January 29, 2026
Supplying future-proof biomass heating for an 1840s sandstone lodge in Midlothian
When Bryan Jones took on the renovation of South Lodge, an 1840s sandstone property in Midlothian, he knew heating would be one of the biggest challenges.
The house had no central heating at all. For decades, the entire building had been warmed by a single coal fire. After purchasing the property in March 2024, Bryan and his family embarked on a full renovation, stripping the building back to four walls and a roof and effectively starting again.
“For nine months, the house was barely habitable. There was no heating system to upgrade, we had to decide what kind of system should exist there at all.”
The challenge: heating a large, traditional stone building
South Lodge is a large, traditionally built sandstone home, beautiful, but demanding from an energy perspective. Insulation, heat demand and fuel choice all had to be considered together.
Bryan explored a number of options through Home Energy Scotland, including heat pumps, but quickly realised that for this location, property type and scale, a sustainable wood heating system was the only realistic solution.
“Once you look at the building, the location and the demand, biomass was the only thing that really stacked up.”
Just as important was control. During the energy crisis, Bryan was keen to avoid long-term exposure to volatile oil or gas prices.
“I didn’t want to be beholden to anyone. I wanted something I could understand, plan for and control.”
The solution: ETA biomass, supplied by Innasol, installed by Borders Eco Systems
Working with Border Eco Systems, part of Innasol’s UK installer network, Bryan selected an ETA SH30 log boiler, supplied by Innasol and supported by Home Energy Scotland Grant & Loan Scheme.
The choice was driven by several factors:
- Capacity: a 30kW system capable of heating a large, traditionally built stone property
- Fuel autonomy: the ability to source logs locally, including from surrounding actively managed woodland
- Longevity: a simple, robust system designed to last decades
- Fit with lifestyle: a hands-on, physical system that felt right for the setting
“We live surrounded by woodland. An ETA log boiler just felt like an organic decision; it suits the place and the way we live.”
System design and future-proofing
The system centres on an ETA SH30 log boiler paired with a 2,000-litre thermal store, supplying:
- Underfloor heating on the ground floor
- Radiators upstairs
- All domestic hot water
Crucially, the system has been sized with the future in mind. It has sufficient capacity to heat a planned one-bedroom annex, initially intended as a home for Bryan’s son, with further potential in the future.
“It’s reassuring to know the system already has the capacity. It makes the next phase possible.”
Installation: experience through partnership
Border Eco Systems carried out the installation, following a referral from Pentland Biomass. From the outset, Bryan felt confident in the team.
“There was no pressure, no sales pitch. They were upfront, honest and clearly knew what they were doing.”
Despite the site being some distance from their base, communication remained clear and consistent throughout the project. The quality of workmanship was later reinforced by other engineers who saw the installation.
“Even other engineers have commented on the standard of work. There’s a real pride in what they do.”
This project reflects Innasol’s approach: supplying proven ETA technology through experienced local installer partners, ensuring systems are designed, installed and supported to the highest standard.
Living with the system: control, confidence and choice
A log boiler isn’t a “set and forget” solution and that’s exactly what Bryan values.
“It’s a lifestyle choice. It’s physical, it’s hands-on, and it gives you complete control.”
Operating the system requires planning, particularly around seasons and demand, but Bryan finds that involvement rewarding rather than burdensome. Compared to previous experiences with communal and fossil-fuel systems, the sense of independence stands out.
“We’re not at the mercy of anyone. That feeling of control is incredibly satisfying.”
The boiler’s intuitive touchscreen makes day-to-day operation straightforward, while the meinETA online system allows Border Eco Systems to remotely monitor performance and provide customer support when needed.
“It’s a simple, robust system. I genuinely believe it will outlast me, and that matters when you’re investing in a house like this.”
The result
South Lodge now benefits from a heating system that truly matches the scale, character and long-term ambitions of the property:
- Reliable, controllable heat for a large historic home
- Reduced exposure to fossil fuel price volatility
- A solution aligned with its rural woodland setting
- Capacity to support future expansion and income opportunities
And, as Bryan puts it:
“My ETA log boiler is the third lady in my life, after my wife and my dog.”
