HYBRID HEATING SYSTEMS
Representatives from the Utility Regulator visit a hybrid heating trial open house hosted by Phoenix Energy.
A hybrid heating workshop attended by NI Gas DNOs.
and 50p cheaper to run per day than an average standalone heat pump.
3. NI energy system benefits: If every home in NI installed a 6kW heat pump, this would duplicate NI’s existing peak electrical demand and pose significant challenges for NI’s electricity distribution network. As hybrids can switch to the gas boiler during periods of peak demand, they lessen the impact on the electricity system. Overall, and confirmed by the results of our own trials, hybrid heating systems offer a realistic and consumer-friendly path to reducing residential carbon emissions in Northern Ireland.
gas boiler standing ready to step in at points when the heat pump is not able to operate efficiently and/or cost effectively. The gas boiler element also usually meets the home’s hot water demand, avoiding the need to install a hot water storage tank.
Space saving: No additional space within the home was required as the hybrid’s combi boiler provided hot water without the need for a hot water tank. LOOKING AHEAD As Northern Ireland transitions toward a low-carbon energy system, Phoenix is confident that hybrid heating systems, in conjunction with a renewable gas network, will play a significant role in the decarbonisation of home heating. Our current trials are just the beginning, and the NI Gas DNOs are working together to take forward a large 100 home hybrid heating trial next year. While existing skills across the gas sector will be well placed to support the growth of the hybrid heating market, there will be a need for companies to embrace renewable accreditations to be actively involved in hybrid installations. We look forward to working with industry partners in the coming months to keep you updated on the status of trial activity and projects in this area. If you would like to hear more about our plans, please visit www.phoenixenergyni. com/fuelling-the-future
Hybrid systems offer several significant advantages:
1. Lower running costs for the consumer: As electricity and gas tariff prices can be programmed into the hybrid controller unit, the system can react to changing energy prices by automatically varying the split between each unit to provide the most cost- effective heating mix for the homeowner. 2. Reduced disruption for the consumer: Hybrids can utilise a home’s existing heating system without the requirement to upgrade radiators or install hot water tanks. This is crucial as over 80% of gas connected homes in NI feature combi boilers and there is often no space available to incorporate a hot water tank. Hybrids are also particularly suitable for distress purchase situations where the boiler breaks down and needs immediate replacement.
HYBRID SYSTEM TRIAL RESULTS
Phoenix Energy has invested in several hybrid heating trials across the Greater Belfast area. Our longest-running trial reporting the following results throughout 2024: Carbon savings: The hybrid significantly reduced the home’s carbon emissions, releasing 60% less carbon than an oil heating system and 49% less carbon emissions than a gas boiler-only system. Cost savings: Throughout 2024, the hybrid proved to be 30p cheaper to run per day than a traditional gas boiler
197 Airport Road West, Belfast BT3 9ED T: +44 (0)3454 555 555 www.phoenixenergyni.com
PLUMBING & HEATING MAGAZINE | 13
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