Government scheme to increase energy efficiency of Heat Networks • New UK target to halve residual waste by 2042 • New Heat Network to be built in London borough • Read more about the developments in sustainable heating and cooling in this month's news update from the UK
In an effort to reduce carbon emissions and improve energy efficiency in the UK, the government has launched the Heat Network Efficiency Scheme (HNES). This new initiative aims to provide funding to improve the efficiency of existing district and communal heating systems, which are a significant source of greenhouse gas emissions.
The HNES will provide up to £32m in funding over the next five years to support the development of new heating networks as well as efficiency improvement of existing ones. The initiative offers the potential to significantly reduce energy costs for residents while also contributing to the UK’s target of net-zero carbon emissions by 2050.
One of the key benefits of district and communal heating systems is their potential to be more efficient than individual heating systems. By using a centralised heating system, heat can be generated more efficiently and distributed to multiple properties, reducing energy waste and costs. However, many existing heating networks were build decades ago, which make them outdated and inefficient. The funding provided through the HNES will help making them more efficient and reducing carbon emissions. In addition to providing funding, the HNES will also offer support and guidance to housing associations and other organisations looking to develop new or improve existing heating networks.
Overall, the HNES has the potential to significantly reduce carbon emissions and energy costs for residents. As the UK continues to work towards its goal of net-zero carbon emissions by 2050, initiatives like the HNES will play an important role in achieving this target.
Read more in article by National Housing Federation
Read more in article by Air Quality News
In a move towards achieving its goal of becoming a carbon-neutral country by 2050, the UK government has recently introduced ‘The Environmental Targets (Residual Waste) (England) Regulations 2023’. The new regulations confirm the target of halving residual waste by 2030 and achieving a zero-waste economy by 2050. This is a significant step towards reducing the country’s carbon footprint and achieving its environmental targets.
The new regulations will require local authorities and waste management companies to report annually on their progress, including the amount of residual waste produced and the measures taken to reduce it. The regulations also require local authorities to publish waste prevention plans by 2025, setting out how they will work towards the 2030 target.
The target is to reduce residual waste by 50% by 2042, from the levels recorded in 2019. This equals a reduction from the current 574kg per capita down to 287kg by the end of period. In addition to waste being sent to landfill, the targets also apply to waste used in energy recovery. Here included Energy-from-Waste power plants producing electricity and district heating.
The new regulations will encourage local authorities and waste management companies to work together to find innovative ways to reduce waste and increase recycling rates. It will also help to promote the circular economy by encouraging the reuse and recycling of waste materials. This is an important step towards reducing the amount of waste sent to landfill sites, which is a significant contributor to greenhouse gas emissions. By reducing the amount of waste produced and increasing recycling rates, the UK can significantly reduce its carbon footprint and contribute to the global effort to combat climate change.
Read more in article by Let’s Recycle
Plumstead, a district located in the London Borough of Greenwich, is set to receive a new heat network thanks to a £13m funding package awarded to Vital Energi. The project is a part of the ongoing regeneration of the area, which aims to provide sustainable and energy-efficient solutions for its residents.
The project will involve the installation of a state-of-the-art energy centre and a network of underground pipes to supply heat and hot water to over 1,000 homes and businesses in the area. The new system will replace the existing, inefficient heating systems and will significantly reduce energy consumption and associated carbon emissions. The initiative will not only reduce carbon emissions but will also provide cost savings for residents by reducing their energy bills.
The project has been made possible through the Heat Network Efficiency Scheme (HNES), which provides funding to improve district and communal heating systems. The HNES is part of the government’s commitment to achieving net-zero carbon emissions by 2050 and is a significant step towards a more sustainable future.
Read more in article by Vital Energi
Read more in article by Construction Enquirer
To stay updated on news for sustainable heating and cooling, follow us on Twitter and LinkedIn, and subscribe to our Newsletter.
Sweden is at the forefront of decentralised heat networks technology. Our aim for “Sustainable Heating & Cooling by Sweden” is to facilitate knowledge sharing between British, French and Swedish stakeholders and develop and encourage environmental and economic best practice.
To find out how we can help you and your organisation, please contact our London or Paris-based “SHC” teams. We can introduce you to leading consultants, suppliers of technology and services who will be pleased to share know-how of the development of sustainable heating & cooling solutions.
