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What the 2026 Heatwaves Have Taught Us About NHS Ventilation and Cooling

Inergy Guest — Tue, 18 Aug 2026 09:56:34 +0000

The UK’s increasingly extreme summers are forcing an uncomfortable question for healthcare estates teams:

Are NHS buildings equipped to keep patients, staff and critical services safe when temperatures rise?

This summer has provided some stark evidence that the answer is not always yes.

In June, hospitals across England experienced serious disruption during extreme heat, with reports of cooling systems failing, IT and medical equipment being affected, and temperatures on some wards reaching levels that doctors described as unsafe.

Last week, the Royal College of Nursing went further, warning that nursing staff were collapsing at work in extreme heat and calling for urgent improvements including better ventilation and air conditioning.

Today’s reporting continues to highlight the pressure that extreme temperatures are placing on patients, staff and NHS infrastructure.

These stories should not simply be viewed as a response to one unusually hot summer.

They should be seen as a warning about the resilience of healthcare buildings.

Hospitals are not ordinary buildings

A hospital or healthcare facility has a fundamentally different set of HVAC requirements from a typical office.

Temperature and air quality can directly affect:

Patient comfort
Staff wellbeing
Infection control
Clinical environments
Medication storage
Specialist equipment
IT infrastructure
Operating conditions
Patient recovery

At the same time, healthcare environments often operate continuously, making planned maintenance and system reliability particularly important.

There is also a fundamental engineering challenge.

You cannot simply treat ventilation and cooling as separate issues.

They need to work together.

Why opening windows isn’t enough

Natural ventilation can be useful in the right circumstances, but healthcare environments often require much greater control over airflow and environmental conditions.

Opening a window does not allow a facilities team to precisely control:

Airflow rates
Temperature
Humidity
Filtration
Air distribution
Pressure relationships
Air changes
Contaminant control

And in a hospital, external conditions are constantly changing.

A window may provide fresh air, but if the outdoor temperature is 30°C or more, it isn’t necessarily going to make the room cooler.

There are also situations where uncontrolled airflow simply isn’t appropriate.

This is why healthcare HVAC design requires a much more considered approach.

Ventilation and cooling need to be designed together

Good ventilation is about bringing fresh air into a building and removing stale or contaminated air.

Cooling is about managing temperature and thermal comfort.

The two systems can work together, but the solution needs to be designed around the specific environment.

For example, an NHS building might require:

Cooling
To maintain suitable temperatures in areas vulnerable to overheating.
Filtration
Where the environment and application require controlled air quality.
Controls
To ensure systems respond appropriately to occupancy and changing conditions.
Heat Recovery
Where appropriate, to improve energy efficiency.
Maintenance
To keep systems operating reliably when they are needed most.

This integrated approach is particularly important when upgrading existing healthcare buildings.

Retrofitting healthcare buildings is not straightforward

One of the biggest challenges facing NHS estates teams is that many healthcare buildings were constructed long before today’s climate conditions were anticipated.

Adding modern HVAC infrastructure can involve working around:

Occupied clinical environments
Existing ductwork
Electrical capacity
Restricted plant space
Complex building layouts
Infection-control requirements
Access constraints
Critical clinical services
Legacy equipment

That makes early planning essential.

A cooling system that works perfectly in a new-build environment may not be the appropriate answer for an existing hospital.

The engineering solution has to fit the building.

Reliability matters as much as capacity

One of the clearest lessons from this summer is that having an HVAC system isn’t necessarily the same as having a resilient HVAC system.

Extreme heat places additional demand on equipment.

Systems may operate for longer periods and at higher loads. Components that are already ageing or poorly maintained can become more vulnerable.

This is why preventative maintenance is so important.

Regular inspection and servicing can identify issues before they become failures, while condition assessments can help estates teams prioritise capital investment.

For a healthcare facility, that isn’t simply about comfort.

It is about operational resilience.

Summer resilience should become part of estates planning

For years, healthcare estates planning has understandably focused heavily on winter pressures.

