A foreword by Imma Boada, National M&E Manager – M&E Contractor Sales Team

The Retrofit Challenge – An Insight for M&E Contractors

The UK’s great building retrofit movement is gaining momentum, marking a pivotal moment in our journey towards a low-carbon future. As building owners across the country strive to enhance the performance and sustainability of their commercial properties, the need for comprehensive retrofit projects has never been more urgent. At the heart of this transformation lies the innovation of Heating, Ventilation and Air Conditioning (HVAC) manufacturers and the expertise of M&E contractors, whose role is critical in driving the retrofitting of our existing commercial building stock to meet the ambitious net zero 2050 goals.

The challenge is immense: upgrading and adapting aging buildings to align with modern standards of energy efficiency and sustainability. Yet, it also presents a significant opportunity for M&E professionals to lead in this national effort, a building at a time. The key to overcoming these challenges is the adoption of cutting-edge, low-carbon HVAC systems, which are essential in reducing the carbon footprint of commercial properties while enhancing their overall performance.

Low-carbon HVAC manufacturers stand ready to support M&E contractors in this vital mission. Through the provision of innovative technologies—such as high-efficiency air source heat pumps and advanced chiller systems—these manufacturers offer the tools and expertise necessary to meet the stringent demands of the retrofit agenda. By partnering with HVAC leaders like Mitsubishi Electric, M&E contractors can access the solutions needed to deliver projects that not only meet current regulatory requirements but also future-proof buildings against the evolving demands of a low-carbon world.

The content below provides an in-depth exploration of the retrofit challenge, offering insights and strategies for M&E contractors navigating this complex yet rewarding landscape. With the right support and collaboration, we can accelerate the retrofit movement and ensure that the UK’s commercial buildings are fit for the future.

An insight into the retrofit challenge

On Thursday 26^th September Mitsubishi Electric gathered M&E contractors in London to address one of the most critical challenges of our time—decarbonisation and the role of retrofitting in meeting net zero targets.

The event brought together industry experts and thought leaders, including the Rt Hon. Lord Deben to explore the opportunities and hurdles faced by M&E contractors in transforming London’s building stock. The following video is a collection of highlights from the event.

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An insight into reasons to retrofit

This infographic has been created to highlight the top 6 reasons to retrofit in the commercial landscape.

From preparation to performance, retrofitting commercial buildings is on the rise. This is down to the increased pace of building upgrades as we move closer to 2050 net zero targets.

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An Insight into a retrofit project

This extensive retrofit project, captured in the following case study video, saw the replacement of gas boilers with Mitsubishi Electric CAHV-R air source heat pumps at Bournemouth University.

Supporting the universities aim of decarbonising heat across its campus, the CAHV-R units can deliver domestic hot water up to 70°C, which will be used for both heating and hot water. This meant that all the existing radiators and piping could be re-used, reducing installation costs.

These industry leading air source heat pumps are the ideal low carbon HVAC solution for retrofitting a range of buildings, including commercial, high-rise residential/student accommodation and more.

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Low-carbon solutions

Ecodan QAHV Commercial Monobloc Air Source Heat Pump

Specifically designed for commercial sanitary hot water application, the Ecodan QAHV CO2 system delivers hot water up to 90 degrees Centigrade to provide a low carbon solution for hospitals, hotels, leisure centres and student accommodation.

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EACV / EAHV e-series Modular Chiller

The R32 e-series chiller range allows for up to 6 individual units to be connected together to provide a system capacity from 150kW to 1,080kW.

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Ecodan CAHV-R Commercial Air Source Heat Pump

This new Mitsubishi Electric air source heat pump uses low GWP R454C refrigerant, offering a robust, low carbon system for the provision of sanitary hot water and space heating

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Chester Zoo Butterfly Habitat

This unique retrofit project upgraded the butterfly habitat with a sustainable heating solution to keep these temperature-sensitive insects happy and thriving. Previously heated with an LPG (liquid petroleum gas) system, it is now entirely heated with seven Mitsubishi Electric air source heat pumps.

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Bournemouth University

Further to the Bournemouth University case study video, the following document gives insight into the site upgrades.

The installation of the CAHV-R heat pumps and a dedicated acoustic enclosure was undertaken by mechanical and electrical contractors, Lowe & Oliver Ltd, who are based in Oxford but work across the South of the country.

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