UK Power Networks (UKPN) has introduced Right to Heat, a low-carbon heating pilot for social housing.
UKPN is working with Stonewater, Social Energy, Passiv UK, and gas distribution network SGN on the trial, which will see hybrid boilers, that use both gas and electricity, installed alongside other technologies, in 25 homes,
The compact hybrid heating systems work by using smart controls that can automatically switch between gas and electricity at certain times, depending on different factors including changing energy costs. By using electric heating at times, residents will use less natural gas overall.
With solar panels providing renewable energy and batteries storing the power for later, residents will also use less energy from the electricity network – helping to save money and reduce household emissions.
Adam Masters, Environmental Sustainability Manager at Stonewater, said: “We understand the importance of everyone having a warm, comfortable and affordable place that they can call home. Our involvement with Right to Heat will enable more of our customers, but also residents of other housing providers, to reap the environmental and cost benefits of low-carbon heating – sooner rather than later.”
Ian Cameron, Head of Customer Services and Innovation at UK Power Networks, said: “Right to Heat is about creating a scalable template for social housing so no one is left behind in tackling the climate crisis. We’re determined to make the transition work for all of customers, no matter their circumstances.”
SGN’s regional development manager Dave Raymond added: “What makes this exciting project so unique is the exceptional collaboration from all the partners involved, as well as its focus on those in society who otherwise would have difficulty in keeping up with Net Zero.”
Right to Heat continues to March 2023, and follows UK Power Networks’ HyCompact project, which is testing hybrid heating systems in seven homes across Wales, London and the South East with gas network Wales & West Utilities.
