Are Heat Pumps Right for Your School? Proven Geo-Exchange Solutions for CF25 and Beyond
As the UK gears up for the largest dedicated investment in secondary school buildings, the £15.4 billion CF25 construction framework, decarbonising school heating systems has become an urgent priority. Many schools still rely on ageing gas boilers: inefficient, high-carbon systems that are incompatible with net-zero building targets. Heat pumps for schools offer a proven, efficient alternative to outdated gas systems, essential for meeting these net-zero requirements and CF25 procurement standards.
At Erda Energy, we design and deliver geo-exchange systems, a highly efficient form of ground source heat pump (GSHP) technology. With successful installations at major universities, including Oxford Brookes University of Dundee and the University of Sheffield, we’re now helping schools prepare for the next generation of low-carbon school heating.
Today, “zero carbon” alone isn’t enough. The choices made now will shape the energy footprint of the education sector for decades, locking in costs and emissions for years to come. It’s critical to act decisively, investing in solutions that deliver lasting impact.
Proven Technology in the Education Sector
We’ve deployed geo-exchange systems across complex live education sites, demonstrating the same requirements that CF25-funded schools will face. Here’s what that looks like in practice:
Oxford Brookes University (OBU) – Retrofit
In 2022, Oxford Brookes set out to reduce gas reliance and modernise its heating infrastructure. Erda installed a retrofit-ready geo-exchange system: 14 boreholes at 220m depth, occupying just 200m² in a busy bus lane. Despite winter works, traffic remained open and disruption was minimal.
• Delivered thousands of kWh of clean, renewable thermal energy daily
• Significantly reduced gas consumption and CO₂ emissions
• Using low-GWP refrigerants per client brief
The University of Sheffield (TUoS) – Net-Zero New Build
We also supported TUoS in reaching their net-zero heating goals with a geo-exchange system serving its Faculty of Social Sciences. The building now uses the Earth as a thermal battery, recycling waste energy, cutting emissions and improving thermal efficiency.
University of Dundee – Dual Bank Borehole Innovation
Completed in 2024, the University of Dundee installation features Erda’s new dual bank borehole design, which separates heating and cooling loops for improved efficiency and control. The geo-exchange system was constructed simultaneously with the university’s new buildings, showcasing our adaptable design’s ability to integrate seamlessly with ongoing construction projects. This collaboration minimised disruption and optimised timelines for both parties.
Why This Matters for School Heating Projects
These university installations reflect core needs shared across the school sector:
• Tight space constraints – Our systems typically require just 10% of the area needed by traditional GSHP fields
• Minimal disruption – Installations can be phased or completed during holidays
• High monitoring standards with Erda | smart – Real-time performance tracking supports DfE compliance and reporting
Whether you’re preparing a CF25 school heating bid or simply replacing an ageing boiler system, Erda’s track record with retrofit heat pump systems gives you a clear advantage.
Why Consider Heat Pumps for Your School?
• Aligned with DfE Net-Zero Schools initiative
• Compatible with PSDS funding and designed to meet CF25 framework requirements
• Long-term cost savings on energy
• Reduces exposure to volatile gas prices
• Ready for Modern Methods of Construction (MMC)
Let’s Talk Low-Carbon Heating for Schools
Erda’s ground source heat pump systems are compact, reliable, and future-ready. Whether you’re designing a new school or upgrading an existing building, we’ll help you deliver a heating solution that supports both your budget and your climate goals.
Ready to explore geo-exchange for your school? Contact us today!