Discover how MEL, our partnership with Midlothian Council is helping the region to undergo a transformative energy shift, harnessing lessons from its industrial past to build a more sustainable future.
Developing the foundations of a net zero future
Aerial view of Monkton Hall Colliery
Midlothian has long been defined by its rich industrial heritage, with coal mining playing a pivotal role in shaping the region’s history and economy. Building on this legacy, Midlothian Council declared a Climate Change Emergency in 2019, setting an ambitious goal to achieve net zero by 2045. As part of this commitment, the region is undergoing a transformative energy shift, harnessing lessons from its industrial past to build a more sustainable future.
A key driver of this transformation is Midlothian Energy Limited (MEL) - a 50/50 joint venture between Midlothian Council and Vattenfall. Established to deliver critical low carbon energy infrastructure, MEL is at the forefront of creating innovative energy solutions for the region and beyond.
Paving the way for low carbon living
One of MEL’s first major milestones is the construction of the MEL Energy Centre, at the historic Millerhill Marshalling Yards; a site that sits above the former Monktonhall Colliery. This innovative project is a testament to Midlothian’s ability to evolve, replacing fossil fuel-based energy with forward-thinking, low carbon alternatives that will power the region for generations to come.
By introducing low carbon energy infrastructure to this historic coal mining site, the project is helping to power the region into the future.
This energy centre is set to provide heat and hot water to thousands of residents in Shawfair and neighbouring Craighall Village via the MEL heat network, capturing low carbon heat from the Millerhill Recycling and Energy Recovery Centre – an energy from waste plant operated by FCC Environment.
Honouring the past, powering the future
At Vattenfall, we are committed to recognising and respecting the industrial heritage of the communities we work in while highlighting the new opportunities that modern energy systems bring. From job creation to sustainable placemaking, this shift towards low carbon energy isn’t just about reducing emissions - it’s about securing a better future for Midlothian’s communities.
MEL: a case study
Interested in learning more about the MEL partnership? Watch our case study video for an in-depth look at its journey, impact, and future.
See also
From procurement to partnership: how Midlothian Energy Limited was formed
Midlothian saw a chance to deliver low-carbon heat to Shawfair—realised through expert energy investment.
What makes MEL stand out? A blueprint for innovative energy partnerships
MEL is a UK joint venture leading low-carbon energy projects. Discover what sets us apart in our latest blog.
“Heat network projects present lifelong career opportunities”, Paul Steen tells the Scotsman
Our Head of Business Development (North) has written an insightful article for The Scotsman, addressing the critical need to bridge the skills gap to achieve net zero in Scotland.