What is a heat network?
Heat networks (or district heating networks) distribute heat generated in a centralised location via a network of insulated, water filled pipes to domestic and commercial buildings for space heating and hot water.
One advantage of heat networks is that they generate heat centrally, rather than in each building which is much more efficient.
Heat networks can be supplied with heat from a variety of sources, including zero carbon sources and heat from processes that would otherwise be wasted. Heat is transferred into individual buildings of any size via a heat exchanger at which point the heat consumption is metered.
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Heat networks are an extremely common technology with a long history, particularly in continental Europe. Vattenfall operates city-scale heat networks in Amsterdam, Uppsala as well as many other smaller cities.
Case studies
What are the benefits of heat networks?
Buildings that currently use fossil fuels for heating, such as a gas boiler, will need to replace their systems to meet government targets. Soon, gas boilers simply won't be allowed. Heat networks present a forward-thinking solution for urban development. Recognised for their efficiency and sustainability, district heating systems offer a myriad of benefits for developers, building owners, and operators.
Why do we need heat networks?
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Nationally, around 2% of heating demand is supplied by heat networks and the UK Climate Change Committee has stated that this figure will need to rise to 18% in order for the UK to hit net zero by 2050.
There are a variety of reasons that a heat network might be the best solution for a given building, rather than a heat pump. These include spatial constraints, lack of electricity capacity and building heating systems being too high.
District heating networks can have far reaching benefits including infrastructure, social responsibility, supporting government targets, and keeping energy bills down.
Who are heat networks for?
We bring a strong team, investment, and more to help grow, optimise and run your network.
We bring experience to the issues developers face in making their vision a reality.
Finding scalable and reliable solutions with minimum disruption to residents.
Why heat networks?
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