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- The £1 billion scheme will provide low-carbon heating to iconic buildings, including Parliament and Downing Street, by utilizing innovative heat sources like the Thames and the London Underground.
- The initiative, led by DESNZ and Westminster Council, aims to cut 75,000 tonnes of CO2 annually, create 500 jobs, and improve air quality by eliminating gas boiler emissions.
- Construction begins in 2026, with the Swan Partnership planning investments up to £1 billion by 2050.
The UK’s Department for Energy Security and Net Zero (DESNZ) and Westminster Council have launched a £1 billion heat network aimed at providing low-carbon heating to some of London’s most famous sites. The project, spearheaded by the South Westminster Area Network (Swan) Partnership—comprising heat network developers Hemiko and Vital Energi—will connect iconic landmarks like the Houses of Parliament, Downing Street, and the National Gallery to sustainable energy sources.
Innovative Energy Approach
The planned system will harness waste heat from sources such as the London Underground and the River Thames, potentially delivered via “heat barges” storing thermal energy from nearby power stations. This network of underground pipes will transfer the heat through exchangers to existing heating systems, preserving the historic appearance of listed buildings.
Miatta Fahnbulleh, minister for energy consumers at DESNZ, highlighted the importance of the project, saying: “This project will help support hundreds of jobs and make bold new strides towards boosting our energy security, as one of seven heat network zones we’re backing with over £5 million funding.”
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Ambitious Investment and Reach
The Swan Partnership aims to invest £100 million in the next three years, scaling to £1 billion by 2050, making this one of the largest heat networks in the UK. The initiative covers central Westminster, reaching from Pimlico to Temple Underground Station, and will offer sustainable heating to structures like Tate Britain and Somerset House.
Toby Heysham, CEO of Hemiko, noted the visual and environmental benefits: “Londoners and tourists alike will continue to be able to enjoy the beauty of London’s iconic buildings – they’ll simply be decarbonised buildings, but you won’t be able to tell the difference from the outside.”
Net Zero and Community Impact
The network is projected to reduce 75,000 tonnes of CO2 per year and create 500 new jobs, supporting local employment and clean energy goals. It will also improve air quality by removing gas flues and the nitrogen oxides emissions they produce.
Adam Hug, leader of Westminster City Council, emphasized the project’s significance: “However, these new low-carbon district heat networks will tap into local waste heat sources, delivering clean and affordable energy to those who need it most.”
Construction is set to commence in 2026, marking a significant milestone in Westminster’s journey to a net-zero carbon future.
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