New initiative aims to standardise UK heat networks

The Combined Heat and Power Association (CHPA) and Chartered Institution of Building Services Engineers (CIBSE) have announced an initiative aimed at enhancing the quality of heat networks across the UK.

CHPA and CIBSE are seeking industry feedback on the draft of the new publication Heat Networks: Code of Practice for the UK. This is the first Code of Practice to be published by the two organisations and seeks to provide clear and measurable outputs which will ensure that the heat network operates effectively and meets client and customer expectations. Setting minimum standards is a key step to provide greater confidence for specifiers and clients and these can also be included in the tendering/contracting process.

CHPA Director Tim Rotheray said: “District heating is focussed on delivering value for the consumer, putting them at the centre of a more local, more efficient energy system. It is because of that value that more than 50 Local Authorities are considering new district heating investments, contributing to government’s ambitions for heat networks to go from 2% to 14% of UK heating demand by 2030.

“If we are to meet that ambition, with district heating expanding to urban areas all around the country, we need to ensure these investments are being installed and operated with only the highest of standards so that the consumer sees the clear benefits this energy efficiency infrastructure can provide.”

Recent research found potential for heat networks in the UK to supply up to 14% of heat needs by 2030. The CHPA hopes introducing the standards will help to enhance the quality of heat networks where necessary and reducing costs by helping to standardise procurement.

CIBSE and the CHPA also believe the code can provide a foundation for the partnership to provide specialist training, accreditation and registration in the sector.