Lower your carbon emissions with a ground source heat pump
Rising energy costs and tightening net zero obligations are pushing commercial property owners and businesses to look beyond conventional heating systems. Ground source heat pumps offer a proven, low-carbon alternative that can significantly reduce energy costs, lower carbon emissions, and improve the long-term value of a commercial building.
Our decarbonisation and sustainability specialists can assess your site's suitability for a ground source heat pump, manage the installation process, and help you access the grants and tax reliefs available to commercial operators. Simply complete our contact form, call 0800 051 2593, or email [email protected] to discuss your needs with our team.
How do ground source heat pumps work?
Ground source heat pumps extract thermal energy stored naturally in the ground and use it to heat buildings and provide hot water. Unlike fossil fuel boilers, they do not burn fuel to generate heat. Instead, they move heat from one place to another, making them significantly more efficient.
The system works by circulating a fluid through a network of pipes buried in the ground – either in horizontal trenches or vertical boreholes, depending on the available land and site conditions. The fluid absorbs heat from the ground, which maintains a relatively constant temperature year-round, and carries it to a heat pump unit inside the building. The pump then concentrates this energy and distributes it through the building's heating system.
A typical commercial ground source heat pump installation includes:
- Ground loop – A network of buried pipes (horizontal or vertical) that extract heat from the ground.
- Heat pump unit – The indoor unit that concentrates extracted heat and distributes it into the building.
- Heat distribution system – Typically underfloor heating or low-temperature radiators, which work most efficiently with heat pumps.
- Controls and monitoring – Managing system performance and energy output.
- Hot water cylinder (where required) – For buildings that require domestic hot water as well as space heating.
What are the benefits of ground source heat pumps for commercial buildings?
Reduced energy costs
Ground source heat pumps typically deliver three to four units of heat for every unit of electricity consumed. This is a coefficient of performance (CoP) that significantly outperforms gas or oil boilers and reduces ongoing heating costs.
Lower carbon emissions
By replacing fossil fuel heating with a low-carbon renewable system, ground source heat pumps can substantially reduce a building's carbon footprint, supporting compliance with MEES regulations, net zero commitments, and ESG reporting requirements.
Improved EPC rating
Installing a ground source heat pump can materially improve a building's Energy Performance Certificate rating, which is increasingly important for commercial landlords facing minimum energy efficiency standards and occupier demand for sustainable space.
Enhanced property value
Buildings with low-carbon heating systems are becoming more attractive to buyers, tenants, and lenders who prioritise energy efficiency and sustainability credentials.
Energy security
Reducing dependence on gas and oil protects your business from energy market volatility and price fluctuations – particularly relevant for energy-intensive commercial operations.
Long-term performance
Ground source heat pump systems have an operational lifespan of 20 to 25 years with relatively low maintenance requirements, providing long-term cost certainty once installed.
“Ground source heat pumps represent one of the most effective low-carbon heating solutions available to commercial property owners. With the right site assessment and system design, they can deliver significant reductions in both energy costs and carbon emissions – and increasingly, they are becoming a key factor in meeting occupier and investor expectations around sustainability.”
Is my commercial building suitable for a ground source heat pump?
Suitability depends on several factors, and a professional assessment is the essential first step. Key considerations include:
- Available land – Horizontal ground loops require sufficient outdoor space; where land is limited, vertical boreholes can be drilled to greater depth on a smaller footprint.
- Ground conditions – Soil type, geology, and groundwater levels all affect heat extraction efficiency and installation method.
- Existing heating system – Ground source heat pumps work best with low-temperature distribution systems such as underfloor heating; existing high-temperature radiator systems may require modification.
- Building fabric – A well-insulated building will maximise the efficiency and cost-effectiveness of the system.
- Planning requirements – Borehole installations may require planning permission depending on location and site constraints.
How can BTG Eddisons help?
Our building consultancy and decarbonisation teams provide end-to-end support throughout your ground source heat pump project:
- Feasibility assessment – Evaluating site conditions, ground loop options, building fabric, and existing heating infrastructure to determine suitability and likely performance.
- Grant applications – Preparing and submitting funding applications to maximise your chances of securing available grants and incentives.
- System design – Working with you to specify a system sized correctly for your building's heating demand and energy objectives.
- Procurement – Helping you select reputable installers and negotiate competitive pricing.
- Project management – Overseeing planning permissions, installation, and commissioning to ensure quality and compliance at every stage
- Ongoing support – Arranging maintenance contracts and performance monitoring to protect your investment over the long term.
Discuss a ground source heat pump installation with us
We offer turnkey solutions for commercial landlords and businesses wanting to install ground source heat pumps. Please call 0800 051 2593 or email [email protected] to get started.
Why choose BTG Eddisons for ground source heat pumps?
- Over 180 years of experience in the property and construction sector, with a dedicated sustainability team specialising in commercial decarbonisation.
- RICS-accredited professionals operating to the highest industry standards across building consultancy and project management.
- End-to-end support from initial feasibility through to installation, commissioning, and ongoing performance monitoring.
- Proven track record of successful decarbonisation and renewable energy project delivery for commercial clients.
- Grant application expertise. Our team understands the funding landscape and helps clients access available incentives.
- Strong client reviews reflecting our commitment to quality service and practical, outcome-focused advice.
Speak to our decarbonisation team
If you are ready to explore whether a ground source heat pump is right for your commercial building, our specialists are here to help. Just call 0800 051 2593, email [email protected], or complete the form below to discuss your needs today.
Get in touch with the BTG Eddisons team
Please contact us for more details and information.
Frequently asked questions about ground source heat pumps for commercial buildings
What is the difference between a ground source and an air source heat pump?
A ground source heat pump extracts heat from the ground via buried pipework, while an air source heat pump extracts heat from the outdoor air. Ground source systems generally achieve higher efficiency because ground temperatures are more stable year-round than air temperatures.
However, they require more space for installation and typically involve higher upfront costs. Our team can advise on which system is more appropriate for your building and site.
