Case Study - The Kia Oval

Client Overview and Project Goals

• Client: The Kia Oval, London
• Industry: Sporting and Conference Venue
• Challenge: Upgrading an aging heating and cooling system that we supplied many years ago with a sustainable, cost-effective solution that aligns with net-zero goals.

Home to Surrey County Cricket Club since 1845, The Kia Oval is a world-renowned cricket venue and one of London’s premier conference locations, hosting over 2,000 events annually. A recent refurbishment of the JM Finn Stand included upgrading 15 hospitality boxes and several function suites, such as the iconic Ashes Suite and John Major Suite.

Objectives

Delivering Results Aligned with Client Goals

• Replace outdated air conditioning units with a highly efficient and sustainable system.
• Minimise disruption to year-round hospitality operations.
• Ensure compatibility with existing indoor fan coil units to reduce downtime and costs.
• Support the venue’s commitment to achieving net-zero sustainability targets.

Solution

Tailored Heating & Cooling System Design

• System Overview: 14 Panasonic ECOi units – 2 three-pipe and 12 two-pipe systems.
• Key Features: Energy efficiency, compatibility with existing indoor units, and compact design to reduce the system’s overall footprint.
• Why Panasonic?: Proven reliability, excellent energy performance, and seamless integration with the venue’s existing infrastructure.

Peach Maintenance, led by Vince Sharma and Thomas Hall, specified and installed the new Panasonic system, with Oceanair South providing the ECOi units and expert support for the system design and schematics.

Installation Process

Efficient Installation with Expert Precision

• Timeline: The installation was completed before the cricket season began, adhering to a tight schedule to avoid disrupting hospitality operations.
• Challenges Addressed:

1. Retrofitting new outdoor condensing units to existing fan coil units.
2. Accessing the plant room, made more complex by additional roof sections.

• Collaboration: Oceanair and Panasonic provided technical support, ensuring a smooth and efficient installation.

Outcomes

Performance Metrics:

• Replaced 28 Sanyo units with 14 Panasonic ECOi systems.
• Improved energy efficiency and reduced the system’s footprint. Maintained seamless climate control with minimal downtime.

Client Benefits:

• A cost-effective upgrade retaining functional components.
• Enhanced sustainability while meeting the venue’s operational demands.

What our client says

Matt Williams of Surrey County Cricket Club commented: “The install was straightforward and a cost-effective solution for us, with almost no downtime and zero issues throughout the install – we are very pleased with the end result and it aligns nicely with our sustainability goals.”

Sustainability and Innovation in Action

The Kia Oval’s refurbishment demonstrates the successful integration of sustainable solutions into a heritage site. Oceanair’s expertise in system design and Panasonic’s cutting-edge technology have delivered a reliable, energy-efficient solution that supports the venue’s operational and environmental goals.

Ready to Upgrade Your System?

Contact Oceanair today to discuss how we can support your next heating and cooling project. Visit our website or call 01623 412582 (North), 01293 852550 (South).