Renovated buildings · Heritage buildings

Kilmelford Church, Scotland

A listed rural church on the west coast of Scotland. Low temperatures and a very old heating system made it hard and expensive to heat, so Historic Environment Scotland advised and supported a new way of heating it. Its electricity use fell by 35%, even though the church is now used much more.

What was done

Previous works had dealt with fabric defects and dampness, and new plans for community use of the church called for a different approach to heating. An air source heat pump now provides low-level heat to the building fabric, keeping it dry at around 16°C. When the church is in use, electric infrared panels on the pews and above the circulation areas add heat for people.

Energy performance

Comparing electricity use before and after the upgrade showed a 35% reduction, even though the church is now used much more than before. Kilmelford now uses 25% less energy than similar buildings in Scotland.

Project team

• Advice and support: Historic Environment Scotland (Refurbishment Case Study 19)