Wedoany.com Report-Aug. 26, UK Power Networks has launched HeatScape in collaboration with Arup, Environmental Resources Management, and Bring Energy. The project is designed to map existing and future heat networks and assess the electricity requirements under different scenarios, supporting the preparation for electrification and decarbonisation.

HeatScape will map existing and future heat networks, as well as potential electricity requirements.

HeatScape will integrate information from datasets, advanced modelling, and practical insights into UK Power Networks’ Strategic Forecasting System. This integration will show how electrified heat networks may interact with the electricity grid and help guide investment and operational planning. A key focus of the project is to enable more flexible management of heat networks, for example, through the use of thermal storage to reduce peak electricity demand.

Luca Grella, head of innovation at UK Power Networks, stated: “Decarbonising heat is one of the biggest opportunities we have to create a cleaner, more efficient energy future. With HeatScape, we’re taking a proactive approach, working with our partners to understand where heat networks will grow and how they’ll interact with the grid. By combining data, modelling and customer insights, we can plan smarter, reduce costs and make sure the transition to low-carbon heating benefits everyone.”

The project will also engage with customers of Bring Energy, which owns and operates the East London Energy Distribution Heat Network. This collaboration will help explore customer interest in adopting low-carbon technologies and increasing energy flexibility.

Stephen Hutchins, concession director at Bring Energy, commented: “HeatScape will give us a clearer picture of how and where heat networks are likely to grow, and what that means for our electricity infrastructure. We’re excited to be partnering with an industry leader in innovation like UK Power Networks to explore new ways to make heat networks more flexible, including smarter use of thermal storage. We believe this collaborative project will help accelerate the transition to cleaner, more efficient energy systems for communities across the UK.”

According to UK Power Networks, heat networks currently supply about 3% of the UK’s heating demand. However, this figure is expected to increase significantly to 20% by 2050. This shift represents a crucial part of the country’s broader decarbonisation strategy, as electrified heating networks will play a central role in reducing carbon emissions.

The growth of heat networks will also place additional requirements on electricity infrastructure, highlighting the importance of early planning and innovation. Through HeatScape, UK Power Networks and its partners aim to anticipate these future demands, ensuring the electricity grid is prepared to meet them while supporting a smooth transition to low-carbon heating.

By aligning advanced modelling with customer insights and collaborative innovation, HeatScape is positioned to provide a roadmap for how heat networks can expand in line with sustainability objectives. The project reflects a forward-looking approach to energy planning, ensuring both efficiency and resilience in the country’s future energy systems.