PROJECTS 2025
2025 Projects RACA Journal
JANUARY
LG’ S MULTI V5: POWERING SA’ S FIRST FULLY SOLAR HVAC SOLUTION I and S Motors’ Workshops and Warehouse in De Deur implemented a fully solar-powered HVAC system, overcoming off-grid power challenges. The LG Multi V5 system was chosen for its energy efficiency, adaptability and intelligent capacity control, dynamically adjusting output based on available solar power. Installation included diverse unit types, long piping runs and advanced remote monitoring via the LG AC Smart 5 controller, ensuring optimal performance and minimal maintenance. The system delivers 40 – 50 % energy savings compared to conventional setups. This project demonstrates sustainable HVAC innovation in South Africa, reducing operating costs, carbon footprint and setting a benchmark for off-grid commercial facilities.
Image Credit: LG Electronics
FEBRUARY
REVAMPING COMFORT AT IRENE HOTEL Irene Hotel in Pretoria recently upgraded its ageing HVAC and hot water systems through SHC Consulting and Mitsubishi Electric, enhancing guest comfort and energy efficiency. The phased project maintained hotel operations while replacing the 25-yearold chiller system with Mitsubishi’ s VRF City Multi units. Innovative heat recovery allows simultaneous room cooling and hot water generation, optimising energy use and reducing costs. The systems deliver a coefficient of performance of six or above, ensuring high efficiency. Careful planning ensured minimal disruption to guests. This upgrade demonstrates how energy-efficient technologies can improve operational performance and sustainability in the hospitality sector.
Image Credit: Mitsubishi Air Conditioning Systems
MARCH
PICK N PAY AIR CONDITIONING REFURBISHMENT: EFFICIENCY, SUSTAINABILITY AND COST SAVINGS VMG Consultants is partnering with Pick n Pay to refurbish air-conditioning systems across multiple stores, with a strong focus on energy efficiency and sustainability. The programme has already prevented over 15 tonnes of waste from reaching landfills by refurbishing Air Handling Units( AHUs) and other equipment rather than replacing them. Since 2020, 14 stores have benefitted from these upgrades, with 17 more planned. The refurbishments involve modernising older systems – some over 40 years old – with advanced technology, including water-cooled to air-cooled unit conversions and Variable Refrigerant Flow( VRF) chillers. These improvements deliver 30 – 60 % greater energy efficiency, reducing operational costs while maintaining optimal performance. A key feature of the initiative is the use of LG’ s Smart 5 Controller and associated I / O modules. These systems allow real-time remote monitoring, intuitive on-site programming and integration across various HVAC components, improving operational oversight without costly custom software. Dynamic fresh air control, facilitated by CO2 sensors, further enhances energy efficiency by adjusting airflow based on actual store occupancy. VMG Consultants combines meticulous engineering assessments with strategic co-ordination of contractors and suppliers. Modern components such as plug fans from HC Aircon and Ziehl Abegg are integrated into the refurbished units, enabling precise airflow control and significant energy savings. The programme balances sustainability, cost efficiency, and operational continuity. By refurbishing rather than replacing units, Pick n Pay benefits from substantial cost savings – one project reduced expenses from an estimated R13-million for replacement to R8.5-million for refurbishment – while ensuring that stores remain fully operational during upgrades.
Image Credit: Elmec Air
APRIL
SUSTAINABLE COOLING SOLUTION SAVES ENERGY IN PHARMACEUTICAL LOGISTICS FACILITY A cutting-edge Climate Wizard indirect
evaporative cooling system has been installed at IMCD Group’ s 1 376m ² pharmaceutical storage facility, providing energy-efficient climate control for sensitive products. The project, managed by Crown Technologies for C. Steinweg Chemical Logistics, included eight units, precise ducting, and de-stratification fans to ensure uniform temperature( 15 – 25 ° C) and humidity( 40 – 65 %). The system operates at 14kW versus 25kW for conventional air conditioning, reducing energy use by 44 % and aligning with sustainability goals. Insulation panels from Isowall, structural reinforcements, and high-altitude installation techniques ensured optimal performance. The low-maintenance solution supports long-term operational efficiency, scalability and minimal environmental impact, while projected energy savings are expected to recover the upfront investment within five years, demonstrating the system’ s suitability for pharmaceutical, agricultural and data centre applications.
Image Credit: Crown Technologies
MAY
RPM’ S LARGEST PROJECT YET: RESTORING HVAC SYSTEM IN LUANDA BANK RPM Consulting Engineers, a division of the RPM Engineering Group, undertook the comprehensive refurbishment of HVAC systems in a 25-storey landmark building in Luanda, Angola. The project scope includes repairs and replacement of 18 chillers, 500 + fan coil units, 16 air handling units, 272 FCU controllers, 450 CHW valves, 550 fire dampers and installation of a state-of-the-art Schneider BMS. Five South African contractors are on-site, supported by phased logistics and cross-border equipment shipments. Challenges include limited documentation, power interruptions, booster pump failures and complex import regulations. RPM combines meticulous planning, adaptive on-site
156 HEVAC & R Directory 2026 www. coldlinkafrica. co. za | www. refrigerationandaircon. co. za