But the operating environment is changing.

The UK Government’s recent work on climate adaptation recognises that the country needs to prepare for the impacts of a changing climate, including the infrastructure challenges exposed by extreme heat.

For NHS estates teams, that means summer resilience needs to become part of longer-term planning rather than something addressed only when a heatwave is forecast.

The questions should include:

Which areas of the estate are most vulnerable to overheating?
Which HVAC systems are approaching the end of their serviceable life?
Where is ventilation inadequate?
Where is additional cooling required?
Can existing systems be upgraded?
What happens if a critical cooling system fails?
Are maintenance regimes appropriate for increased summer demand?
What capital investment should be planned before the next extreme event?

The goal isn’t simply to install more air conditioning

This is an important distinction.

The solution to overheating in healthcare should not be reduced to:

“Install more air conditioning.”

The better question is:

“How do we create a healthcare environment that can manage temperature, air quality, energy use and operational demands reliably?”

Sometimes that will mean air conditioning.

Sometimes it will mean mechanical ventilation.

Sometimes it will involve upgrading controls, improving heat recovery or replacing ageing equipment.

And in many cases, the answer will be a combination of technologies.

The time to plan is before the next heatwave

The NHS cannot afford to wait until temperatures are already climbing to discover which parts of its estate are vulnerable.

A planned HVAC assessment can provide a clearer picture of the current condition of systems, identify areas of concern and help estates teams develop a prioritised improvement programme.

At Inergy Group, we work across healthcare and other critical environments, designing, installing and maintaining ventilation and HVAC systems with a focus on safe, comfortable and energy-efficient buildings.

The challenge isn’t simply keeping buildings cool.

It’s making them resilient enough to cope with the conditions we now know are coming.

Is your healthcare estate ready for the next heatwave?

This summer has demonstrated that overheating is no longer just a comfort issue.

For healthcare buildings, it can become an operational, safety and infrastructure issue.

The next heatwave will arrive. The question is whether the building will be ready for it.

The post What the 2026 Heatwaves Have Taught Us About NHS Ventilation and Cooling appeared first on inergygroup.co.uk.

Lifecycle & Circular HVAC Solutions for Industrial Facilities

Inergy Guest — Thu, 13 Aug 2026 08:17:14 +0000

In 2026, industrial and commercial HVAC is not just about installation – it’s about lifecycle management and sustainability. Rather than replacing systems outright, many UK facilities are turning to circular HVAC solutions that extend equipment life, lower costs, and reduce environmental impact.

For facility managers, understanding these options is essential to balance operational efficiency, regulatory compliance, and ESG reporting.

Reduce costs and carbon footprint – contact Inergy Group for a free lifecycle HVAC assessment.

What are Lifecycle & Circular HVAC Solutions?

Lifecycle Management:

Circular HVAC Solutions:

Benefits for Industrial Facilities

Cost Savings:
- Refurbishment avoids the capital expense of full replacement.
- Extends the life of major assets like chillers, rooftop units, and VRF systems.
Reduced Carbon Footprint:
- Lower embodied carbon compared with new equipment production.
- Supports ESG reporting and net zero targets.
Operational Continuity:
- Phased retrofits minimise downtime.
- Predictable maintenance scheduling reduces emergency service calls.
Regulatory Compliance:
- Retrofitting and upgrading systems keeps facilities aligned with F-Gas and other UK HVAC regulations.

Practical Implementation Tips

Assess Equipment Condition: Identify components suitable for refurbishment or remanufacturing.
Plan Phased Upgrades: Reduce disruption to operations by scheduling retrofits strategically.
Integrate Smart Controls: Ensure refurbished equipment works seamlessly with IoT and BAS systems.
Select Certified Vendors: Work with providers experienced in lifecycle and circular solutions to guarantee performance.

Case Study Example

Facility: 18,000 m² manufacturing plant in the North West UK
Challenge: Outdated chillers and rooftop units nearing end-of-life; replacement costs estimated at £450,000
Solution: Refurbished major components and installed smart controls for remaining lifecycle.

