EDF Energy, the UK arm of Electricite de France, has revealed that its green fund is to provide a GBP30,000 grant to install air source heat pumps in two community centers in Kent, UK. Denton village hall, near Canterbury, and the Crundwell Road community center in Southborough will share the fund.
EDF Energy said that air source heat pumps, a lesser-established renewable technology, absorb thermal energy and upgrade it to a higher temperature that can then be used for heating. The utility said that the equipment will replace the oil and electric heating systems currently used in the two community halls.
According to EDF Energy, the investment will allow the two sites to trial microgeneration technology to reduce their energy bills and their carbon footprint. Peter Hofman, EDF Energy’s director of sustainable future, said: Village halls are perfectly placed to showcase energy efficiencies and sustainable energy in the community as well as raise awareness of global warming.
EDF Energy said that, whereas a typical community building emits 10 tonnes of carbon dioxide annually, the air pumps can cut such emissions to approximately three tonnes. In addition, the equipment could reduce fuel use and carbon emissions by up to 60%.
The utility said that, as well as its GBP30,000 grant, the project will also be supported by an extra GBP7,000 from National Energy Action, the organization that will provide project support for the improvements to the buildings.