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

Copy Of Copy Of Consultation On EN378

Call for Members’ to respond to Consultation on prEN378

21 Jul 2025

We encourage all members to engage in the consultation process by reading the draft standard and submitting comments through the on-line BSI portal, or by sending comments back to the Institute Technical Committee who will collate the comments and submit them on your behalf.

Consultation
Technician App

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
P E Elections

President-Elect news 2025

29 Jul 2025

Three candidates for the next IOR President-Elect have been announced and an election will be held later this year.

News
ior logo square

Paul Moseley FInstR

24 Jul 2025

We regret to report the sad news that Paul Moseley a Fellow of the Institute and long term member has passed away

News
BR Award Logo

IOR Beyond Refrigeration Award - Now Open for Entries

21 Jul 2025

The IOR is calling for submissions for the Beyond Refrigeration Environmental Award! This prestigious annual award celebrates innovative UK projects that are making a real impact by cutting environmental emissions from cooling systems, driving us closer to vital net-zero goals.

Environment