A new programme to provide low carbon ‘heat districts’ for Sheffield have been proposed as part of its push for net zero, aiming to benefit the city by cutting levels of fossil fuel energy.
The Advanced Zoning Programme has been suggested as a part of the government’s Heat Network Zoning policy, with the introduction of Heat Networks considered vital to making net zero a reality in the UK by the Labour party.
AZP and Heat Network implementation were also included in Sheffield City Council’s 10 point plan following the declaration of a climate emergency within the city in 2019.
Councillor Ben Miskell said: “This is a particular part of our growth plan, heat networks are being identified as a key infrastructure and investment priority for us as a city in delivering a clean and inclusive growth.”
Sheffield City Council have outlined neighbourhoods, prosperity and growth as the key benefits from the proposed Heat Networks.
Heat Networks, also known as Direct Heating, replace traditional water boilers in buildings and instead supply heat from one singular communal source as opposed to an individual one.
They can operate on a local or district level, drawing heat from low carbon sources and delivering it through a series of underground pipes.
There are already Heat Networks and systems operating throughout Sheffield, with 140 localised Heat Systems powering just under 6,000 social housing properties.
Heat Networks are not only vital for Sheffield but for the country on a whole.
Sustainability Programme Officer Kathryn Warrington said: “The Climate Change Committee have previously said that to meet the UKs net zero target by 2050 the country needs to be getting about 20% of its heat from heat networks from the current level of about 2%.”
A complete map of the proposed new Heat Networks has been provided by Sheffield City Council, with construction expected to take place between 2027 and 2031 subject to funding planning approval.
Councillor Ben Miskell said: “We should be incredibly proud as a city, Sheffield is one of a handful of trailblazer cities leading the way when it comes to heat networks and I think across the UK that leadership really really matters.
“We’re really excited as committee members about the potential this brings about lower cost, energy for homes, public buildings and businesses.”
