Sharenergy has launched an ambitious research and innovation project that aims to jumpstart a wave of community owned heat networks in the UK.
The experience of community heat network projects in the UK is that many are suggested, but few are successful. We want to bring a data-led approach to identifying where the best chances for successful community heat networks are – drawing on work that has already been done but adding the crucial element of community ownership that is Sharenergy’s specialism.
This 18-month project, running in partnership with Community Energy England and the Marches Energy Agency, will develop a business model that can operate in these ‘sweet spots’, as well as a Community Heat Delivery Unit to support the development of locally-owned networks. We want communities all over the country to be able to take control in the effort to decarbonise their heat needs.
The project launched on October 12th with a one-day symposium to help us set the parameters for the project, and a report on the symposium is available to download.
To stay updated on the progress of the project, join the Community Heat Development Unit mailing list.
See our project updates: November 2023
This project has been supported with funding from the Energy Industry Voluntary Redress Fund.
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Sharenergy is launching an 18-month community heat network research and innovation project