Primary school heated by the only thermal spring in Wales

The only natural thermal spa in Wales is now providing heat to two council-owned buildings in South Wales, thanks to an innovative heating system installed by Kensa.

The new heat source for Ffynnon Taf Primary School and Taff’s Well Bowling Club draws on the warm waters of Taff’s Well using a complex open loop water source system.

Paradoxically, in this water-based installation, Kensa are using ground source heat pumps. The spring water, which emerges from the ground at around 21° C, is pumped from the spring before passing through a heat exchanger, which is connected to Kensa’s ground source heat pumps housed inside the school and the pavilion at the bowling club.

By having heat pumps installed in the separate buildings, the need for a central plantroom is avoided, giving each control over its own heating.

Heat energy stored in the warm spring water is absorbed and converted by the heat pumps into usable energy for the heating and hot water systems in the two buildings.

While in the system, the water is confined to its own pipework, hidden out of sight below ground and, after passing through the system, is emptied back into the Well’s overflow, which emerges on the eastern bank of the River Taff.

Matt Zealley, Sales Manager at Kensa Contracting, said: ‘The council was keen to utilise the well as it provides an unlimited amount of free renewable energy that was just flowing straight into the River Taff. The local school and bowls pavilion were the obvious beneficiaries of this system as they are located so close to the well.

‘The installation of the heat pump system in the well has not only relieved the school and pavilion of its gas dependency, it has reduced the carbon output from their heating systems by around 80%. With the heat pumps producing no emissions or pollution, this scheme will also have had a positive impact on the air quality for the pupils and the local community.’

Jill Bonetto, Rhondda-Cynon-Taf County Councillor, Taff’s Well Ward, said: ‘The system at Taff’s Well is providing a unique usage of the only thermal spring in Wales which combines the history of the Spring and the new technology of today’s era. As Chair of The Friends of Taff’s Well Park and Thermal Spring and the local County Councillor I welcome the innovative use of the waters of the well to heat both the school and the Park Pavilion. Using green energy is the way forward and Taff’s Well Ward welcomes and is supportive of the heat exchange project and pleased to have been involved in its conception.’