The MEL Heat Network
Bringing Midlothian's vision for low carbon heat to life
We have partnered with Midlothian Council forming Midlothian Energy Limited (MEL) to provide low carbon heat to new homes in Midlothian and progress a variety of other energy projects. The initial phase of the MEL Heat Network will supply over 3,000 properties at Shawfair Town and is expected to save over 2,500 tonnes of CO2 per year, the equivalent of taking 1,200 cars off the road.
MEL: a case study
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Discover how MEL is reshaping the future of energy in Scotland. This video highlights the collaborative approach driving the development of low carbon heat networks across Midlothian and beyond. Learn how this innovative project, supplying thousands of new homes with heating and hot water, is setting the benchmark for a fair and sustainable transition.
A heat solution for new developments
The initial phase of the MEL heat network will serve Shawfair Town, one of Scotland’s largest new development projects, a 15-minute train ride from Edinburgh city centre. As well as the construction of new homes, it will have three new schools, extensive cycling and walking networks and large areas of public open space – as well as retail, business and community facilities.
The network will also serve neighbouring Craighall Village, a development by Cala Homes of 600 sustainable, new houses.
The heat source: capturing wasted heat
The MEL heat network will capture low carbon heat from the Millerhill Recycling and Energy Recovery Centre – an energy from waste plant operated by FCC Environment. The main energy centre will have the potential to heat up to 10,000 homes equivalent.
As the network expands in Midlothian to cover more areas and supply more properties and developments, we plan to connect other waste heat sources including heat captured from mine workings.
Our vision for Shawfair is to create a town with a high-level of self-sufficiency, sustainability and a zero-carbon future at its heart. This joint venture has allowed us to turn this vision into a reality. It puts the development of Shawfair town ahead of the game and an exemplar in achieving low carbon energy for homes, businesses, schools and community buildings. Through this deal we are enabling the entire fabric of the emerging community to benefit from sustainable energy.
Contact us
Vattenfall Heat UK
If you are a customer on one of our heat networks, please visit our heat customers website or contact us on 0808 143 3633.
London
70 St Mary Axe
London
EC3A 8BE
Edinburgh
The Tun Building
Holyrood Road
Edinburgh
EH8 8PJ
Bristol
Bristol City Leap
101 Victoria Street
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