The school has undergone a significant energy upgrade as part of the Pathfinder programme. This initiative encompasses a range of solutions, from comprehensive deep retrofits to trajectory approaches that facilitate schools in their decarbonisation journey, including hybrid delivery solutions. St. Mary’s Holy Faith serves as a prime example of the vital role that digitalisation and data play in effective decarbonisation implementation of the School PV Programme, heat pumps and the use of Building Information Modelling (BIM) in the Pathfinder delivery process.

MasterTherm contributed to the hybrid heat pump solution, with the Air Source Heat Pump (ASHP) system now providing 90% of the school’s space heating needs. Our split heat pump design allocates the majority of components to the indoor unit, with the outdoor units comprising only a fan and evaporator. This innovative configuration allows for the outdoor units of the heat pumps to be positioned nearly directly beneath classroom windows without concern for exceeding noise level requirements, ensuring a comfortable learning environment for students while maintaining low operating costs.

Environmental Impact and CO2 Savings

The upgrade to energy-efficient systems at St. Mary’s Holy Faith not only enhances comfort but also contributes significantly to reducing the school’s carbon footprint. By utilising the ASHP system, the school is projected to achieve substantial CO2 savings. This reduction in greenhouse gas emissions is vital for combating climate change and aligns with national and global sustainability goals.

Furthermore, the integration of renewable energy sources through the School PV Programme allows for a cleaner energy supply, further decreasing reliance on fossil fuels. The combination of these technologies not only promotes a healthier environment for current students but also sets a precedent for future generations, demonstrating a commitment to sustainability and environmental stewardship.

By investing in these green technologies, St. Mary’s Holy Faith is actively participating in the transition towards a low-carbon economy, inspiring other educational institutions to consider similar upgrades. The school’s efforts contribute to a broader community impact, promoting awareness of environmental issues and encouraging responsible energy consumption practices among students and staff alike.