The recent announcement of over £100 million awarded through the Green Heat Network Fund (GHNF) is more than just a funding milestone, it’s a clear signal that the UK is ready to accelerate the decarbonisation of its heating infrastructure. 

As someone deeply involved in the energy and infrastructure space, it’s genuinely exciting to see government support moving from talk to tangible action. Eight heat network schemes across cities like Bristol, Derby, Lincoln, and Westminster have secured funding, each with ambitious goals and, importantly, real local impact. These aren’t just pipe dreams (pardon the pun); they’re creating jobs, unlocking private investment, and, crucially, cutting carbon. 

From waste heat recovery in Derby to river-sourced heat in East London and the Thames-powered South Westminster Area Network, what these projects show is that local authorities are not just capable of leading the clean heat transition, they’re vital to it. They know the needs of their communities, the buildings, the challenges, and increasingly, they have access to the funding and technologies to make meaningful change. 

At Colloide, we’ve seen this potential first-hand through our work on the Viking Energy Network in Jarrow, which harnesses heat from the River Tyne to supply public buildings. It’s not just an engineering success, it’s a model for how sustainable, smart design can serve the public good. Similarly, the recently awarded Bloomsbury Heat and Power project builds on these principles of innovation, efficiency, and collaboration with local stakeholders. If there’s one takeaway here, it’s this: the opportunities are real, and they’re happening now.  

The funding is in place, the technical solutions are proven, and public awareness of sustainability has never been higher. But action is needed. These networks won’t build themselves, and the demand on local authorities to deliver quickly, efficiently, and sustainably will only grow. 

At Colloide, we’re proud to stand alongside local councils, delivery partners and technology providers to turn vision into infrastructure. Whether it’s new energy solutions, waste heat recovery, or integration of key systems, we’re here to support the journey. 

This Green Heat Network Fund (GHNF) announcement is a moment worth celebrating, but it’s also a call to roll up our sleeves. The heat is on, and the future is low carbon. 

Key players in this funding: Vattenfall, 1Energy, Hemiko, SWAN Partnership, Sandwell Metropolitan Borough Council, Trafford Council, Severn Wye Energy Agency, East London Energy

Contact Colloide

Want to learn more about how we support district heating projects across the UK and Ireland? Visit https://colloide.com/energy-solutions/  

Or get directly in touch and let’s get chatting – [email protected]  

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