messaging, background music, integrated fire telephones, disabled refuge, fire alarm VADs, and assistance alarms, delivering one system for all the fire and life safety voice and alert systems required in modern sites.

Anthony Smith, managing director of Vox Ignis, said:

“Unicorn Voice is the result of a £multi-million development project and 30 years of leading experience. It delivers a best-in-class feature set, a product that demystifies the voice alarm world and ensures the very best audio safety systems are available to the market.

“We are proud that this is the first product to have been tested and certified by UL to EN54-16, or any EN or UK standard. I’d like to thank the UK and USA UL teams for their contributions. Achieving UL certification is not easy, and that is why it is one of the most well-respected certification marks in the life safety industry.”

Karine Johnfroe, vice president and general manager of the UL Solutions Built Environment Group, said:

“For 130 years, our organization has been integral to enabling fire and life safety technology advancements. Our pioneering safety science efforts and technical leadership in this area have empowered makers of fire safety equipment to help safeguard lives and property.

“We are honored to continue this work as a notified and approved body for the Construction Products Regulation to EN and UK standards, and we commend Vox Ignis for working to demonstrate their product’s compliance.”

Vox Ignis is a global specialist in voice alarm, emergency voice communication,

and assistance call systems.  Designed and manufactured in the UK and

sold under the Vox Ignis and leading OEM brands worldwide, its products

amplify the safety of millions of people and buildings every day.

CLICK HERE FOR MORE INFORMATION

 

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Portakabin Completes Installation in just 19 Days

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Portakabin completes installation in just 19 days for a new state-of-the-art, 200-place special educational needs school in Leeds.

 

Portakabin, the UK’s market leader in modular construction, successfully installed a 70-module complex at the Cross Green Road site in Leeds earlier this year, with installation complete in under three weeks.

Following a successful bid to the Department for Education in 2019, Leeds City Council announced Co-op Academies Trust as the successful sponsor of the special educational needs free school. The DfE selected modular specialist, Portakabin, to deliver this project.

The school opened in temporary accommodation at another Co-op Academy Trust site, on time and welcomed 56 children in September 2022. The new building will welcome the second cohort of students, an additional 86 children in September 2024. Full capacity of 200 is expected to be reached the following year.

Portakabin precision-engineered the modules, that were designed specifically for Co-op Academies Trust project, at its manufacturing facility in York and transported them less than 35 miles away to the site in Leeds. Known as ‘Co-op Academy Brierley’, the new SEND school will host 200 students from the ages of 4-16 in Leeds. The school is set to have a primary and secondary provision and will become an essential part of the local community in East Leeds.

Constructed off site using Modern Methods of Construction (MMC), the school was installed quickly and safely despite having to manage around periods of high wind, with all custom-built modules on-site in less than three weeks.

James Pearson, Divisional MD at Portakabin said:

“Co-op Academy Brierley is one of the projects awarded to us on the DfE’s MMC framework. Despite the inclement weather, we were able to successfully deliver and install 70 modules safely in just 19 days, maintaining the agreed contract programme.

Particular attention has been paid to preserving existing trees on site, despite the need for extensive sculpting of levels on the site, to achieve the gradients required for compliant access.

It’s a great pleasure to celebrate the first milestone in this project, which will become an important part of the local community.”

Alongside over 27 classrooms and dedicated teaching space, the completed school will boast extensive minibus drop-off facilities, approximately 130 car parking spaces for staff and visitors, an immersive technology room, therapy, and sensory rooms.

After starting on site in January, installation was completed on 18 February, with the project set to be handed over before the start of the new school year in September 2024.

Tim Leach, Contract Manager at Portakabin alongside Sarah Harridge, Headteacher at Co-op Academy Brierley

Sarah Harridge, Headteacher said:

“The pace that our new school was built was nothing short of spectacular, this new school will give children with special needs in Leeds a state of the art, custom built provision with their needs at the heart of every decision made in the build process.”

Vicki England, Co-op Academy Project Manager said:

“This project has been very smooth and has remained on budget throughout which is of course very important when we’re working with Department for Education budgets, the school looks fantastic so far and we look forward to welcoming all 142 children to their new facility in September.”

The planned opening date for Co-op Academy Brierley is September 2024.

 

CLICK HERE FOR FURTHER INFORMATION

 

CLICK HERE TO VISIT THE PORTAKABIN WEBSITE

 

 

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