WilSon Energy has finalised a comprehensive refurbishment of the heat network and energy management system at Nova House in Slough, Berkshire. The six-storey residential building, owned by Slough Borough Council, faced significant challenges with its existing infrastructure, prompting the overhaul.
Originally an office block from the 1980s, Nova House was converted into 68 residential apartments in 2015. The council assumed the lease in 2018 due to cladding safety concerns. The building’s heat network and heat interface units (HIUs) had deteriorated, leading to inefficiencies and disrupted water supply. Additionally, the metering system was unreliable, with numerous meters failing to provide data, resulting in inaccurate billing for residents.
Commissioned by Red Rock Estate & Property Management, WilSon Energy undertook the task of overhauling the metering system and replacing malfunctioning HIUs. Site inspections revealed multiple faulty HIUs with leaks causing corrosion. The existing mixed-material pipework with unreliable connections further exacerbated heating and water supply issues for residents, alongside erroneous billing.
WilSon’s installation team systematically isolated and removed old HIUs from kitchen utility cupboards, replacing them with efficient models. The replacement process involved cutting out existing plastic pipework, avoiding hot works as per Fire Marshall advice, and installing copper pipework with compression and press fit fittings. The new setup ensured enhanced reliability and compliance with modern standards.
The installation of Axioma in-line ultrasonic heat energy meters, coupled with an automated open protocol system, now provides precise energy consumption data. This advancement facilitates accurate billing, offering residents cost savings and transparency. WilSon Energy is also providing a one-year rolling credit billing service contract to the property management company.
Andy Wilkinson, CEO of WilSon Energy, remarked on the project’s significance: “This project highlighted the consequences of neglected maintenance on HIUs. By implementing our energy-efficient HIUs, we’ve considerably improved system efficiency and energy management. Our HIUs offer unparalleled two-way communication, allowing remote adjustments and detailed operational reporting.”
Residents can now expect accurate and timely billing, while the management company benefits from streamlined administration and compliance with Heat Trust regulations. For further details on WilSon Energy’s services, visit www.wilsonenergy.co.uk or contact the team at enquiries@wilsonenergy.co.uk.