Results:

Takeaway:

Lifecycle and circular HVAC solutions deliver measurable financial and environmental benefits while keeping facilities compliant and operational.

Lifecycle management and circular HVAC solutions are the future of industrial and commercial facilities. By refurbishing, remanufacturing, and upgrading equipment strategically, facility managers can reduce costs, extend equipment life, minimise environmental impact, and maintain compliance.

Ready to implement lifecycle HVAC solutions in your facility?

The post Lifecycle & Circular HVAC Solutions for Industrial Facilities appeared first on inergygroup.co.uk.

Indoor Air Quality: Beyond Comfort in Industrial and Commercial Buildings

Inergy Guest — Mon, 13 Jul 2026 09:54:28 +0000

Indoor air quality (IAQ) is no longer just about occupant comfort – it has a direct impact on health, productivity, and operational efficiency. In industrial and commercial buildings, poor air quality can lead to absenteeism, reduced focus, and even compliance issues.

As regulations tighten and businesses focus on ESG reporting, facility managers are prioritising IAQ upgrades alongside traditional HVAC improvements.

Improve your facility’s air quality while reducing energy costs. Contact Inergy Group for a free IAQ assessment.

Why IAQ Matters for Industrial Facilities

Health & Productivity:

Regulatory Compliance:

Energy Efficiency:

Protect your workforce and your bottom line: schedule an IAQ consultation with Inergy Group.

Advanced IAQ Monitoring & Management

Modern IAQ solutions use a combination of sensors, automation, and analytics to continuously monitor indoor environments.

Key Metrics to Track:

CO₂ Levels – Indicator of ventilation efficiency.
Particulates & Dust – Important for both air quality and sensitive equipment protection.
Humidity – Prevents mould growth and protects equipment.
Pathogen Control – Filtration and air treatment reduce exposure to viruses and bacteria.

Smart Integration:

Connect IAQ sensors to building automation systems (BAS) for automated responses.
Adjust airflow, temperature, and filtration in real time for optimal conditions.

Learn how smart IAQ solutions can save energy and improve safety – contact Inergy Group today.

Practical IAQ Upgrade Tips for Industrial Facilities

Install Sensor Networks: Monitor CO₂, humidity, temperature, and particulates in key areas.
Upgrade Filtration Systems: Use HEPA or industry-specific filters where appropriate.
Integrate IAQ with HVAC Controls: Automate airflow and ventilation to balance comfort, safety, and energy efficiency.
Regular Maintenance: Ensure filters, ducts, and ventilation units are inspected and cleaned routinely.

Schedule a facility assessment to identify IAQ improvement opportunities – Inergy Group can help.

Sample Case Study

Facility: 12,000 m² logistics warehouse in London
Problem: Staff reported frequent headaches and fatigue; energy costs were high due to over-ventilation.
Solution: Smart IAQ system installed, linked to BAS, optimising airflow and monitoring CO₂ and particulates.

Results:

Takeaway:

Optimising IAQ improves employee wellbeing, operational efficiency, and energy management simultaneously.

Discover how IAQ improvements can enhance productivity and reduce costs – get a free assessment from Inergy Group.

In 2026, indoor air quality is a critical operational factor in industrial and commercial facilities. By investing in IAQ monitoring, filtration upgrades, and smart HVAC integration, facility managers can protect staff health, improve productivity, comply with regulations, and optimise energy use.

Discover how IAQ improvements can enhance productivity and reduce costs – get a free assessment from Inergy Group.

Future-proof your facility with smarter air quality solutions. Contact Inergy Group for a free IAQ consultation.

The post Indoor Air Quality: Beyond Comfort in Industrial and Commercial Buildings appeared first on inergygroup.co.uk.

Smart & Predictive HVAC: Reducing Costs and Downtime in Industrial Facilities

Inergy Guest — Tue, 07 Jul 2026 10:06:51 +0000

Industrial and commercial HVAC is evolving beyond traditional heating and cooling. In 2026, smart and predictive systems are becoming standard for facilities aiming to reduce energy costs, minimise downtime, and improve operational efficiency.

