Hackney Council signs deal for new low-carbon heat network

Hackney Council has entered into an agreement with Vital Energi to construct and manage a new underground heat network. This initiative aims to provide low-carbon heating and hot water to 1,486 homes, two schools, and Britannia Leisure Centre within the Colville and Britannia developments.

Network details and environmental impact

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The heat network will utilise large air source heat pumps, which extract heat from the ambient air to warm buildings and water. This system is projected to reduce carbon dioxide equivalent emissions by over 100,000 tonnes during its first 40 years of operation, a significant improvement compared to previous designs involving combined heat and power units and gas boilers. Gas boilers will remain available to supplement heating during peak demand. The council has stated that consumer heating charges will be maintained at levels no higher than those for running conventional individual gas boilers.

The energy centre for this network is being developed as part of the Colville Estate regeneration project, which is also creating over 1,000 new homes for existing residents in Hoxton. The project is one of more than 300 actions outlined in Hackney Council's four-year Climate Implementation Plan, designed to reduce the borough's emissions and prepare residents for the impacts of climate change.

The next four years are crucial for preparing our residents, buildings, neighbourhoods and streets for these challenges. This plan uses all the tools available to us as a Council, like the planning and infrastructure for the Colville heat network, to make the borough a healthier and more sustainable place.

Cllr Jacob Cable, Cabinet Member for Climate, Clean Air, Energy and Transport

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Timeline for connections

Construction of the network is underway, with Vital Energi managing the build and subsequent operation. The council anticipates that the first homes will be connected to the new heat network in early 2028. This project forms part of a broader strategy by Hackney Council to address climate change across five key areas: adaptation, building efficiency, sustainable transport, habitat protection, and green job creation.