Low or zero carbon technologies

8.2.13Ground collectors

The installation of ground collectors shall take structural and environmental factors into account.

The depth and layout of ground collectors should be specified to avoid freezing of adjacent ground. Where open loop systems are proposed, consultation with the appropriate environment agency should be made and may require one or more of the following:

  • A licence to investigate groundwater.
  • An abstraction licence.
  • A discharge consent.

Excavations for the installation of ground collectors should not adversely affect aquifers, foundations, drainage, water supply pipes and other services. Design should take account of local planning authority guidance, including excavations that are close to trees and hedgerows.

Ground collectors should be protected and tested prior to backfilling.