Copper piping in the Kensa workshop, used in the manufacturing of ground source heat pumps. Truro, Cornwall
In the competitive world of CO2 emissions the heating of buildings is one of the largest contributors. Away from the gas grid, oil and electricity are often used to supply heat to buildings and both contribute significantly to carbon emissions in the UK.
Yet alternatives are not so hard to source. Take Kensa’s heat pumps. What they do is simple, namely taking low-grade heat from outside a building and pumping it inside. What they cost is manageable at between £450 and £1200 per kW installed, and what they deliver is efficiency and reduced emissions – three or four units of heat supplied for every unit of electricity used and over 3,000 tonnes/year of CO2 saved.
Kensa have been responsible for the installation of heat pumps in more than 1,500 domestic and other buildings. Their pumps come as kits to aid installation (plumbers and DIY enthusiasts alike can install them) and over new 50 installers have been mentored and monitored for quality.
However, Kensa see this as only a start. In an area like Cornwall where many buildings are not connected to the gas grid heat pumps are serious players in the heating market. Larger heat pumps are planned to meet customer demand. And, of course, to meet the demand for carbon reduction.
