Nine policy advisors from Department of Energy Security and Net Zero (DESNZ) have been on a fact-finding visit to our infrared heating pilot project in York.
The low-carbon panel heating system being installed in 30 Yorkshire Housing homes at the Alabury House site is replacing older-style storage heaters with infrared technology, alongside a control system on the panels. The pilot project has helped to reduce energy bills by up to three-quarters.
The representatives from DESNZ met three customers at their homes to find out how they've adjusted to the new technology. The aim of the visit was to see the system working in the in the real-world. Afterwards the group attended a data session with the contractors, Ambion Heating.
Our homes produce around 50,000 tonnes of carbon dioxide each year and we're planning to invest £8 million to improve their energy efficiency by 2030, and to make sure all our homes achieve a minimum energy efficiency rating of EPC band C. Technology such as air source heat pumps aren’t suitable for every property. Infrared technology is ideal for smaller, well insulated properties like flats that have small space heat demand.
Unlike conventional heating systems that heat the air in a room which can then escape from doors and windows, the panels use infrared technology to warm the fabric of a building, as well as the objects in a room. The heat they absorb is gradually and steadily released, maintaining a steady temperature and keeping rooms warmer for longer. The infrared panels are electric-powered and have a very low wattage, so are more economical than conventional storage heaters, and their slim, minimalist design means they take up less space in a room.
Speaking about the infrared panels, Emma Norfolk, Sustainability Liaison Officer for Yorkshire Housing said: “The customers involved in our trial have found the technology simple to use, and are incredibly pleased with how warm their home is! It’s been so exciting to see the practical applications of the technology. The initial findings have been really positive, and I can’t wait to see the results of the trial.”
Alexis Durrant, Yorkshire Housing’s sustainability lead, said: “Following the success at Alabury we are installing infrared heating more widely in our homes. This will be where we need to replace old electric heating systems, and where air source heat pumps are not viable. Air source heat pumps remain our priority and our main measure for low carbon heating technology.
“We will look to review our position on scaling up use Infrared heating when and if the measure becomes eligible for EPC (SAP) point improvement and energy efficiency funding.”