The Scottish and Northern Ireland Plumbing Employers’ Federation (SNIPEF) Technical Team, along with members and affiliates, visited SeaWarm in South Queensferry last week to gain insights into their innovative water-source heat pump system that utilises sea water.

SeaWarm's technology involves drawing water from the Firth of Forth and pumping it into a specialised heat exchanger tank. This tank, which employs SeaWarm’s proprietary 'HotTwist Technology', is engineered to maximise heat extraction from the sea water. The harvested heat is then transferred into buildings via a heat pump system.


During the visit, the SNIPEF delegation had the opportunity to see the system in operation at the Port Edgar Naval Battery guard house, where it has been installed.

Given Scotland's extensive coastline and numerous natural water sources, water-source heat pump technology is seen as a particularly relevant renewable heating option for a wide range of applications across the country. This provides an additional avenue for consumers and businesses exploring the renewables market.

The visit allowed SNIPEF affiliates and members to gain valuable understanding of how SeaWarm's technology could be applied to both domestic and commercial properties. They also learned about SeaWarm's ongoing plans to further refine and develop the technology for wider market adoption.