Internet of Things (IoT) sensors, AI-driven predictive maintenance, and cloud-connected building automation systems (BAS) allow facility managers to anticipate issues before they occur and optimise energy use in real time.

Ready to upgrade to a predictive HVAC system? Contact Inergy Group today for a free assessment.

What Are Smart & Predictive HVAC Systems?

Smart HVAC:

Predictive HVAC:

Benefits for Industrial Facilities

Reduced Operational Costs
- Smart HVAC adjusts energy use based on occupancy and load patterns.
- Reduces unnecessary heating, cooling, and ventilation.
Minimised Downtime
- Predictive maintenance identifies issues before they disrupt operations.
- Alerts maintenance staff automatically, preventing costly interruptions.
Data-Driven Decisions
- Real-time reporting supports energy management and ESG (Environmental, Social, Governance) initiatives.
- Historical data enables better planning for future upgrades.
Integration with Building Automation Systems
- Centralises control for HVAC, lighting, and energy metering.
- Improves overall building efficiency and operational visibility.

Discover the ROI of smart HVAC with a free consultation.

Implementation Considerations

To implement a smart or predictive HVAC system, facility managers should focus on:

Sensor Placement: Correctly positioned sensors ensure accurate monitoring.
Data Analytics: Choose systems that provide actionable insights, not just raw data.
Integration: Ensure compatibility with existing BAS and industrial controls.
Staff Training: Facility teams should understand dashboards, alerts, and maintenance schedules.

Don’t worry – if we’re working with you to design this system, we’ll help you select the appropriate system and advise on sensor positioning.

Ensure your smart system delivers results with a free site assessment.

Sample Case Study

Industrial Facility:

20,000 m² warehouse in the Midlands
Upgraded to IoT-connected HVAC with predictive maintenance
Results:
Energy savings: 18% annual reduction
Reduced emergency service calls by 40%
Improved overall equipment lifespan by 3 years

Takeaway: Predictive HVAC systems not only save money—they enhance operational reliability and staff productivity.

Contact Inergy Group to learn how your facility can achieve similar results.

Conclusion

Smart and predictive HVAC systems are no longer optional – they’re becoming essential for industrial and commercial facilities in the UK. By leveraging IoT, AI, and building automation, facility managers can optimise energy use, prevent downtime, and meet ESG goals.

Future-proof your facility with smart and predictive HVAC

The post Smart & Predictive HVAC: Reducing Costs and Downtime in Industrial Facilities appeared first on inergygroup.co.uk.

Heat Pumps & Hybrid HVAC Systems in Industrial Settings

Inergy Guest — Thu, 25 Jun 2026 12:21:36 +0000

Heat pumps are no longer just a residential solution – they’re increasingly used in industrial and commercial buildings across the UK. Combined with hybrid systems, which integrate existing boilers or chillers, they offer a flexible, energy-efficient approach to heating and cooling large facilities.

For facility managers, understanding how these systems work, their benefits, and implementation strategies is essential to reduce energy costs, comply with regulations, and support ESG goals.

Ready to explore industrial heat pump solutions? Contact us today.

Why Heat Pumps Matter for Industrial Facilities

Heat pumps can deliver up to 25–30% energy savings compared to traditional systems.
Low-carbon heating solutions help facilities meet Net Zero 2050 goals.
Supports ESG reporting by lowering Scope 1 emissions.
Modern industrial heat pumps can reach higher temperatures suitable for industries like manufacturing and warehousing, as well as other large-scale commercial facilities.

Hybrid HVAC Systems: Balancing Efficiency and Reliability

Hybrid systems combine heat pumps with existing boilers, chillers, or other HVAC equipment.

This:

For example, a warehouse retrofit using a hybrid system replaced 60% of boiler heating with a heat pump, reducing energy costs by £20,000 annually.

