University Hospitals of North Midlands NHS Trust – Multiple Projects

The NHS is targeting Net Zero emissions by 2040. To support this ambition, University Hospitals of North Midlands NHS Trust set out to decarbonise five energy-intensive buildings without disrupting clinical services.

We partnered with the Trust and its maintenance teams to deliver a practical, building-by-building decarbonisation strategy.

Decarbonisation made practical

Our interdisciplinary team – covering building services engineering, cost management, project management and sustainability – replaced ageing gas systems with efficient air-to-water heat pumps across five buildings, including the Academy, the Undergraduate Medical School and the Clinical Sterile Services Department.

At the Clinical Sterile Services Department, we designed an electric boiler system capable of producing steam at around 165°C for sterilising equipment. The plant is located just 20 metres from where it’s needed. Previously, steam was generated half a mile away and piped to the building, with condensate pumped all the way back, an inefficient process now removed entirely.

By analysing the heating systems in each building, we kept disruption low and identified the adjustments needed to integrate the new technology. We also provided planning, structural and acoustic expertise, giving the Trust one coordinated team for the whole programme.

Carbon savings, energy gains

The programme delivered major reductions in carbon and energy use. Replacing 1.8MW of gas-fired heating with modern heat pumps cut fossil fuel consumption by roughly 1,600 MWh a year. Each upgrade supports the Trust’s net zero strategy while maintaining clinical performance and patient comfort.

A future-ready NHS

The upgraded systems now provide a resilient, energy-efficient foundation for the Trust’s estate. Our coordinated approach streamlined delivery and proved that decarbonisation can happen without disrupting essential services. This programme creates a clear precedent for wider carbon reduction work across the NHS.