This project involved a feasibility study to evaluate the implementation of active heat recovery within an existing academic building connected to a high-temperature district energy system. The study focused on retrofitting a passive run-around heat recovery loop to a dedicated heat recovery chiller, with analysis of multiple temperature lift scenarios to support sub-cooling of exhaust air and integration with the building’s heating system.
AME provided mechanical consulting services to assess system options, including evaluation of specialized heat recovery chillers capable of operating with low-carbon refrigerant and achieving supply temperatures exceeding 80°C. The work considered compatibility with existing infrastructure and the performance implications of integrating active heat recovery within a district energy context.
The study identified viable strategies to reduce reliance on natural gas within the district heating plant and supported funding through a provincial incentive program, contributing to lower carbon energy use and improved system efficiency.