Implementation Considerations

When planning a heat pump or hybrid system, facility managers should consider:

System Sizing: Properly sized equipment ensures optimal efficiency and avoids overspending.
Integration with Existing Infrastructure: Assess whether boilers, chillers, and ductwork can be reused.
Phased Installation: Reduces downtime in operational facilities.
Controls & Automation: Smart control systems ensure maximum energy efficiency and comfort.

To ensure a smooth installation and maximum ROI, schedule a free system review with Inergy Group.

ROI and Case Studies

Industrial Warehouse Example:

Heat pumps and hybrid HVAC systems are transforming industrial and commercial facilities in the UK. By combining energy efficiency, operational reliability, and regulatory compliance, facility managers can future-proof their HVAC systems while reducing costs and carbon emissions.

Ready to modernise your industrial HVAC system?

The post Heat Pumps & Hybrid HVAC Systems in Industrial Settings appeared first on inergygroup.co.uk.

Is Industrial Adiabatic Cooling the Smarter Alternative to Refrigerant-Based Systems?

Inergy Guest — Fri, 19 Jun 2026 12:50:24 +0000

In recent years, the conversation around industrial cooling has shifted. It’s no longer just about achieving the right temperature, it’s about how efficiently, sustainably, and cost-effectively that cooling is delivered.

Rising energy costs, increasing environmental regulation, and growing scrutiny of carbon emissions all combine to lead businesses to reassess traditional cooling methods. And industrial adiabatic cooling is emerging as a compelling alternative to conventional refrigerant-based air conditioning systems.

So, is it the right solution for your business premises?

Rethinking Conventional Cooling

Traditional air conditioning systems rely heavily on refrigerants and energy-intensive compressors to achieve precise temperature control. While effective, these systems come with several negatives:

High energy consumption due to continuous compressor operationHigh energy consumption due to continuous compressor operation
Environmental impact from refrigerants, many of which have high global warming potential (GWP)
Ongoing maintenance and replacement costs for refrigerant gases and system components
Significant capital investment, particularly for large-scale industrial applications

As sustainability targets tighten and operating costs rise, these factors are becoming increasingly difficult to justify.

Adiabatic cooling offers a fundamentally different approach. Instead of relying on refrigerants and compression cycles, it uses the natural process of evaporation to reduce air temperature.

The result is a simpler, more environmentally responsible cooling method, particularly suited to large, open industrial spaces including warehouses and distribution centres.

Advantages of Adiabatic Cooling

One of the most compelling benefits of adiabatic cooling is its dramatically lower energy consumption.

Because there are no compressors involved, energy use is largely limited to fans and water circulation. This can deliver:

In addition, compared to traditional air conditioning systems, adiabatic cooling typically requires:

This means reduced initial capital outlay, making it an attractive option for your business when looking to upgrade or expand your industrial cooling and temperature control systems.

In the face of escalating energy prices, this represents an immediate and long-term financial advantage.

Is Adiabatic Cooling Eco Friendly?

Adiabatic systems eliminate the need for refrigerants entirely.

This means:

As an added bonus, the lower energy demand contributes directly to reduced carbon emissions, supporting your industrial decarbonisation goals.

If you’re committed to reducing your environmental footprint, adiabatic cooling can help achieve:

By lowering both energy consumption and reliance on harmful substances, it offers a practical, immediate step toward more sustainable operations.

Is Adiabatic Cooling Better Than Air Conditioning?

Without the need for compressors or refrigerant circuits, we can reduce the system complexity you need. This leads to:

For facilities teams, this means less downtime and greater reliability.

In addition, we offer ongoing service and maintenance support throughout the lifespan of your system.

While modern refrigerant-based systems still provide superior precision for tightly controlled environments (cleanrooms, data centres, etc.), many industrial applications simply don’t require that level of control.

Adiabatic cooling delivers:

Combined with well-designed ventilation, it creates a healthier and more comfortable working environment for your team.

Adiabatic cooling is particularly effective in:

In these environments, precise temperature control is often less critical than maintaining comfortable and safe working conditions, an area where adiabatic systems excel.

Is It Right for Your Business?

