Major jobs boost as the city gets part of the share of £5.8m to develop one of England’s first heat network zones.

The UK has selected Sheffield as one of six cities to introduce a new era of low-carbon, cost-effective heating.

The government is funding a £5.8 million initiative to develop heat network zones.

Miatta Fahnbulleh, Minister for Energy Consumers, emphasised the importance of heat networks in achieving the UK’s clean energy goals.

She said: “As well as energy independence, they will support millions of businesses and building owners for years to come, with low-cost, low carbon heating, driving down energy bills. 

“Tens of thousands of green jobs will be created across the country, and that’s why we’re investing in developing these fantastic and innovative projects, developing the first zones in cities and towns across England.”

They operate by capturing excess heat from various sources and distributing it to nearby buildings through a system of pipes.

This can be efficient in reducing energy waste.

By connecting to a heat network, residents and businesses can enjoy lower energy bills and reduce their reliance on fossil fuels.

Caroline Bragg, CEO of the Association for Decentralised Energy, said: “We are delighted to see the government maintaining its support for the heat network sector.  

“Heat network zones are crucial for a just transition for our communities, putting the UK on the lowest cost pathway to decarbonising our heat, attracting more than £3 of private investment for every £1 of public funding given and creating tens of thousands of local jobs.

“As we begin to deliver zoning at scale, it is crucial that the government and industry continue to work together to ensure heat networks can truly unleash their potential.”

Developing heat networks across the country can create tens of thousands of jobs through delivering a low-carbon heating transformation.

This includes engineering, planning, manufacturing and construction roles.

Large non-domestic buildings as well as buildings already heated communally, could connect to a network.

These include hospitals, universities, hotels, supermarkets, and office blocks,

The six selected towns and cities are likely to become designated zones in the future.

The trials will inform the work to reduce bills, enhance energy security, and achieve net zero by 2050.

As the UK moves towards a greener future, Sheffield’s participation positions the city as a leader in sustainable energy solutions.

Leeds, Plymouth, Bristol, Stockport, and two London boroughs, are the other cities and towns selected to be a part of the project.

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