Ten-Tonne Heat Pump Set for Calderdale School Rooftop
Overview of the Proposed Heat Pump Installation
At Ryburn Valley High School, located on St Peter’s Avenue in Sowerby, a new air source heat pump is set to be installed as part of a planning application submitted by MITIE Technical Facilities Management Ltd. The proposal includes the installation of a heat pump that will significantly reduce the school's carbon footprint. According to supporting documents, the new system is expected to cut emissions by around two-thirds, making it a major step towards achieving climate policy objectives.
The project involves the installation of an air source heat pump with a weight of approximately ten tonnes on the existing flat roof structure. This will be supported by a new steel platform, which will be built above the existing roof line and connected to the current structure. The purpose of this platform is to ensure that the load from the heat pump does not place additional stress on the existing roof beams. It also serves to provide acoustic and vibration separation, helping to mitigate noise and other disturbances.
Key Components of the Project
In addition to the heat pump, the proposal includes the installation of buffer vessels – water tanks – within an existing second floor plant area. These vessels will help to supplement the heat pump and improve the efficiency of the heating system. The structural assessment report indicates that the existing steel members have spare capacity to accommodate some additional load, which supports the feasibility of the project.
The internal second floor service zone slab support structure has been evaluated and found to have sufficient capacity to support the new water tanks and buffer vessels. If there are any changes in specifications or if more flexibility is needed, a new steel platform can be installed above this slab level to accommodate the additional requirements.
Acoustic and Visual Considerations
To address potential visual and sound impacts from the new system, the project includes acoustic and visual screening. This will help to ensure that the heat pump and associated equipment do not disrupt the surrounding environment or the daily operations of the school. Some existing plant equipment on the roof will also need to be relocated to make space for the new installation.
The overall goal of the project is to replace the existing gas system with low-carbon technology. Supporting papers state that 90.6 per cent of the school’s heat demand will be met by this new system, marking a significant improvement over the previous setup. This transition aligns with broader environmental goals and demonstrates a commitment to sustainability.
Structural and Engineering Details
The structural assessment report highlights several key engineering considerations. The new steel platform will be designed to support the weight of the heat pump while ensuring that the existing roof structure remains undisturbed. This approach not only enhances the safety of the building but also reduces the need for extensive modifications.
The use of buffer vessels and the relocation of existing equipment are part of a broader strategy to optimise the performance of the heating system. By integrating these elements, the project aims to create a more efficient and environmentally friendly solution for the school.
Conclusion
The proposed heat pump installation at Ryburn Valley High School represents a forward-thinking approach to reducing carbon emissions and improving energy efficiency. With careful planning and engineering, the project is poised to deliver long-term benefits for both the school and the environment. The inclusion of acoustic and visual screening, along with the strategic use of existing structures, ensures that the project is both practical and sustainable.
