SUSTAINABILITY


Heat networks: A scalable, smart and future- ready solution for modern developments


Heat networks are increasingly recognised as one of the most effective and future- ready routes to low-carbon heating in the UK. For multi- dwelling and mixed- use developments, they offer a powerful combination of efficiency, flexibility and long-term cost stability and with new advances in HIU and substation technology, their performance is stronger than ever.


F


rom new-build apartment schemes and regeneration projects to care homes, campuses and retrofit estates, heat networks are enabling developers and building operators to centralise heat generation,


integrate renewables and meet tightening carbon requirements with confidence. As demand grows, engineering expectations are also evolving. Today’s networks are smarter, more controllable, and increasingly compatible with heat pump– led strategies. Earlier this year, NIBE expanded its UK offering to include Cetetherm’s Pioneer HIU and a full suite of substation solutions. This strategic step allows NIBE to support projects of all scales, from individual heat pump systems through to complete low-temperature networks and large district systems. For building services engineers, the benefit is clear: a single, integrated approach that brings together high- performance equipment, reliable controls and long-term operational efficiency. At the dwelling level, the Heat Interface Unit plays a pivotal role in how a network performs. The Cetetherm Pioneer HIU is designed specifically for today’s generation of heat networks. It is compact, fully electronic and engineered to deliver space heating and hot water efficiently across low, medium and high- temperature systems. With domestic hot water outputs of up to 55 kW and heating outputs of 22 kW, the Pioneer is suitable for a wide variety of applications. Crucially, it achieves a Variable Weighted Average Return Temperature (VWART) of just 31°C, aligning directly with CIBSE CP1 best practice and supporting the efficiency objectives of both heat network operators and central heat pumps.


The unit can be supplied with an integral Kamstrup heat meter for precise billing and energy monitoring and features a fully electronic control platform that enables consistent performance, tenant-friendly operation and landlord-level oversight. Features such as access restriction for prepayment systems and intuitive servicing design further simplify its use across both new- build and retrofit schemes. At the building interface, modern district heating substations play a critical role in transferring energy from the primary network to secondary systems. Cetetherm substations are engineered for high performance and low return temperatures, helping networks maintain stability and reduce heat loss. Offering capacities from 50 kW up to 25 MW, these substations scale from small residential blocks to major commercial and mixed-use developments. When paired with a heat pump, they can operate as hybrid substations, supporting low-temperature operation and enabling the network to incorporate renewable heat sources with ease. This flexibility is increasingly valuable as developers seek long- term, future-proof solutions. From initial design through to long-term operation, modern substations provide the tools


engineers need to deliver networks that are efficient, resilient and adaptable over time. Heat networks, HIUs and substations naturally complement NIBE’s existing heat pump portfolio, enabling a full-system approach that supports both centralised and distributed solutions. For developments where individual heat pumps may not be feasible, a heat network with high-performance HIUs offers a practical, space- efficient and fully electrified alternative. Paul Smith, Managing Director of NIBE UK, highlights the importance of this whole-system capability: “Heat networks are a fantastic


solution for many modern developments. By combining heat pumps, ventilation and advanced HIU and substation technology, we can help deliver low-carbon systems that are efficient, flexible and future-ready. Our aim is to give engineers the tools to design networks that operate reliably and sustainably for decades.” As part of its support for the wider industry, NIBE has also launched a CIBSE-accredited CPD titled District Heating and Cooling Solutions, designed for building-services professionals working on modern low-carbon heating systems. More information can be found https://shorturl.at/9SWwo


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20/11/25 10:57 BUILDING SERVICES & ENVIRONMENTAL ENGINEER DECEMBER 2025 9


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