Hybrid CHP and Heat Pump System for Student Housing in Bristol

Helec recently completed the supply and installation of a communal heating system for a mixed student accommodation development in central Bristol. The Hepburn Court project comprises around 80 rooms, each benefiting from an efficient, reliable and sustainable heating and hot water supply.

Using a hybrid approach of ASHP and CHP, the system delivers the same comfort at around 75% lower running cost than a standard gas boiler installation.

Hepburn Road Bristol ASHP

At the heart of the system is an Emicon air-source heat pump (ASHP), powered by an Indop combined heat and power (CHP) unit. Working together, the CHP generates both heat and electricity on site, significantly reducing reliance on the local grid and helping to keep energy costs low for building operators.

This hybrid setup provides an intelligent balance between renewable and on-site generation technologies. The ASHP extracts heat energy from the outside air, while the CHP simultaneously produces thermal energy and electricity – a combination that maximises system efficiency and ensures consistent performance, even during high-demand periods.

Onsite Power Generation Reduces Heat Pump Running Costs by 75%

Running a 40kW ASHP on grid electricity typically costs around £2.10 per hour. Power that same system using a CHP unit, and the operating cost drops to just 55 pence per hour, a saving of around 75%. That’s a huge reduction in running costs, achieved simply by generating your own low carbon power onsite.

Compared with a traditional gas fired boiler system, the new installation offers:

  • Lower operating costs through improved energy efficiency
  • Reduced carbon emissions thanks to renewable heat generation
  • Enhanced energy resilience, with less dependency on grid electricity

Hepburn Road Bristol CHP    Hepburn Road Bristol Plant Room

The result is a modern, low carbon plant room solution that supports Bristol’s drive toward sustainable development, while providing students with reliable heating and hot water all year round.

Looking to improve the efficiency or sustainability of your next development?

Talk to our team about how Helec can design and deliver a tailored CHP and heat pump package to suit your project.

Hepburn Road Bristol

Client: CACI & Co, Bristol
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