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HIUs & district heating
The future of heat – network zoning
With the journey to Net Zero well underway, Ian Lock, director of sales for new build & multioccupancy at Baxi Heating, discusses how district heating will be key for the future
T
here is increasing pressure to adopt low carbon solutions as a result of changing regulations like the proposed Future Homes Standard set for 2025.
Navigating decarbonisation
At the same time, there is no silver bullet for decarbonisation. Developers and heating professionals must therefore consider the requirements of every project when implementing solutions. For multioccupancy buildings, district heating (also referred to heat networks), represent an opportunity. Typically, installing an external heat pump unit for each apartment poses a difficult task due to the limited space available. In existing buildings, larger radiators may be needed to meet system design temperature requirements. Pipework may also require changes, as domestic heating systems in recent years are designed with microbore piping, which can cause issues with hydraulic design.
District heating
The government envisages 18% of heat to be generated through district heating by 2050.
Consisting of a centralised source, district heating offers a more logical
approach for decarbonising multioccupancy buildings, as each dwelling can be fitted with a heat interface unit without the need to factor in space for individual heating systems. As such, previously impractical applications like heat pumps could then be implemented in the centralised heat source to provide low carbon heating. Furthermore, there is the potential for hydrogen technology to be implemented once it becomes available. In view of driving decarbonisation, heat networks also have the potential to harness waste heat from various settings, including from industrial processes. By drawing thermal energy from these sources, district heating can offset carbon emissions elsewhere, while providing heating to dwellings. The Government also plans to support district heating. For example, designated zones could be implemented by the government as part of local
planning regulations by 2025. Following this, there could be an obligation for housing in busy urban areas to connect to the local heat network.
Meeting aims
To realise national targets, there will need to be more than just regulatory impetus. Recognised avenues of support are equally important for progress. In this vein, funding is set to be introduced through the Green Heat Network Fund (GHNF) Transition Scheme. From April, local authorities and public sector applicants can also apply for grant funding across heat network development projects. The GHNF will serve to incentivise the housing sector and provide financial support in low carbon applications. Professional guidance is another key element in implementing solutions –
from design and specification, through to installation. Baxi looks to play its part here in supporting every stage of the process, ensuring optimum performance. With the right level of technical support and guidance, the residential sector
can navigate regulatory requirements and incorporate low carbon solutions for a Net Zero future.
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April 2022 35
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