Heat network zoning

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The Greater South East Net Zero Hub is helping local authorities in the region to prepare for the implementation of Heat Network Zoning.

Heat networks use underground pipes to distribute heat from centralised sources to nearby buildings – removing the need for individual heat sources in those buildings.

The Energy Act 2023 introduced the Heat Network transformation programme, which aims to expand the development of heat network projects across England.

Greater South East Net Zero Hub – Industrial pipes

Working together to decarbonise homes

The programme will see government and local authorities working together to designate areas where heat networks can provide the lowest cost, low carbon heating.

By creating optimised zones for heat networks, communities can accelerate the development of heat networks locally – helping them to decarbonise homes and organisations in their local area.

Our support

Local net zero hubs

To support local authorities with the introduction of Heat Network Zoning, the Local Net Zero Hubs host dedicated heat network zoning implementation officers on behalf of the Department for Energy Security and Net Zero.

This support involves:

Coordinating zoning communications to prepare local authorities for heat zoning
Studying and raising awareness of local needs and supporting informed decision making which optimises the use of local heat energy.
Providing a link between local operations and national objectives – ensuring local activities align with broader strategic goals.
Helping to plug gaps in local knowledge and preparedness for zoning.

To find out more, please contact our Heat Network Zoning Engagement Officer, Emma-Jane Danielsson.

More information about Heat Network Zoning can be found on the UK Government’s website

Visit the UK Government website

Greater South East Net Zero Hub – Pipeline

Government heat network support

Heat Network Efficiency Scheme

The Heat Network Efficiency Scheme (HNES) is a capital and revenue grant fund that supports improvements to existing district heating or communal heating projects. The scheme is open to public, private and third sector applicants in England and Wales. It is funded by the Department for Energy Security and Net Zero and administered by Gemserv. The scheme is running multiple funding rounds.

To receive scheme updates, contact hnes@gemserv.com.

Find out more about the Heat Network Efficiency Scheme

Green Heat Network Fund

The three-year £288 million Green Heat Network Fund (GHNF) is a significant government initiative that provides capital grants for the development of new and existing low and zero-carbon heat networks.

The Fund provides support to organisations in the public, private and third sectors in England. There will be a series of quarterly application rounds until the scheme closes in 2025. The Fund is managed by Triple Point Heat Networks Investment Management.

Subscribe for updates about the Fund

Access the scheme overview and guidance here

Heat Networks Delivery Unit

The Heat Networks Delivery Unit (HNDU) is a government programme that provides grant funding and guidance to local authorities for the early stages of heat network project development. Registered social landlords, property developers, universities, and NHS trusts can also apply.

Financial support from HNDU can be applied for via regular funding rounds. Funding Round 13 is open until midday, 31 December 2023. Details of Funding Round 13 are HERE. Costs eligible for funding are externally commissioned consultancy costs for heat network development work. The funding is targeted at the early stages of heat network projects, such as heat mapping, energy master planning, technical and economic feasibility and detailed project development. Funding Round 13 is open until midday, 31 December 2023.

Other support provided by HNDU comprises a range of technical, commercial, and legal guidance. This is provided through the HNDU webpages and at in-person events. The Unit has also established an online information-sharing site, which allows local authorities to exchange learning.

Access the guidance provided by HNDU

Need help?

If you are in the Greater South East region of England and would like further information or help to access the government support available, get in touch

Email us

Find resources on heat network zoning

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