SSE Energy Solutions and Scottish Water Horizons have announced a new partnership to develop low-carbon district heat networks across Scotland.
The organisations will collaborate to identify, develop, and deliver solutions that harness the ‘untapped potential’ of wastewater by capturing thermal energy that would otherwise be wasted, creating a sustainable heat source for local communities and businesses.
A first project has been identified for development in Inverness, where a Scottish Water pumping station will provide a sustainable heat source for a network serving several buildings, including local SSE and Scottish Water Offices and facilities, and other private and public sector buildings in the area.
The partnership also aims to create opportunities for local supply chains and skills development in the heat networks sector. Decarbonising heat, which currently accounts for 37% of the UK’s CO2 emissions, is said to be a crucial component in meeting the country’s ambitious net zero targets.
Ross McClory, head of business development for industrial and commercial at SSE Energy Solutions, said, “This partnership with Scottish Water Horizons represents a significant step forward in Scotland’s heat decarbonisation journey. By combining our expertise in sustainable energy solutions with Scottish Water Horizons’ experience in recovering heat from wastewater, we’re creating powerful opportunities to deliver low-carbon heating across Scotland.
“Our joint project in Inverness is just the beginning of what we expect to be a productive collaboration that will help communities and businesses across Scotland transition to cleaner, more sustainable heating solutions while supporting the country’s net zero ambitions.”
Donald MacBrayne, business development manager at Scottish Water Horizons, added, “Scottish Water Horizons is committed to unlocking the hidden value in our infrastructure to help decarbonise Scotland’s heat supply. Having already delivered and facilitated the UK’s first five heat from wastewater schemes, we have seen first-hand how effective this technology can be in delivering low carbon energy.
“The Inverness project is another step forward in using innovative approaches to support businesses and communities in reducing their carbon footprint. By partnering with SSE Energy Solutions, we can extend the reach of this technology and help drive Scotland’s transition to sustainable heat.”
