Universities

Embark on a journey towards a greener future with BMD Renewables, a dedicated partner for university sustainability and energy team. We understand the unique energy challenges faced by universities. Explore how our innovative solutions are tailored to transform sustainability of campus wide heating and cooling systems for the long term.

Transforming Universities with Sustainable Heating and Cooling

Benefits

Geo Exchange technology revolutionises ground source heat pump systems, bringing a wealth of benefits to Higher and Further education campuses.

Optimize campus energy usage

Meet net zero targets

Mitigate future energy price risk

Enable phased replacement of gas

Adapt to diverse campus needs

Ensure uninterrupted energy supply

Embrace cutting-edge technology

TECHNOLOGY

Technology

Harnessing the Earth's thermal energy

The Geo-exchange concept combines the predictable energy of the earth with energy captured from cooling, ventilation or waste water. Doing so delivers best in class energy performance with one unit of electricity delivering up to 4.7 units of low carbon heat. Minimising primary energy usage in this way optimises both cost and carbon performance and minimises the impact of fluctuations

in the energy price.

Minimise primary energy usage

We understand that university campuses and the energy systems which supply them can be complex and varied. There is no big bang approach to decarbonisation. Geo-exchange can be deployed to replace gas for a single building or network or to displace some gas from centralised energy centres. Systems can be extended to incorporate more buildings or displace further gas as required.

Displace or replace gas

Whether its replacing gas as the heating source for an existing campus network, displacing some gas from your energy centre or providing the heating and cooling system for a newbuild Geo-exchange can help. We have deployed projects for new faculty buildings which are designed to be extended to provide heat and cooling to existing estates.

Retrofit or newbuild

Geo exchange can be deployed for newbuild or retrofitted to displace gas on existing estates. Doing so gives you options to take immediate steps towards meeting your net zero goals and provides an extensible infrastructure to remove carbon in the future .

Meet short and long term net zero targets

Geo exchange heating and cooling requires up to 90x less surface space than traditional ground source heating and cooling. Enabling more customers to take advantage of the benefits of ground source and preserving land for future development.

Minimise surface space

Our customers can choose from a range of aftercare options which ensure efficient, reliable system performance that reduces downtime and primary energy consumption.

Realise expected benefits

What We Do

Each engagement starts by working to understand your project. Our team use a proven approach to determine the specific requirements of your building or network including existing systems, energy demand profiles, potential waste heat recovery options, geological conditions and space constraints

Site Evaluation

We work with you to produce a concept design and associated cost models, outlining the upfront costs, ongoing operating expenses and potential savings. The models includes estimates for site preparation, drilling, heat pump installation & network infrastructure.

Feasibility & Cost Modeling

Our engineers design the Geo-Exchange system and network to meet your specific requirements. The design process consider factors such as energy efficiency, system reliability, resilience, maintenance, monitoring and cost optimisation.

Project Design

We help clients navigate the funding process, including securing grants, loans, and other forms of financing to secure a tailored financial solutions that can help improve the project's viability.

Funding

We are responsible for the project delivery, from drilling the boreholes to installing the heat pumps and distribution system. We can work as principal contractor or within your project supply chain to ensure the project is completed to the highest standards.

Construction

Once the system or network is operational, we offer a range of solutions to ensure the expected results are achieved. This can range from monitoring and alerting through to full system and performance management.

Operation & Management

ABOUT US

At BMD Renewables, we believe that universities play a crucial role in shaping a sustainable future.

Join us in transforming higher education environments into energy-efficient, eco-friendly hubs that not only benefit the environment but also contribute to the positive image and financial efficiency of your institution. Together, let's create a university experience that is not only academic but also sustainable and forward-thinking.

A greener future

Who can I contact to discuss my project and its suitability for Geo Exchange?

BMD Renewables has a team of experienced professionals ready to answer your questions and assess your specific needs. Contact us today for a free consultation and explore the possibilities of Geo Exchange for your project!
What are the key benefits of using Geo Exchange compared to traditional heating and cooling systems?

Geo Exchange offers the potential to minimise the primary energy consumption associated with heating and cooling on any site. Doing so ensures cost, carbon and waste are optimised and our customers are insulated against fluctuations in the energy markets. When compared to other low carbon technologies our approach enables higher CoPs (efficiency) which in turn translates to lower energy consumption, carbon and opex costs. When analysed across the lifetime of the system we believe our approach offers the best value for our customers. When compared to traditional ground source we require up to 10x fewer boreholes and 90x less surface space.
Is Geo Exchange suitable for my building type (residential, commercial, etc.)?

Yes! Ge- exchange is versatile and can be adapted to various buildings, including residential and mixed use schemes (we do not install systems for single houses), commercial, institutional, and industrial. Contact BMD Renewables for a specific assessment.
What is the estimated installation cost of a Geo Exchange system?

Costs vary greatly depending on project size and complexity. BMD Renewables offers tailored quotes and cost analysis upon site evaluation.
Are there any financial incentives or grants available for installing Geo Exchange systems?

