Updated: Updated guidance document
The Heat Networks Delivery Unit was established in Summer 2013, in response to a commitment in The future of heating: meeting the challenge(published in March 2013).
The attached guidance gives some background to the establishment of the Heat Networks Delivery Unit, and in particular how the unit and funding available will support Local Authorities in overcoming early stage barriers to establishing Heat Networks. This will enable Local Authorities in England and Wales to meet their objectives of decarbonisation, local growth, improved energy efficiency and a reduction in fuel poverty.
The guidance lists a series of criteria that local authorities must fulfil in order to be successful with their bids, and details the specialist technical, engineering and commercial assistance that is available to them. The funding available to local authorities will cover 67% of the projected external costs of planning and constructing a Heat Network. Local authorities are required to match fund the remaining 33%.
The first round for local authorities to bid for funding closed on 15th November 2013. The second funding round is now open, and will close on 31 January 2013. If you are a local authority and wish to consider applying to the Heat Networks Delivery Unit, please email hndu@decc.gsi.gov.uk to request an application form.
Next year’s bidding round dates have not been confirmed, but the below table gives an indication of when we expect to hold future rounds.
| 2014/15 | First round | Second round | Third round | Fourth round |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Invite applications | April | June | September | Mid November |
| Application deadline | End May | End July | End October | End January 2015 |