PUNL is currently working on a renewable heat project with Caxton House.
In July 2021 PUNL commissioned a decarbonisation feasibility study at Caxton House funded by the London Community Energy Fund (LCEF4). Its primary purpose was to examine the technical options for installing renewable heat solutions at this site to reduce carbon emissions and improve air quality. PUNL also commissioned Energy Systems Catapult (ESC) to work with them to develop a financial model for funding the chosen solution.
Caxton House’s energy efficiency was reviewed, and the decision made to replace all their existing windows. PUNL raised most of the capital through an LCEF4 capital grant that was supplemented by additional funding raised by Caxton House. High performance triple glazed windows have now been installed throughout the Centre to reduce draughts and improve ventilation.
The window replacement work has also precipitated other actions to improve energy efficiency in the building including replacing fire exit doors and skylights. The next step is to raise funding to install a building management system that will enable room-level control of heating and a mechanical ventilation and heat recovery system that will improve air flow. Work with ESC on developing the business and financial model is clarifying available options for PUNL to get involved in supplying renewable heat to the Centre either through a Heat Contract or by setting up an Energy Services Company. This work is on-going.
The energy efficiency measures and heat decarbonisation project when fully implemented will cost a further £250-£300K and will save c26t/carbon a year. Caxton House is projected to achieve running cost savings of £1.1k every year.
If c7,000 buildings were similarly decarbonised, then the carbon saving would equate to the estimated 170kT of annual residential gas emissions.