The Role of AC and MVHR in Delivering Net Zero Buildings for Developers and Contractors

Net Zero is not a future goal. It is a requirement now shaping how buildings are designed, built and operated across Hampshire, Berkshire and Surrey.

Developers, main contractors and architects are under pressure to reduce emissions, meet ESG targets and align with UK Net Zero guidance. Yet many underestimate how air conditioning and mechanical ventilation systems affect the carbon profile of a building.

This blog explains how to use the right AC and MVHR strategy to support Net Zero outcomes from design to operation.

Why AC and MVHR matter for Net Zero

Heating, ventilation and air conditioning can account for over 40 percent of a building’s operational energy use according to the Carbon Trust. Poorly specified systems lead to:

• Higher energy bills and emissions
• Inconsistent thermal comfort and complaints
• Missed SBEM or SAP targets
• Difficulty achieving BREEAM or LEED scores
• Increased rework after compliance checks

To meet Net Zero expectations, your AC and MVHR design must be optimised early.

How to design for carbon and performance

Working with the right AC partner helps you:

• Choose low-GWP refrigerants that reduce environmental impact
• Use heat recovery ventilation to reduce heating loads
• Integrate variable speed controls to match real occupancy
• Ensure duct routes and airflows are efficient and balanced
• Achieve TM44 and F-Gas compliance from day one

Incorporating Building Regulations Part L and Part F at design stage avoids rework and enables smoother sign-off.

Real project examples

Winchester office retrofit (Spring 2024)

A commercial client needed to decarbonise a 1990s office. ClimateWorks removed ageing split systems and installed new low-GWP inverter units with heat recovery ventilation. The building’s EPC improved from E to B, enabling re-let to ESG-focused tenants.

Oxfordshire mixed-use site (Q4 2023)

We supported a developer targeting Net Zero in use. Systems were specified with demand-based control, MVHR with 80 percent efficiency and R32 refrigerant. Energy modelling confirmed performance before construction started. Planning officers approved the proposal without condition.

Guildford residential block (Ongoing)

ClimateWorks is delivering AC and MVHR systems across 28 flats. Units are zoned for day and night efficiency. Every system will be logged into a single digital asset register for lifecycle carbon tracking.

Endorsements from the industry

“ClimateWorks helped us avoid default SBEM penalties by advising on realistic system inputs during pre-construction. They saved us weeks.”
Design Manager, Oxfordshire developer (2023)

“We achieved Net Zero targets on our Winchester scheme in part due to their advice on system selection and commissioning.”
Project Director, Hampshire contractor (2024)

Compliance benefits

• Avoid penalties for refrigerant use and leakage
• Provide evidence for Part L and SAP calculations
• Ensure TM44 and F-Gas readiness at handover
• Enable ESG and Net Zero reporting with performance data
• Meet planning conditions related to emissions and plant noise

Our work helps developers satisfy planning authorities and funders across towns like Reading, Andover and Farnham.

Your next steps

To meet Net Zero with confidence:

• Involve your AC partner from Stage 2 of design
• Use lifecycle emissions data in system selection
• Include heat recovery and demand-based controls
• Log and register all systems for F-Gas and maintenance
• Align installs with your ESG documentation and reporting framework

Whether you are working on one site or a national portfolio, getting this right protects long-term asset value.

About the author

Dr. Julian Carter
Thermal Systems Expert and Technical Advisor at ClimateWorks

Dr. Julian Carter is a highly experienced thermal systems expert with over 15 years in the field, holding a PhD in thermal systems. His career spans academic research, consulting and teaching, focusing on air conditioning and refrigeration systems. Dr. Carter bridges the gap between theoretical advancements and practical applications, providing expert insights to organisations like ClimateWorks, where his guidance informs decision-making and industry best practices. Notably, he has worked on international projects with organisations such as Daikin Industries, the International Institute of Refrigeration (IIR), and the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP). Currently a lecturer at Edinburgh University, Dr. Carter combines his expertise with a passion for educating the next generation of engineers and advancing climate control technologies.

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