-
Technical
Cooling systems generate large amounts of waste heat, but most of that heat goes unused. A new research project led aims to transform that by identifying and mapping waste heat from urban cooling applications, using Birmingham as a case study.
The Waste Heat Assessment and Resource Mapping (WHARM) project, funded by the EPSRC through the Reef-UKC network, will produce a georeferenced database on energy-intensive sectors such as data centres, supermarkets, cold storage facilities and industrial sites to better understand their waste heat generation and the potential for reuse on site or “export” to neighbours. EPSRC is a funding body for engineering and physical sciences research in the UK, supporting innovations that drive a sustainable and resilient economy. WHARM is a partnership between LSBU, Aston University, Birmingham City Council, Star Refrigeration, and Skilled Mapping.
Project Objectives:
- Identify, map and characterise waste heat from cooling systems in Birmingham.
- Produce economic models to quantify the levelised costs of capturing and upgrading waste heat to different temperature levels.
- Engage with stakeholders to identify challenges such as high costs, uncertainty over business models, and mismatch between heat supply and demand.
- Support local authorities and businesses in making informed decisions when assessing waste heat opportunities.
Recent posts
IOR On BBC Regional Breakfast Show
14 Jul 2025
IOR President Lisa-Jayne Cook FInstR was invited to discuss the increasing number of homes equipped with air conditioning on BBC Leicester's Breakfast Show.
News
IOR RACHP EngTech Section Launches New Technician App
10 Jul 2025
The IOR’s RACHP EngTech Section is proud to announce the launch of an innovative mobile technician’s app, now available on the Apple App Store and Google Play Store.
News
IOR Masterclasses Recording Available
9 Jul 2025
From intermediate PH diagrams to coldroom sizing and equipment selection, the library of IOR Masterclasses keeps growing! Watch the recordings anytime, anywhere on the IOR webinar channel.
Recording
Apply to Join the IOR Board of Trustees
9 Jul 2025
Make sure you get your application form in by 1st August to stand for the IOR’s Trustees Elections held in the autumn.
News
Call for Members’ Input for Consultation on EN378
8 Jul 2025
The revised EN378 standard is now open for public consultation until 26 August 2025.
ConsultationSitemap
-
Membership
-
Technical
-
Environment
-
Education
-
Quick Links - Education and Careers
-
Qualifications and Apprenticeships
-
IOR E-Learning programmes
-
Careers Information and Resources
-
How does a fridge work?
-
Find Local Training
-
Presidents Fund for Education
-
CPD Resources for Technicians
-
FantasticPuzzles
-
masterclasses
-
All things STEM resources, ambassadors and more
-
-
Networking
-
Events
-
About
-
Shop