Absolutely! BMD Renewables has successfully worked with customers across the UK to secure grants for our projects. Our systems score well where grant allocations are competitive and cost per tonne of carbon removed is assessed to rank applications. We pro-actively work with our customers navigate these options and prepare applications.
Does Geo Exchange technology comply with Part L UK legislation for energy efficiency?

Yes! Geo-exchange systems are highly energy-efficient and help compliance with the latest Part L UK building regulations for energy performance.
What is the difference between Geo Exchange and traditional ground source heating systems?

Geo-exchange uses proprietary and patent protected borehole design which means our systems need up to 10x fewer boreholes than traditional U-tubes and 90x less surface space. This means our systems can be deployed where traditional ground source cannot. Our approach also seeks to capture and store waste heat from various sources, storing it in the earth for later use, enhancing efficiency and sustainability.
How deep are the boreholes drilled for Geo Exchange systems?

Boreholes typically range from 175 to 250 meters to access stable Earth temperatures and optimise heat exchange.
Is Geo Exchange technology safe and reliable?

Yes! Geo-exchange is a closed-loop system which uses vegetable based glycol in all of our sub-surface networks. Our plant rooms are constructed to comply with latest building regulations and industry best practice. Although innovative Geo-exchange is deployed on over 30 sites in the UK. We have access to over 100 years work of operational data to prove the reliability of the system.
What is the maintenance required for a Geo Exchange system?

BMD works with our customers during construction to identify an appropriate maintenance plan for their system, BMD Renewables will then work to train in-house teams or deliver a comprehensive maintenance plan as required.
Can I combine Geo Exchange with renewable energy sources like solar PV?

Absolutely! Geo Exchange integrates seamlessly with solar PV and to store excess energy from other renewables (air source, solar thermal), creating a truly sustainable heating and cooling solution.
How long does it take to install a Geo Exchange system?

Installation timeframes vary depending on project size and complexity and may start from a few months for smaller developments to a year for larger projects. BMD Renewables will provide a detailed timeline during the planning and quotation stages.
What disruptions can I expect during installation?

BMD Renewables prioritises minimising disruptions to our customer's sites. Our boreholes are drilled by a rotary drill not percussion so you can expect fairly typical construction noise during drilling operations and network installation. We are experienced in retrofitting Geo-exchange to operational sites and will work closely with you to ensure a smooth and efficient process.
Do I need planning permission for a Geo Exchange system?

Unless it can be proven to be permitted development planning permission may be required for any ground source heating system on an existing site. BMD Renewables can advise you on the necessary permits and offers a turnkey service for managing the planning process on your behalf.
What happens if a borehole encounters unexpected ground conditions?

BMD Renewables conducts detailed assessments during the feasibility and design phase to identify and minimise any risk before construction. Every Geo-exchange project which has started drilling has completed successfully.
Who will maintain the Geo Exchange system after installation?

BMD Renewables can work with you to train in house teams and offers comprehensive maintenance plans tailored to your specific needs. Whichever option you choose we will ensure your system operates optimally and efficiently for years to come.
How does Geo Exchange perform in extreme weather conditions?

Each Geo exchange system is designed to function effectively in the local climate, providing consistent heating and cooling year-round. Deployed up to 250m below ground our boreholes are not effected by surface conditions.
Is Geo Exchange suitable for listed buildings or conservation areas?

Yes! BMD Renewables has experience working with sensitive sites and can design discreet and unobtrusive Geo Exchange solutions that comply with heritage regulations.
Does Geo Exchange require a lot of space for the boreholes?

Compared to traditional geothermal systems, BMD Geo Exchange network needs up to 10x fewer boreholes and up to 90% less surface space.
Is Geo Exchange noisy during operation?

The system operates quietly, with minimal noise from pumps and plant contained in plantrooms where noise can be attenuated as required
What are the environmental benefits of using Geo Exchange?

Our goal is to optimise energy performance across heating and cooling. We do this by maximising the energy we can harvest from the earth and recovering waste heat wherever possible ( cooling, refrigeration, ventilation, waste water). Ensuring primary energy usage is minimised in this manner leads to the maximum possible carbon saving.
Can Geo Exchange be integrated with existing heating and cooling systems?

Yes! Geo Exchange can often work alongside existing systems, maximising its potential and offering a smooth transition away from gas.
Does Geo Exchange have any negative environmental impacts?

The environmental impact is minimal. Borehole drilling is carefully planned and executed, and the closed-loop system ensures no harmful substances are released into the environment.
Is Geo Exchange technology constantly evolving?

Yes! BMD Renewables stays at the forefront of advancements, incorporating the latest technologies and design improvements to offer you the most efficient and sustainable solutions.
Where can I learn more about specific case studies and successful Geo Exchange projects?

Visit the BMD Renewables website or contact us directly. We have a wealth of information and project showcases to demonstrate the real-world effectiveness of Geo Exchange.

Our experienced professionals will guide you through an initial consultation to understand your specific needs and requirements. Whether you are a part of the food retail industry, residential development, university, or any other sector, we tailor our approach to suit your unique challenges and objectives.

Following a comprehensive assessment, we collaborate with you to design a customised plan, encompassing everything from funding options to the implementation of cutting-edge technology.