The Bristol heat network in detail
Existing network and proposed connections
in 2019, Bristol City Council commissioned 'Bristol net zero by 2030: The evidence base' by the Centre for Sustainable Energy. This report indicated a heat network could potentially deliver zero carbon heat to up to 62,000 residential buildings and 6,000 commercial buildings in the city.
In response to this, the council focussed on developing heat networks in high heat demand areas, such as central Bristol, which then led to the creation of the Bristol heat network.
Bristol has England's largest water source heat pump at Castle Park. This facility uses electricity from renewable sources to extract heat from the floating harbour before pumping it to nearby homes and businesses. As the network grows, it will be increasingly reliant on low carbon sources of heat.
The network now supplies heat for space heating and hot water to many buildings, businesses and residents in Redcliffe and Old Market, and is being extended to Bedminster and the Temple area with possible routes to connect these areas together to be explored.
Feasibility studies have also been carried out into other potential network areas in Ashton Gate, City Centre, Frome Gateway and Spike Island.
All core network areas will be connected by a City Ring Main to improve resilience and diversity.
By the numbers*
including
*as of July 2024
More information
Request our updated Technical Specifications and Part L Guidance.
Frequently asked questions and answers about connecting to the Bristol heat network
UK homes are being encouraged to move to low carbon heating, but what are the benefits?
Our team
Latest news from Bristol
Bristol Heat Network scoops up two prestigious industry awards
Yesterday was a successful day for Vattenfall’s Bristol Heat Network, scooping up two awards at separate ceremonies on the same evening.
Bristol City Leap and Vattenfall Win ‘Clean Energy Scheme Award’ at Regen’s 2024 Green Energy Awards
Bristol City Leap, in collaboration with Vattenfall Heat UK, has been awarded the prestigious ‘Clean Energy Scheme Award’ at the 2024 Green Energy Awards, organised by Regen.
City of Bristol selects City Leap partner to take action on climate change and achieve carbon neutrality by 2030
City of Bristol selects Ameresco and subcontractor Vattenfall Heat UK, for large multi-pronged approach to build the city’s future smart energy system.