Future-proofing homes with aroTHERM plus
27th July 2026
UK: Heat pump manufacturer Vaillant is involved in a project to upgrade the heating systems in more than 300 properties owned by North Kesteven District Council in Lincolnshire.
The project, a partnership between North Kesteven District Council and heating contractors Equans UK began in August 2023. It is part of a wider effort to improve energy efficiency, reduce carbon emissions, and enhance the quality of life for residents and has seen 350+ Vaillant aroTHERM plus heat pumps installed to date.
The initiative aimed to replace outdated and inefficient systems previously installed at the properties, such as storage radiators, solid fuel, and oil-fired heating, with modern, sustainable solutions. T
Many of the properties in the council’s portfolio were rated as low as F on the EPC scale. While funding from Midland Net Zero Hub required the homes to be improved to a minimum EPC rating of C, North Kesteven District Council chose to go further, upgrading the properties to achieve at least a B rating on the EPC scale.
Vaillant aroTHERM plus heat pumps and sensoCOMFORT controls were chosen as the cornerstone of the upgrade. The project also included the integration of solar photovoltaic (PV) panels and 2.4kW battery storage systems, further enhancing energy efficiency and sustainability.
Ahead of work commencing, each property was assessed individually to tailor the solution to the specific needs of the residents and the building’s structure. In addition to the heat pumps and solar systems, some homes received loft and cavity wall insulation to further maximise energy efficiency.
“By combining heat pumps with solar PV and battery storage, we’ve been able to significantly improve the energy performance of these homes while helping residents reduce their energy costs and carbon footprint,” said Adam Evans, Equans UK’s mechanical project manager.
The project plans to upgrade an additional 300-400 properties over the next few years. Equans UK has also expanded its efforts to other housing authorities and associations in the East Midlands, including the City of Lincoln Council.
