Project Overview

In partnership with Burlington Engineering, the Embassy’s heating and ventilation were retrofitted to a modern, renewable system—improving efficiency and comfort while respecting the constraints of the existing plant.

Scope of Works

• 6 × MasterTherm BA90iP (R290, low-GWP) inverter heat pumps in cascade (~300 kW total)
• Portion of cascade configured to supply DHW up to 65 °C when required
• New Atrea Duplex 15000 Roto heat-recovery AHU with dual coils (heating + cooling)
• Heating coil served by the new primary LTHW loop; cooling coil connected to the existing chiller manifold
• Integration with the existing primary manifold and distribution circuits

System Description

Variable-speed cascade sequencing provides adaptive capacity, lead/lag rotation and weather compensation for seasonal efficiency. Natural refrigerant R290 minimises GWP while delivering robust high-temperature performance.

The heat-recovery AHU enhances IAQ and reduces heating/cooling loads. Controls integrate with the site BMS via Modbus/BACnet for monitoring, alarming and trend capture, with secure remote access for support.

Project Results & Benefits

• Material reduction in CO₂ emissions aligned with Embassy and national targets
• Higher system efficiency via precise control and effective heat recovery
• Improved indoor climate stability and air quality for occupants
• Future-proofed services with modern, low-GWP heat-pump technology and open protocols

Technical Highlights

• MasterLAN cascade with inverter modulation delivers wide turndown and N+1 resilience.
• R290 refrigerant (GWP ≈ 3) significantly lowers refrigerant‑related climate impact vs. HFCs.
• DHW production controlled with priority and weekly anti‑legionella pasteurisation ≥ 60–65 °C.
• AHU filters to ISO 16890 (e.g., ePM1) support good IAQ; rotary wheel reduces heating and cooling loads year‑round.
• Open‑protocol BACnet/Modbus ensures seamless BMS integration and trending for continuous optimisation.

Energy & Carbon (SEAI)

Electrification using high‑efficiency R290 heat pumps cuts fossil‑fuel consumption and associated Scope 1 emissions. As grid carbon intensity continues to fall, operational CO₂ per kWh of heat improves further over time.

• Aligned with SEAI decarbonisation pathways and public‑sector reporting expectations.

Suitable for SEAI‑style project structures (e.g., EXEED) focusing on lifecycle performance and M&V.