UK district heating networks

District heating: Keeping communities warm and cosy

Copper Consultancy is at the forefront of district heating deployment and its expansion across the UK – helping shape narratives and understanding among local communities. With a successfully approved project, we are delivering on the UK’s mission for cleaner and cheaper heating.

The way we heat our homes and businesses needs to change

Heat generation accounts for about 20% of UK greenhouse gas emissions; however, district heating can unlock significant emissions reductions and cost savings for businesses and homes. By 2050, the UK Government aims to have 18% of UK homes connected to district heating, up from just 2% today, and we’re helping to make it happen.

So far, we’ve supported the industry in replacing old heating infrastructure with thousands of miles of innovative, low-carbon district heating networks that are more resilient, efficient and cost-effective.

But upgrading the UK’s heating networks is a big task, involving significant infrastructure and construction projects. This is why we prioritise community engagement and building awareness of the importance and benefits of district heating and the opportunities it offers businesses and homes.

Bristol City Leap

Generating 180 MW of zero-carbon energy and engaging half a million residents, Bristol City Leap (BCL) is a public–private partnership delivering city-wide decarbonisation. With plans to install over 180 km of heat network infrastructure, enough to heat 12,000 homes, Bristol has become the blueprint for local net zero delivery. The Copper team led the brand development, stakeholder strategy, content creation and media relations for BCL. We focused not only on winning national recognition but also on gaining local support by mobilising marginalised communities across the region. With social value at its core, BCL estimates £61.5 million total investment will be brought back into the city, with a further 1,000 jobs being created in the region.

Creating 1,000 jobs in the city