The Outward Bound Trust needed to replace an ageing oil-fired boiler at its Eskdale Centre. At the same time, the organisation wanted a solution that aligned with its environmental commitments. Following a detailed feasibility study, we found that Air Source Heat Pumps alone could not meet the building’s heating demands.
Consequently, we designed a bi-valent system combining Air Source Heat Pumps with LPG gas boilers. This allowed the Trust to benefit from renewable technology while maintaining reliable performance during peak demand.
In addition, we specified an LPG boiler capable of future conversion to bio-LPG, giving the Trust flexibility as low-carbon technologies continue to evolve. The project also included a complete redesign of the heating, hot water and cold water systems.
CLIENT: Outwards Bound Trust
LOCATION: Eskdale, Cumbria
SERVICES: Mechanical Engineering
COMPLETED: 2024
SECTOR: Charity | Leisure
CLIENT OBJECTIVES
The Outward Bound Trust needed to replace an oil fired boiler at Eskdale Outward Bound Centre. As an environmentally responsible organisation, any replacement had to align with current environmental standards and future requirements. The building itself presented challenges, making it energy-inefficient and demanding on any heating system.
The Trust was keen to install Air Source Heat Pumps as the preferred renewable option, viewing this as the most straightforward path to reducing its carbon footprint. However, the client needed expert guidance on whether this aspiration was realistic given the building’s condition and heating demands.
Above all, the client wanted a solution that wouldn’t lock them into outdated technology, but would instead give them flexibility to adapt as environmental regulations and technologies continue to evolve.
OUR SOLUTION
PSA carried out a feasibility study, complete the mechanical design, and provide on-site supervision to ensure the project met the required specification. The feasibility study examined practical options for energy sources, carefully considering the building’s age, condition and heating requirements. Whilst The Outward Bound Trust’s preference was for Air Source Heat Pumps, our analysis showed this wouldn’t be viable as a standalone solution due to the building’s size and demands.
We identified a bi-valent approach, which allows two systems to work together. The scheme uses Air Source Heat Pumps alongside an LPG gas boiler, providing renewable energy when conditions allow whilst ensuring reliable heating during peak demand. We specified the LPG boiler to allow future upgrade to bio-LPG, giving the Trust a clear pathway to further reduce emissions as the technology becomes more widely available.
Design elements:
- Bi-valent heating system combining Air Source Heat Pumps with LPG gas boiler
- Complete heating system replacement
- Hot and cold water provision redesign
- Future-ready specification for bio-LPG conversion
THE OUTCOME
The Outward Bound Trust is pleased with the new system, which delivers reliable heating whilst supporting its environmental commitments. The bi-valent design gives the client the desired renewable technology without compromising on performance for the building’s specific needs. The new system is delivering lower running costs than the original oil fired boilers.
