Energy Management at the UK Atomic Energy Authority: Precision Metering and BMS Solutions

Client Overview: UK Atomic Energy Authority

The UK Atomic Energy Authority (UKAEA) is a prestigious public sector organisation at the forefront of nuclear energy research. Based at the Culham Science Centre in Oxfordshire, the UKAEA operates a 40-building campus dedicated to advancing nuclear fusion and related technologies. This site is home to cutting-edge science and innovation, making it crucial that their facilities are managed with utmost efficiency and precision.

Challenge

As part of a new-build project on the UKAEA campus, the challenge was to deliver a sophisticated Building Management System (BMS) and metering solution to optimise the energy, water, and heat usage within the facility. Given the scope of the UKAEA’s scientific operations, it was vital that their buildings operated at maximum efficiency to support ongoing research activities, while also ensuring responsible energy use.

Solution

Combined Services provided a comprehensive BMS and metering solution for the new-build facility at the UKAEA’s Culham Science Centre. Our work included:

• BMS Design and Installation: We designed and installed an advanced BMS tailored to the unique requirements of UKAEA’s research facilities. The system allows for precise control over the building's HVAC and lighting systems, ensuring energy efficiency without compromising the operational needs of the research teams. The solution was built to be scalable, allowing for future integrations across other buildings in the campus.
• Advanced Metering Service: We implemented a detailed metering solution that provides the UKAEA’s facilities team with real-time data on energy, water, and heat usage. This data allows the team to make informed interventions to keep consumption at a minimum and to maintain energy efficiency throughout the building.

Results

The new metering system has provided the UKAEA with unparalleled visibility into their facility’s resource consumption. With the real-time data available, the facilities team can now make proactive adjustments to maintain efficiency, ensuring the building operates at peak performance. Combined Services continues to work with UKAEA on improving the efficiency of other buildings within the 40-building campus, contributing to the Authority’s commitment to sustainable energy management.