-
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
New Technician Good Practice Guides Available
6 Nov 2025
Topics of the new bulletins include direct expansion water-to-refrigerant evaporators, electrical safe isolation and determining the wattage of electric heaters.
Publication
GB F Gas consultation launched by DEFRA
5 Nov 2025
The outcomes will be used to shape future legislation for our sector. Take part in this consultation to make the views of the RACHP industry heard. Industry groups will be coordinating a response through ACRIB (Air Conditioning and Refrigeration Industry Board).
News
Talk on the Future of Compressors Now Available
5 Nov 2025
The talk by Prof. Ahmed Kovacevic, FREng on emerging technologies in compressors and their systems is now available from the IOR website.
Recording
IOR’s Committees Share Achievements and Plans
3 Nov 2025
On 29 October, the IOR members met to share their reports on activity, plans and strategies for the future. Seven IOR committees met, including Membership, Education, Environment, Technical, Engineering Technician Group, Women in RACHP, and the Dinner Committee.
Live event
IOR 2025 Election Results Announced
29 Oct 2025
At the IOR Annual General Meeting held on 29 October 2025, election results were announced. Stephen Gill FInstR was voted President-Elect, and Stephen Benton FInstR together with David Bostock FInstR were elected as Trustees to the IOR Board.
NewsSitemap
