Network operator GTC has announced the development of a heat network solution for traditional, new-build, low-rise developments.
Hot water is produced centrally in a Community Heat Hub, it explained, using large-scale heat pumps powered by grid electricity.
From the Hub, hot water is fed to all individual homes through a highly insulated plastic-pipe heat network, to provide instantaneous heating and hot water.
There is a thermal water storage tank in the Community Heat Hub, replenished when wholesale electricity costs are lower. This store reduces peak demand on the grid, lessening the need for reinforcement. Back-up electric boilers ensure a resilient supply of hot water, it added.
Heat networks were previously only available using steel pipes, but regulations now allow lower operating temperatures so insulated plastic pipes become viable, GTC said.
GTC COO John Marsh said: “We provide utility infrastructure for new housing sites, so we are delighted to offer this alternative to gas. Our business owns and operates heat networks across London. We have built on this experience to extend heat networks to low-density sites for GTC installation. This provides a simple, competitive option for housebuilders and homeowners. It reduces carbon emission by 75-80% and becomes zero-carbon when the grid gets to zero carbon.
“This is a viable, sustainable, cost-effective solution, which is available now.”
Business and Energy Minister Lord Callanan said: “Heat networks using heat pumps powered by clean, cheaper renewable energy generated here in the UK are cutting emissions and helping us take charge of our energy security.
“Low carbon heat networks can help households and businesses move away from expensive fossil fuels. Systems like this one developed by GTC will accelerate the rollout of the technologies we need to achieve this.”
One of the UK’s largest housebuilders, Taylor Wimpey, is partnering GTC in a pilot project to deliver heat via a Community Heat Hub onto a new low-density site, currently in the planning stage, at Chilton Woods, Sudbury, a statement said.
A planning application for the Community Heat Hub at the Chilton Woods development has been submitted this month.