Adiabatic cooling is not a one-size-fits-all solution, but for many industrial and commercial environments, it represents a clear improvement over conventional cooling methods.

At Inergy Group, we tailor our approach to every project. By understanding your facility, operational needs, and long-term goals, we can help you determine whether adiabatic cooling is the most efficient and cost-effective option for you.

Take the Next Step

If you’re looking to:

Adiabatic cooling could be the answer.

Contact Inergy Group today to explore the best solution for your business.

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What UK Facility Managers Need to Know

Inergy Guest — Thu, 04 Jun 2026 10:35:19 +0000

We can already see that 2026 will be remembered as a pivotal year for industrial and commercial HVAC in the UK. With stricter regulations, continually rising energy costs, and increasing pressure to meet ESG targets, facility managers must understand the trends shaping investment, maintenance, and upgrades.

Industrial HVAC is no longer just about keeping buildings at a comfortable temperature – it’s about efficiency, compliance, and operational resilience. In this guide, we highlight the seven trends facility managers should prioritise to stay ahead.

Ready to future-proof your facility’s HVAC systems? Contact Inergy Group today for a free consultation.

Sustainability & Regulatory Compliance

UK regulations are accelerating the transition to low-GWP refrigerants and energy-efficient HVAC systems. Non-compliance can lead to high penalties and operational disruptions. Sustainable cooling and heating are essential considerations now.

Key Sustainability Considerations:

Ensure your facility is compliant and energy-efficient—schedule a compliance review with Inergy Group.

Heat Pumps & Hybrid Systems

Heat pumps are no longer just residential solutions – they’re now viable for industrial manufacturing processes, large warehouses, and commercial campuses. Hybrid systems, which combine heat pumps with existing boilers, balance efficiency with reliability.

Benefits for Industrial Facilities:

Smart & Predictive Systems

IoT-enabled sensors, cloud-connected building automation, and AI-driven predictive maintenance are transforming industrial HVAC management.

Advantages of Smart Systems:

Maximise efficiency and reduce downtime – schedule a smart system assessment today.

Indoor Air Quality (IAQ) Goes Beyond Comfort

IAQ is no longer just a comfort feature – it directly impacts productivity, health, and regulatory compliance. Poor air quality can increase absenteeism and reduce operational efficiency.

IAQ Best Practices:

Enhance indoor air quality while reducing energy costs. Talk to Inergy Group today.

Lifecycle & Circular HVAC Solutions

Instead of full replacement, retrofitting or remanufacturing HVAC equipment extends system life, lowers costs, and reduces embodied carbon. Which will be the right choice for your facility will depend on a number of unique factors. If you’d like to discuss your options with experts to better make an informed decision, contact us directly and let us know.

Key Decision Points:

Discover circular HVAC solutions and reduce costs while meeting ESG goals.

VRF & Modular Deployment

Variable Refrigerant Flow (VRF) and modular systems allow flexible, scalable HVAC for multi-tenant and industrial spaces. These systems adapt to load variations efficiently, saving energy while maintaining comfort.

Implementation Tips:

The Takeaway for Facility Managers

The half-way point of 2026 is a perfect time to assess and future-proof your industrial HVAC systems. The most important things you can do right now are:

Ensure your facility is ready for the remainder of 2026 and beyond. Contact Inergy Group for a free industrial HVAC consultation.

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Lithium-Ion Battery Storage Safety: Why Ventilation Matters

Inergy Guest — Wed, 25 Mar 2026 09:28:46 +0000

Ensure lithium-ion battery safety with engineered ventilation. Learn why proper airflow and cooling are critical for battery storage risk management

A Growing Risk Hiding in Plain Sight

The recent fire at a vape shop in Glasgow should be a wake-up call for any business storing lithium-ion batteries.

What initially appeared to be a localised retail incident quickly escalated into a major emergency response, with extensive damage to property and disruption to the surrounding area. While investigations continue, the likely involvement of lithium-ion batteries highlights a growing and often underestimated risk.

