Heat networks

During the spring and summer of 2017, I worked on an evaluation of the pilot of the UK government's Heat Network Investment Programme. Heat networks convey hot water from a central heat source to meet demand for space and water heating distributed across a number of buildings. Heat networks, also known as district heating systems, are a potentially important element in future energy systems because they can offer significant carbon savings. 

The objective of the pilot evaluation was to provide insight and learning - relating to: the scheme design; the application, assessment and award process; and a snapshot of the current heat networks industry - to maximise the potential of the main scheme. On the basis of this, the report made a number of significant recommendations for the implementation of the main scheme. 

My role on the project was to direct the rapid implementation of a cohort of around 45 in-depth interviews across the heat networks industry, and to lead on the analysis and writing of the report (not Chapter 3).

You can access the full report and recommendations here.