The new system was brought in as part of a major refurbishment with the overarching aim of improving the energy efficiency of the old system.

Chiller systems have been used to deliver controlled cooling to buildings for decades, but with an increasing focus on energy efficiency and running costs, Mitsubishi Electric developed its e-series modular chiller to provide a low-carbon, cost-effective option. Its unique modular approach allows up to six individual units to be connected, providing a system capacity from 90-540kW. This approach reduces space requirements and simplifies lifting and installation.

Mel Baynham at Jaguar Land Rover explained that the Mitsubishi Electric system was the clear front-runner for several reasons: “We looked at a number of chillers, but the Mitsubishi Electric system met all of our requirements, including next day delivery.”

The system comprises two inverter driven compressors that allow it to operate between eight percent and 100 percent of capacity.

“We pushed for modular due to the fact that if a unit went down we would be able to keep the system running while that module was being repaired. It also needed to be a highly efficient system capable of looking after a design office containing 2000 people”, added Mel Baynham.

The new, fully operational system provides a more comfortable working environment for the 2000 members of staff in the Research and Design building.

By having a broad operating range, advanced inverters and sophisticated controls, the e-series can deliver exceptional part-load efficiencies, which is where it will primarily operate.

The balance of comfort and cooling performance will allow the car manufacturer to focus its efforts on refining automotive technologies at a significantly reduced energy cost.

Jaguar Land Rover’s new cooling system was designed by Norvent Pipework and the installation was carried out by IDS Electrical.

The system consists of eight EACV-P900YA-N e-series cooling-only chillers, plus eight MELCOBEMS? MINI interfaces, which provide individual indoor unit connections to a third-party Trend Controls Building Energy Management System (BEMS) via RS485 by either Modbus RTU or BACnet from a common platform.