This isn’t just a fire safety issue anymore. It’s an engineering one.

Across the UK, lithium-ion batteries are now embedded in everyday operations:

Yet many of these environments are still treated as standard storage spaces, not the high-risk zones they can quickly become.

The core challenge lies in thermal runaway – a failure mode capable of generating extreme heat, flammable gases, and rapid fire spread.

And critically, it doesn’t always start with flames.

The Gap Between Guidance and Reality

Current UK guidance is clear in principle:

“Store batteries in cool, well-ventilated areas, away from heat and ignition sources”

But in practice, “well-ventilated” is rarely defined – and even more rarely, engineered.

Too often, businesses rely on:

The result?

A hidden vulnerability that only becomes visible when something goes wrong.

Why Ventilation Is the First Line of Defence

When it comes to lithium-ion battery storage, ventilation isn’t a secondary consideration – It’s fundamental.

1. Temperature Control Reduces Failure Risk

Elevated ambient temperatures accelerate battery degradation and increase the likelihood of failure. Without controlled cooling, risk builds silently over time.

2. Gas Management Prevents Escalation

Failing batteries can release flammable gases before ignition. In confined or poorly ventilated spaces, these gases can accumulate to dangerous levels.

3. Smoke Control Protects People and Property

In a fire scenario, lithium batteries produce dense, toxic smoke and extreme heat. Without effective extract systems, evacuation, firefighting, and containment become significantly more difficult.

The Shift: From Compliance to Engineered Solutions

Forward-thinking organisations are starting to move beyond basic compliance and towards purpose-designed battery storage environments.

These typically include:

Dedicated, segregated storage areas
Independent ventilation systems with smart controls
Active temperature control with redundancy
Sensor-driven airflow response
Integration with fire detection and suppression systems

This is where HVAC design moves from a background utility to a critical safety system.

Why This Matters Now

Incidents like the one in Glasgow are increasing scrutiny from:

At the same time, battery volumes are only going in one direction – that is up.

This combination is creating a clear divide between:

In workplaces and non-domestic premises, fire safety is covered under the Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005. This places a legal duty on a designated ‘Responsible Person’ to conduct appropriate audits which includes the risks associated with lithium-ion batteries¹.

Where Specialist Expertise Makes the Difference

Designing ventilation for battery storage isn’t the same as designing for comfort or general industrial use.

It requires an understanding of:

This is exactly where Inergy Group is supporting clients across the UK delivering compliant solutions backed by the British Safety Council³.

By combining HVAC engineering expertise with real-world risk understanding, Inergy Group is supporting businesses:

Final Thoughts

Battery storage risk is evolving faster than many buildings are.

The Glasgow incident won’t be the last – but it should be the moment the industry rethinks its approach.

Because in this context, ventilation isn’t optional.

It’s the control that can make the difference between a contained issue and a major incident.

Start your Project with us

If your business stores or handles lithium-ion batteries, now is the time to ask a simple question:

Would your current environment stand up to a failure event?

If the answer isn’t clear, it’s worth a conversation.

References

1, 3, Fire Safety and Lithium Batteries: What You Need to Know | British Safety Council

2, https://internationalfireandsafetyjournal.com/

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How UK Industrial Facilities Can Achieve Net Zero with HVAC Decarbonisation

Inergy Guest — Tue, 27 Jan 2026 15:27:37 +0000

UK industrial and commercial facilities are under increasing pressure to reduce carbon emissions, cut energy costs, and meet Net Zero 2050 targets. Heating, ventilation, and cooling systems are often some of the largest contributors to a building’s carbon footprint.

For warehouses, factories, and logistics hubs, upgrading HVAC systems isn’t just about compliance, it’s about improving efficiency, reliability, and operational performance.

Inergy Group helps UK businesses decarbonise their HVAC systems with practical, phased, and commercially viable solutions. For more information, call us on 01204 929999.

Why Decarbonise Industrial HVAC?

