A REPORT detailing the outcome of the full business case for phase 1 of Solihull’s proposed town centre energy network was taken to the Council’s Cabinet session.
The network will utilise low carbon and renewable energy, distributing heat from a single Energy Centre, directly into town centre buildings via a system of underground pipes.
Full Planning approval for the Energy Centre building, which will lie at the heart of this network (on land next to Tudor Grange Leisure Centre), was granted in May 2021.
Currently, CO2 emitted from heating in Solihull accounts for almost 30% of the borough’s total greenhouse gas emissions (over 400,000 tonnes of CO2e annually).
Coun Andy Mackiewicz, portfolio holder for climate change said: “The establishment of a heat network in Solihull town centre offers a clear opportunity to make significant reductions in CO2 emissions while offering customers greater certainty in a transitioning energy market.
The potential carbon savings associated with our heat network are considerable.
“Phase 1 alone is projected to save 26,109 tonnes of CO2e over 25 years. That’s equivalent to the total annual emissions of over 5000 individual Solihull residents. Phase 1b, is projected to save a further 10,000 tonnes and future phases could provide an additional 70,000 tonnes reduction.”
“This project also brings huge environmental education opportunities and builds further pride in Solihull’s low carbon commitment.”
First phase customers could be hooked up and start benefitting from the network from Autumn 2024.
