Project Overview

Proton Built Environment collaborated with AHT Cooling Systems and Daikin UK to execute retail fit-outs for SPAR service stations and local supermarkets across multiple sites in the UK. These projects, with average retail floor areas ranging from 1,500 to 2,000 m², aimed to deliver sustainable, energy-efficient solutions for refrigeration, heating, and cooling. The fit-outs employed AHT’s SPI cooling system with heat recovery, along with Daikin 2-pipe cassette units for climate control.

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Scope of Work

Our scope included the following key tasks:

• Environmental Services Thermal Modelling: We carried out thermal modelling of both repurposed and new build sites to ensure optimal energy efficiency and environmental performance.

• Mechanical Services Design & Co-ordination: The design and integration of mechanical services, including heat recovery units, dry air coolers, chiller pipework, hydraulic control systems, and BMS (Building Management System) controls.

• Cooling & Heating Systems: Installation of AHT’s SPI system with heat recovery, paired with Daikin Hydro Cube, waste heat unit, and air-cooled chiller units. This setup enables simultaneous use of waste heat generated during refrigeration and freezing processes, achieving up to 40-50% energy savings.

• Refrigeration Units: Integration of KINLEY overhead freezer and MONTREAL chest freezer units, which further contributed to the energy efficiency of the refrigeration system.

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Solutions

The combination of AHT’s advanced SPI system and Daikin’s efficient heating and cooling solutions provided energy-efficient climate control across the SPAR retail spaces. Mechanical systems were meticulously designed to ensure efficient operation, and BMS integration allowed centralised control and monitoring of the systems to maximise performance and energy savings.

Energy Monitoring & Sustainability

Following the completion of each fit-out, Proton Built Environment and AHT Cooling Systems conducted thorough energy monitoring and operational analysis over different seasonal periods. This process helped fine-tune the system’s performance, ensuring that the energy savings forecasted in the design phase were realised in practice. This ongoing monitoring continues to ensure that all retail sites maintain their energy efficiency over time.

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Conclusion

The SPAR retail fit-out projects demonstrate Proton Built Environment's commitment to delivering sustainable, energy-efficient solutions. Through collaboration with AHT Cooling Systems and Daikin UK, we achieved significant energy savings while maintaining optimal environmental conditions for staff and customers alike. The integration of cutting-edge cooling and heating technologies ensures that SPAR's retail units operate efficiently and sustainably across all sites.