Industrial HVAC is energy-intensive:

High energy use across large spaces with racking, mezzanines, and high ceilings
Uneven temperatures causing hot and cold spots, affecting staff and stored goods
Rising energy bills driven by outdated or inefficient equipment
Regulatory and ESG pressures requiring action on carbon emissions

Decarbonising HVAC allows facilities to lower costs, reduce carbon, and improve operational reliability, all without sacrificing performance.

How Inergy Group Supports UK Industrial Clients

Low Carbon Heating Systems

Switch from gas or oil to high-efficiency electric heaters, heat pumps, and hybrid systems.

Energy Efficient Cooling & Climate Control

Modern cooling technologies reduce energy use while maintaining optimal conditions for staff and products.

HVAC Retrofit & System Upgrades

Upgrade existing equipment to reduce emissions and extend lifespan without full replacement.

Smart Controls & Energy Management

Optimise operations with data-driven controls, predictive maintenance, and energy monitoring.

Preventive & Predictive Maintenance

Ensure long-term performance and carbon reduction through scheduled maintenance programmes.

Achieving Net Zero in Practice

Inergy Group works with UK businesses with warehouses, factories, and distribution centres to develop tailored decarbonisation roadmaps:

This phased approach ensures minimal disruption while delivering measurable reductions in energy use and carbon emissions.

Benefits for UK Industrial Operators

Contact Inergy Group

Decarbonising industrial HVAC systems isn’t just about regulatory compliance. At Inergy Group, we see it as an opportunity to improve efficiency, cut costs, and future-proof your operations.

We provide end-to-end support for UK industrial facilities looking to transition to net zero HVAC systems. Contact us today to book a free site assessment and start your journey towards low-carbon, efficient, and reliable HVAC operations.

The post How UK Industrial Facilities Can Achieve Net Zero with HVAC Decarbonisation appeared first on inergygroup.co.uk.

TM44 Air Conditioning Surveys: What You Need to Know

Inergy Guest — Fri, 09 Jan 2026 14:22:12 +0000

If your commercial air conditioning system is over 12kW, UK law requires a TM44 energy assessment – commonly called a TM44 survey. These surveys are more than just a legal requirement; they are a practical tool for ensuring your system runs efficiently, safely, and cost-effectively.

What is a TM44 Survey?

A TM44 survey is a legal inspection of commercial air conditioning systems designed to:

Assess energy efficiency
Identify faults or inefficiencies in the system
Ensure the system complies with UK building regulations

The survey results in a detailed report that includes recommendations to improve efficiency and reduce energy consumption.

Why TM44 Surveys Matter

Legal Compliance: Failing to carry out a TM44 survey can result in fines or enforcement action
Energy Efficiency: Systems that are poorly maintained or inefficient consume more electricity, increasing operational costs
Equipment Life Span: Identifying issues early helps prevent unexpected breakdowns, extending the life of your system
Environmental Responsibility: Optimising energy use reduces your carbon footprint, supporting sustainability goals

What Happens During a TM44 Survey?

Our Inergy Group certified engineers will:

Examine the air conditioning system and components
Review energy usage and efficiency
Check that the system operates safely and effectively
Produce a TM44 report with actionable recommendations

The report may highlight opportunities such as upgrading components, improving controls, or carrying out minor corrective maintenance to boost efficiency.

Who Needs a TM44 Survey?

Any commercial building with an air conditioning system over 12kW must have a TM44 survey. Systems include:

Office buildings
Retail outlets
Schools and universities
Hospitals and healthcare facilities

How Often Are TM44 Surveys Required?

The law requires a survey at least every five years for existing systems, and a report must be kept on-site. If changes, additions or upgrades are made to the system, a new survey may also be required.

Benefits of Acting Now

Stay fully compliant with UK regulations
Reduce energy bills and operational costs
Extend the life of your air conditioning system
Avoid fines and unexpected repair costs

Get ahead for 2026, there’s no better time to schedule your TM44 survey and ensure your air conditioning system is running safely, efficiently, and legally for the year ahead.

Book your TM44 survey today and gain peace of mind for your business, staff, and clients.

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