Phoenix Centre
Project Overview
Hills Energy Management Solutions delivered a modern BMS installation for an NHS mental health clinic. The new system enhances energy efficiency, safety compliance, and operational control, meeting NHS Net Zero objectives while laying the foundation for long-term lifecycle performance and strategic energy management.
The BMS controls a high-efficiency wall-mounted condensing boiler with integral shunt pump, a weather-compensated VT radiator circuit with a twin pump set (duty/standby), a gas solenoid valve, and a pressurisation unit.
Intelligent Heating Control
At the core of the installation is a weather compensated control strategy. The BMS adjusts radiator flow temperature based on outdoor conditions and internal demand, helping avoid overheating and improving occupant comfort.
The VT circuit uses a compensated DeltaT control strategy, where the temperature drop across the flow and return is monitored and used to guide the heating response. This ensures stable operation while reducing unnecessary energy use.
The boiler itself operates with a user adjustable boiler return temperature setpoint of between 40-55DegC, aiming to keep return water below 55°C and enabling condensing mode. This results in up to 12% seasonal efficiency gains, aligning with Part L of the Building Regulations and contributing to improved Display Energy Certificates (DECs) and Energy Performance Certificates (EPCs).
Built-in Safety and Resilience
Gas safety and plantroom resilience were key priorities. The BMS monitors carbon monoxide (ppm) and natural gas (LEL%) levels, automatically closing the gas solenoid valve if thresholds are exceeded. Live readings are logged and displayed on the BMS screen, ensuring compliance with gas safety legislation and audit readiness for Estates and FM teams.
The fire alarm is interlocked with the gas solenoid valve, and a key operated bypass switch has been installed on the control panel to allow weekly fire alarm testing without shutting down the heating system. In line with BS 9999:2017, only one test per month is required to demonstrate gas shutdown, so this approach avoids unnecessary heating interruptions and call outs while maintaining full life safety compliance.
Energy Management and Strategic Compliance
Although no energy sub-metering is currently connected, the BMS is fully compatible with energy monitoring in line with CIBSE TM39 and ESOS. All key temperatures, temperature setpoints, system run times, and plant status are already logged supporting strategic energy planning and data driven optimisation.
The installation is designed to support ISO 50001 energy management systems, enabling NHS Trusts to meet their reporting and performance improvement obligations.
By enabling condensing boiler performance, weather compensation, and future data integration, the system actively contributes to the NHS Net Zero Building Standard, supporting reduced emissions across the estate.
Post-Handover Support and Soft Landings Approach
The project has been delivered in line with BSRIA BG 54 – Soft Landings, with commissioning, documentation, and training built in. Post-handover support includes tuning the system based on real-world performance and user feedback via linking the new BMS to our remote internet access platform.
This approach is also consistent with Government Soft Landings, aligning operational outcomes with design intent, ensuring long-term building performance is not only specified but delivered.
Outcome for NHS and Stakeholders
The clinic now benefits from a BMS that improves control, comfort, and compliance. For estates and facilities managers, the system provides live data, alarm visibility, and easier diagnostics. For property managers and building consultants, it supports improved lifecycle performance, future audit readiness, and NHS carbon reduction goals.
This installation is a practical example of how modern BMS design delivers not only better environmental control, but also safety assurance, regulatory alignment, and a scalable platform for net-zero-ready healthcare estates.
