Decarbonisation study for CATCH, Leeds

Our Building Performance team offered their technical expertise to deliver a decarbonisation study for CATCH, guiding them on a path to achieve Net Zero Carbon in Operation (NZCiO).

The primary objective was to minimise the building's operational carbon footprint. To achieve this, we focused on reducing energy consumption and meeting the remaining energy needs with renewable sources. Through these measures, CATCH could effectively contribute to the overall reduction of greenhouse gas emissions, align with global climate goals, and create a more sustainable and resilient facility for the community.

About CATCH

For over a decade, Community Action To Create Hope (CATCH), a registered charity in Leeds, have diligently worked with adults and young people from diverse backgrounds. Their headquarters, ARK, is a vibrant hub offering sports, creativity, learning, volunteering, and social action opportunities—serving as a safe space for the community.

Solution

To build the foundation of the study, our Building Performance team carried out initial observations during a visit to CATCH’s headquarters, complemented by thermal modelling and hand calculation studies.

We adopted a comprehensive approach to decarbonisation that encompasses all facets of the built environment, from building design and construction to ongoing operations and maintenance while thoroughly considering sustainability in all aspects.

By combining the principles of 'Be Lean, Be Clean, Be Green', we achieved a robust approach to decarbonising the existing facility. This included improving energy efficiency, transitioning to renewable and low-carbon energy sources, and adopting sustainable practices that minimise environmental impact. It was important to consider all three aspects to create a resilient energy system that addresses climate change, reduces pollution, and preserves our natural resources for future generations.

We proposed multiple solutions to help reduce carbon emissions, which culminated in us recommending: 

• Insulating external walls
• Installing a ground source heat pump to replace the current gas boiler on site as well as installing a MegaFloEco Plus hot water cylinder which would provide the domestic hot water to the building via electricity.
• Installing 34 Monocrystalline Silicon photovoltaic (PV) panels on the main roof and 18 panels on the restored classroom roof. 

By implementing these steps, CATCH can progressively improve the building's energy performance and move closer to achieving Net Zero.

The findings from our study also supported CATCH to secure a £28,000 grant from Leeds City Council to fund the PV panels required, which will reduce their carbon emissions by 23%.

This study was part of a wider project in collaboration with Stark Architects and Wrapt Homes.

Jen Hamilton, Trustee and Community Partnerships Lead, CATCH said:

“The team were very responsive right from the first site visit, engaging in a meaningful conversation about CATCH’s goals and priorities. They provided constructive feedback that helped refine our plans and delivered a detailed decarbonisation study.

As a result of their efforts, we were able to secure funding to install solar panels and battery storage, vastly reducing our energy costs—a huge help for us as a charity".