Project at Heathrow Animal Reception Centre forms part of the City of London’s Climate Action Strategy and reduces the facility’s reliance on the National Grid.
At a glance
Who: City of London Corporation; Heathrow Animal Reception Centre.
What: City of London Corporation has completed a project to install 94 solar panels and other low-carbon heating systems at Heathrow Animal Reception Centre (Harc), Heathrow Airport.
Why: To replace outdated systems and provide more consistent, energy-efficient temperature control across the specialist facility. It also forms part of the City Corporation’s own Climate Action Strategy and reduces reliance on the grid.
When: The project is now complete.
The City of London Corporation has completed a project to install 94 solar panels and other low-carbon heating systems at Heathrow Animal Reception Centre (Harc), Heathrow Airport.
The upgrade also reduces the facility’s reliance on the National Grid, strengthening its energy resilience and long-term operational reliability.
Managed by the City, Harc protects the UK’s biosecurity by carrying out health and welfare checks on all animals entering the UK via Heathrow Airport, from pets and farm livestock to zoo species and exotic consignments.
The centre plays a vital role in preventing the spread of diseases such as rabies while ensuring animals meet strict welfare standards upon entering the country.
“Our Climate Action Strategy is delivering real results right across London. Even in some of our most complex environments, we’ve shown that no site is too challenging – cutting carbon while protecting critical national infrastructure”
The clean energy upgrade also includes a number of low-carbon heat pumps, helping to replace outdated systems and provide more consistent, energy-efficient temperature control across the specialist facility.
The investment forms part of the City Corporation’s own Climate Action Strategy, which commits the organisation to becoming net zero in its own operations by 2027.
The new solar panels will generate clean electricity on site, helping to power low‑carbon heating and hot water systems, energy‑efficient lighting and upgraded ventilation.
Together, these improvements will cut the site’s carbon emissions by nearly 56 tonnes a year – equivalent to powering roughly 21 average-sized homes – and save more than £44,500 annually in energy costs.
“Our Climate Action Strategy is delivering real results right across London. Even in some of our most complex environments, we’ve shown that no site is too challenging – cutting carbon while protecting critical national infrastructure,” said policy chairman at the City of London Corporation, Chris Hayward.
“By continuing to invest in Harc, we’re ensuring it is ready for the challenges and opportunities ahead at Heathrow, strengthening the long-term resilience and security of this vital national asset.”
Operating around the clock, Harc relies on stable, carefully controlled conditions to protect animal welfare and support the UK’s biosecurity. The entire upgrade has been delivered without disrupting this essential service.
Harc is the UK’s only Live Animal Border Control Post designated for all species. It enforces UK and international regulations on animal imports and works with airlines to ensure compliance with welfare standards.
Located on the perimeter of Heathrow Airport, the facility is IATA CEIV Live Animals certified and cares for millions of animals annually, including zoo species and high-value consignments. This includes thousands of pets, hundreds of horses, and millions of fish, reptiles and invertebrates every year.
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