Rising temperatures in the UK are increasing the pressure to find energy-efficient solutions for temperature control in commercial buildings. The Met Office recently discussed the growing prevalence of heatwaves and highlighted how 2025 was the warmest year on record for the UK,[1] while the Building Engineering Services Association has warned that overheating is now a critical safety issue.[2] Infrastructure must be futureproofed for occupant comfort  in the years to come, though any solutions to this problem must balance cost with ensuring sustainable low-carbon approaches writes Franz Huelle, Head of Technical at REHAU Building Solutions.
TABS Technology Explained
Thermally activated building structures (TABS) offer the opportunity for a low- carbon, passive heating and cooling solution for new projects. TABS utilise the thermal concrete mass of a building, through embedded pipework within its structure. Cold water can be run through the pipes to cool a building, or alternatively hot water to heat it.
Offering a comprehensive design, TABS are responsive to increasing temperatures, while also being able to maintain heat during colder periods. This technology also provides multiple advantages compared to commonly used all-air HVAC systems, including: less maintenance, more space and improved occupant comfort. Lower energy consumption and operating costs are also notable benefits. TABS technology has the potential to produce almost 80% less operational carbon dioxide compared to a traditional HVAC system.[3]
The sustainable and cost-efficient choice
The utilisation of water by TABS is a more effective medium than air for thermal transfer, primarily because water offers lower energy consumption, in turn reducing operating costs. TABS also integrates well with heat pumps because of its low-operating temperatures. In some instances, the combination of TABS with a green source heat pump could make savings of over 88% in operational carbon emissions.[3] This makes TABS a worthwhile alternative for environmentally conscious energy managers looking to improve their BREEAM rating.
TABS can also be constructed off-site to minimise the use of additional labour and boost the speed at which the technology can be installed, saving money in the process.
Less maintenance, more space and maximised occupant comfort
More self-sufficient than traditional HVAC cooling systems, TABS radiant cooling technology, once installed and stabilised, does not need ongoing maintenance. TABS also provide the opportunity for more space. Space encroaching – and some may argue aesthetically unpleasing – wall radiators can also become relegated to the past. The concealed pipework of TABS allows buildings to be heated behind the scenes, with no visible heating elements.
As well as the numerous advantages for businesses employing TABS technology, multiple benefits exist for occupants. Comfort is maximised through quieter operation and draught-free heating and cooling, supplying consistent temperature control. This technology supersedes traditional air conditioning units that tend to give hot and cold spots, noisy operation and the increased risk of spreading air borne pathogens. TABS’ utilisation of water, rather than air, to generate energy minimises this risk and helps safeguard employees from sick building syndrome.
Within a context of increasing extreme weather events in the UK, TABS provides an under-utilised solution. The multifaceted benefits of TABS to the energy manager, the occupant and the planet, highlight why this technology should not be overlooked. Wider implementation of TABS would be a sustainable way to futureproof commercial buildings – an opportunity that should not be missed.
To learn more about Thermally Activated Building Structures (TABS), click here.Â
[1] https://www.metoffice.gov.uk/about-us/news-and-media/media-centre/weather-and-climate-news/2025/summer-2025-is-the-warmest-on-record-for-the-uk
[2] https://www.thebesa.com/besa-latest-news/overheating-critical-safety-besa
[3] https://bs.rehau.com/uk-en/solutions-for-building-technology/underfloor-heating/thermally-activated-building-structures
