The project, led by Built Environment – Smarter Transformation (BE-ST) and supported by the Scottish Government’s Public Sector Heat Decarbonisation Fund, was developed in collaboration with John Gilbert Architects (JGA), Brown + Wallace, Luths Services, and Narro and delivered by main contractor Clark Contracts.

Scotland’s National Retrofit Centre now features the UK’s first zero-carbon heating system of its kind, combining air, ground and solar energy in an integrated solution from NIBE Energy Systems Limited and PREAH.

The project marks the first phase of retrofit and refurbishment works that will take place across BE-ST Innovation Campus, aiming to decarbonise the campus to achieve the International EnerPHit standard and the Scottish Net Zero Public Sector Building targets.

Taking a fabric first approach, the retrofit focused on improving the thermal efficiency of the building fabric through increased insulation and airtightness measures within the building’s heated spaces and transitioning from a gas-based heating system to a first-of-its-kind zero direct emissions system which integrated multiple systems and approaches, including hybrid heat pump systems, supported by solar PV and thermal array, mechanical ventilation with heat recovery, as well as energy-efficient lighting and controls.

Gerry Cummins, director at Clark Contracts, said: “This project’s recognition reflects the importance of retrofit work in advancing sustainability across the construction sector. It’s encouraging to see the impact of this initiative acknowledged by industry peers.”

The award was presented in December 2025 at the Energy Saving Awards, organised by leading industry publications Plumbing, Heating & Air Movement News (PHAM News) and Energy in Buildings & Industry (EiBI), part of Datateam Business Media, which celebrate excellence across the plumbing, HVAC and energy management sectors.