Heat network plan revealed

LOCKERBIE has been suggested as an ideal spot for the development of a ‘shared heat collector network’.

The town has been flagged for a possible scheme, using industrial waste heat from Steven’s Croft Power Station, above.

That heat sits at low temperatures, between 30-40 degrees, and is currently rejected into the atmosphere.

But officials at the council and South of Scotland Enterprise (SOSE) say it ‘presents an opportunity’ for the town and could have ‘significant economic, environmental and social benefits’.

They suggest a pipeline is installed to transmit it to the town, where heat pumps would then warm it up further to meet individual buildings’ needs.

Up to eight hub connections could be run off it, including the schools campus, and it could also be used in homes.

The idea features in the South of Scotland Heat Networks Prospectus launched this week by SOSE.

The document identifies a total of 19 heat network opportunities across the south of Scotland region. They would cover over 2400 domestic and non-domestic properties and provide approximately 120,000 megawatt hours of heat per year.

The estimated capital cost of creating these networks would be approximately £120 million but they would create new jobs and help tackle fuel poverty.

SOSE and the council now hope the prospectus can inspire practical action and investment

in pilot schemes and larger projects.

As well as Lockerbie, nine other communities are earmarked for shared heat collector style networks. They are: Crossmichael, Smailholm, Swinton, Langholm, Gretna, Tweedbank, Kelloholm, Selkirk and Annan.

Meanwhile, larger district heat networks are mooted for Dumfries, Stranraer, Darnick/Melrose, Galashiels, Peebles and Hawick.

It’s also noted that the shared heat collector models could be applicable in many other towns, villages, streets and new developments.

A series of events and webinars are being planned to provide more information.

Commenting, SOSE chair Russel Griggs OBE said: “This prospectus highlights the massive potential for heat networks in the South of Scotland, providing heat for low cost and lower impact on the environment.

“Alongside our partners in both local councils, we want the South of Scotland to be leading the way in developing smaller shared heat collector style network and believe this prospectus can inspire practical action and investment in pilot projects.”

Dumfries and Galloway Council leader Cllr Stephen Thompson added: “Heat networks offer a real opportunity to decarbonise heating, reduce carbon emissions, tackle fuel poverty, and create new jobs and skills.”

“We’re working in partnership with South of Scotland Enterprise and Scottish Borders Council to identify practical, place-based solutions that can deliver long-term economic, environmental and social benefits.

“This prospectus lays the groundwork for meaningful investment and action, and we look forward to seeing these opportunities develop into real-world projects that support our region’s transition to Net Zero.”

Cabinet Secretary for Housing Màiri McAllan is aware of the situation and said: “We are working closely with local and regional bodies to realise the full potential of heat networks and I welcome the leadership of South of Scotland Enterprise and its partners in producing this prospectus, which will be a valuable addition to our resources and knowledge base.”