11 Mounts Bay Road – building electrification, Perth, WA

11 Mounts Bay is currently undergoing a number of building upgrades to improve the overall quality of the asset, ensuring it meets the evolving needs of tenants and enhances the user experience. NDY is engaged for all services for the refurbishment works including infrastructure upgrade works, ground floor lobby, end-of-trip facilities, management office, flex space, level 5 wintergarden and lessor works.

The upgrade works include electrification of the building. A groundbreaking project in Australia’s commercial sector, the refurbishment will transform the heating system of the existing office tower from gas-fired boilers to electric heat pumps. Although the 5 storey building presents certain challenges, the team is committed to meeting global climate goals, aiming to phase out gas use and achieve net zero emissions.

The electrification scope specifies the replacement of 2 gas-fired boilers for electric heat pumps, keeping the current heating and electrical systems intact. A thorough analysis of the building’s current electrical infrastructure revealed that it could support the new electrified heating system, facilitating a smoother transition from gas to electric power. Studies were conducted to fine tune heating loads and determine suitable locations for the heat pumps within the limited space of the roof plant deck.

Notable design features include efficient power distribution provisions for the heat pumps, ensuring their operation aligns with peak load demands while optimising energy efficiency. The design incorporates smart monitoring systems to track energy consumption and performance, further enhancing the operational efficiency of the heating system. Through detailed analysis, we found that the building’s heating requirements could be halved when compared to its currently installed capacity. In addition, we discovered that reducing the heating water temperature from 75 to 55 degrees kept the building comfortably warm, demonstrating an innovative approach to managing heating demand. It was also determined that no upgrades to the building’s electrical infrastructure would be required even with the provision of the new electrically-powered plant.

Fitting the new electric heat pump units on the existing roof plant deck was challenging due to its limited space. Careful planning was essential to integrate the new systems while keeping the building’s structure intact. Collaboration with manufacturers enabled the team to find tailored solutions to the site’s unique needs. By running simulations and assessments, NDY identified the best placements for the heat pumps, ensuring efficient use of space and easy access for maintenance. This teamwork addressed space issues and ensured the upgraded heating system will operate effectively in its new setting.

By reducing gas usage and carbon emissions at 11 Mounts Bay Road, the building will be creating a healthier, greener environment that benefits both tenants and the surrounding community.