Clade wins Net Zero Hero at the HVR Awards 2026
We’re delighted to have won the Net Zero Hero category at the HVR Awards 2026 for our work helping David Lloyd Clubs Harrogate transition from gas-fired heating to natural refrigerant heat pumps.
The category recognises HVAC companies that have made a significant contribution to introducing low carbon technology into commercial or residential buildings, reducing carbon emissions in line with net zero targets. It considers the benefits to industry, the environment and the community, alongside measurable results and customer feedback.
For us, this award recognises the complete approach behind the Harrogate project: combining engineering, finance and ongoing support to make low carbon heating work in a busy commercial building.
Tackling a demanding retrofit
With a swimming pool, gym, sauna, steam room and multiple fitness studios, David Lloyd Clubs Harrogate has substantial and varied heating requirements. The goal was to replace its gas boilers with a system designed to reduce annual carbon emissions by 254 tonnes, without disrupting members or compromising heating and hot water performance.
We managed the project from feasibility and detailed design through to installation and commissioning. This included securing electricity network approval without requiring upgrades to the local grid.
We installed two of our Rowan R290 air source heat pumps, each capable of delivering 240kW at a 60°C flow temperature, even at outdoor temperatures of -5°C. Their natural refrigerant, propane, has an ultra-low Global Warming Potential, helping minimise the climate impact.
Our Master Controller integrates with the existing building management system to optimise operation. Acoustic fencing and adjustments to night-time operation also helped address the needs of neighbouring residents.
Reducing waste and overcoming financial barriers
We retained the club’s existing air handling units, radiators and pool heat exchangers, reducing costs and avoiding unnecessary waste. The gas boilers remained operational until the new system was fully commissioned, allowing the club to operate normally throughout installation.
Our Heat-as-a-Service financing option removed the need for upfront capital expenditure while incorporating ongoing servicing and maintenance support. Together, these measures helped make the transition practical for the customer.
Demonstrating results
Six months into operation, monitoring showed a Coefficient of Performance between 2.5 and 3.2 (meaning the system delivered between 2.5 and 3.2 units of useful heat for every unit of electricity consumed), meeting our design expectations.
Customer feedback has been equally encouraging. Lee Manley, Head of Sustainability at David Lloyd Clubs, said: “The Clade team were great to work with, they made the process as easy as it could be and did not interrupt our club operations. We’re very pleased with the heat pumps so far, they have been reliable and consistently kept the club warm.”
Our service team continues to support the installation and optimise performance.
Winning Net Zero Hero is a welcome recognition of everyone involved. The project offers a model for other health clubs, leisure centres, hotels and commercial buildings with demanding heating needs. We’re proud to demonstrate how careful design and long-term support can help more organisations put their net zero ambitions into practice.