The Future Homes Standard is nearly upon us; a set of legally binding mandates that the UK’s housebuilding market will need to comply with to help the country reduce carbon emissions and meet its net zero goals.

But what does this mean for heat and hot water delivery into new build homes?  The renewables sector is constantly innovating and delivering low carbon heat solutions into the market.  This article looks at how heat networks can meet the Future Homes Standard, lower costs for housebuilders and lower bills for consumers – all while reducing visual impacts on the landscaping of a development and the overall external aesthetics of each new home.

Neal Herbert, GTC Managing Director looks at how tried and tested ground source heat pumps, when installed as a part of an overall heat network, can deliver against the Future Homes Standard.

As the low carbon energy transition becomes compulsory as opposed to optional, the utilities sector is proffering multiple solutions to help housebuilders meet regulation and highlight compliance.  In this article we look at one option that exceeds the Future Homes Standard energy targets, reduces costs for both developers and homeowners, all without the need for expensive grid upgrades or reinforcement.  

Networked ground source heat pumps are the solution of choice for housebuilders and architects alike who are looking for a solution with minimal visual impact in terms of development landscaping, and increased curb side appeal, while simultaneously delivering against their low carbon goals.

This scalable solution is suitable for both large and small, residential and commercial developments.  The installation process begins with the early drilling of boreholes during the build programme, typically alongside the carriageway. Depending on the site design, these boreholes are drilled to depths of 150 to 200 metres.

A continuous loop of pipe is then inserted into each borehole and backfilled with thermally conductive material, ensuring consistent heat transfer between the ground and the fluid in the pipes. Once the property foundations are in place, service trenches are dug to allow other utilities to be installed. The flow and return pipework from the boreholes are then connected to central manifolds using standard fusion weld fittings.  Additional flow and return pipework extend from the manifold into each property via a service duct, ready for connection to the ground source heat pump.

The heat pump’s compact design allows it to be easily installed and tucked away inside the home, with the flexibility to position it where it best suits the property’s design. With no box installed outside, the visual appearance of the home is unaffected, and no garden space is used up.  When activated, the heat pump collects ambient heat from the ground and converts it into heating and hot water.  For every one kilowatt of electricity, the heat pump generates three to four kilowattgtcs of heat. Providing 100% of the property’s heating and hot water needs throughout the year. That’s five times more efficient than gas and 30% more efficient than individual air source heat pumps.

Optional passive cooling can be easily added for year-round comfort. This cooling operates through fan coil units installed in selected rooms and is controlled via a smart thermostat. Crucially the inclusion of passive cooling helps Part O Building Regulation compliance.

Homeowners will also benefit from lower heat and hot water costs through a simple monthly community heat charge, which is like a gas standing charge, but without the seasonal variations or cold weather premiums.  Networked ground source heat pumps offer consumers year-round efficiency – with a constant ground temperature, the pumps maintain high levels throughout the year and are not impacted by the air temperature, even when it’s freezing cold outside.

What does this mean for architects when specifying for housebuilders and developers?

Design Flexibility: Architects must incorporate sustainable, low-carbon technologies that align with the Future Homes Standard while balancing aesthetics and functionality. Networked ground source heat pumps are compact, reducing the need for external equipment, while enhancing design.

Energy Efficiency: Low-carbon building materials, enhanced insulation, and efficient heating/cooling systems are essential to achieve high-energy performance, all while reducing reliance on the grid.

Renewable Integration: Designs must support renewable energy systems like solar panels and ground source heat pumps, aligning with the UK’s push toward renewable-ready homes.

Heat networks offer architects a low-carbon solution that align with sustainable building designs and meet the Future Homes Standard.  By integrating heat networks like networked ground source heat pumps, architects can design neighbourhoods that achieve compliance and aesthetic appeal, while offering long-term sustainability, supporting the UK in its drive towards net zero.