The North East is recognised for a strong track record of developing and delivering heat networks, including the pioneering Gateshead District Energy Scheme and some of the UK’s first mine water heat networks. The region is continuing to develop an ambitious pipeline of more than £500 million of heat network projects.

The need for efficient and low carbon energy has never been greater. In the UK alone the Committee on Climate Change have assessed that heat networks could provide approximately 18% of UK heat demand, or over 5 million homes by 2050 (from 2% currently).

The UK Energy Act received Royal Assent on 26 October 2023. It includes provisions for consumer protection and the development of heat network zones. From our net zero commitments to levelling up - heat networks have a significant role in meeting our future energy needs and the North East intends to be at the forefront.

Join Net Zero North East England on 27 November, to hear from experts in the sector, as we explore the expanding opportunities for heat networks in the region. The event will host a morning conference with keynote speakers and a Q&A, followed by workshops in the afternoon covering a range of topics, that will dig into some of the practical, commercial, and financial elements required to deliver heat network projects. The event will also include an optional tour of the Helix Energy Centre.

Conference speakers will include:

• The Department of Energy Security and Net Zero - who will share progress in the development of Heat Network Zoning.
• The Danish Embassy - who will share Denmark’s substantial experience in developing heat networks.
• Northumberland Estates – who will share a local perspective on heat networks and low carbon opportunities.
• Gateshead Council 

Workshops:

A tour of the Helix Energy Centre, including a visit to the retrofitted plant room at the Grade II Listed Discovery Museum

This tour will show a heat network in operation with an in-depth talk on how the heat network was developed and installed.

Getting buildings heat network ready

This session will detail the best type of buildings for heat networks and will discuss the process of installing a heat network through case studies of previous developments.

Moving projects to delivery - commercial considerations

Womble Bond Dickinson will lead this session on the commercial logisitics for organisations that are considering installing or funding heat networks.

Getting heat networks investment ready - the heat network financial template

This session will discuss the financial considerations of setting up a heat network with a presentation from Teno energy.