Smart Energy Projects Represents HVAC Industry at Retrofit Green Skills Forum

Smart Energy Projects was proud to participate in the Retrofit Green Skills Employer Forum, hosted by the East Midlands Chamber and Bolsover District Council. The event brought together local authorities, colleges, training providers, and business leaders to discuss how regional employers can accelerate the transition to Net Zero.

Representing the HVAC sector, Ashley Towndrow, Surveyor and Non-Domestic Energy Assessor at Smart Energy Projects. Ashley delivered a focused presentation titled “The Role of HVAC in Retrofit.” His talk helped Chamber members understand how heating, ventilation, and cooling systems, particularly air-to-air source heat pumps, can play a vital role in achieving sustainability goals while reducing running costs.

Helping Businesses Cut Costs and Carbon

During the session, Ashley shared practical insights from real projects across the region. He highlighted that HVAC typically accounts for 30–40% of a commercial building’s total energy use. He explained that air-to-air source heating systems now offer one of the most straightforward and scalable routes to lower energy bills and carbon emissions. This is especially true in existing buildings, where traditional wet heating upgrades may not be practical.

“For many SMEs, air-to-air systems deliver the biggest impact with the least disruption,” Ashley told attendees.
“They use electricity efficiently, provide both heating and cooling, and can cut total energy consumption dramatically compared with older gas or electric systems.”

From Compliance to Opportunity

Ashley also emphasized the importance of TM44 air-conditioning inspections, a legal requirement often overlooked by businesses. Far from being a simple tick-box exercise, a TM44 assessment can reveal wasted energy, faulty controls, and upgrade opportunities—all of which translate into real cost savings.

“We encourage local businesses to see TM44 as a roadmap for improvement, not a regulation to endure,” Ashley said.
“It’s often the first step in a successful retrofit journey.”

Regional Leadership in Sustainability

The Chesterfield event was part of the Chamber’s Sustainable East Midlands initiative, which is building local capability and green skills in retrofit. Smart Energy Projects’ participation reflects the company’s commitment to supporting regional growth and helping East Midlands organizations make practical, affordable progress toward Net Zero.

Ashley closed his session with a clear message:

“Decarbonisation doesn’t have to be complicated. By starting with heating and cooling—where the biggest energy savings lie—businesses can make immediate, measurable progress toward both environmental and financial goals.”

Find Out More

For Chamber members interested in air-to-air source heating or ventilation upgrades, Smart Energy Projects offers:

• TM44 inspections and efficiency assessments

• Air-to-air and air-to-water heat pump design and installation

• Ventilation and MVHR systems (e.g., Duco)

• Planned maintenance and retrofit support

📞 Smart Energy Projects
T: 01162 396 890 / 01773 301 300
E: ashleyt@smartenergyprojects.co.uk