Heat networks are systems where heat is distributed through a series of pipes within a single building, multiple buildings or even across an entire city! If your home is serviced by a heat network, you do not need an individual boiler or electric heater.
Heat in a heat network is centrally generated. The central heat source is often referred to as the Energy Centre. Energy Centres can be powered in many ways and might come from a number of different energy sources, including renewable technologies and then distributed to your property by distribution pipework. You will normally have a Hydraulic Interface Unit (HIU) or other system to turn the heating on and off - it’s normally around the same size as a gas boiler.
This means you will pay for what you use, as measured by a heat meter, also known as a thermal energy meter. You won't have your own individual boiler and your utility supplier for heat and/or hot water will be the Heat Network Operator, which is the organisation that operates and/or owns the heat network.
There are a number of sustainability benefits of heat networks as well as providing a reliable and cost-effective method of supply to consumers. A heat network isn't a new idea and they have been extremely popular across Europe for decades and are increasingly common in the UK, especially when linked to renewable technologies.
Click here to download our heat network diagram
