Midlothian district heating plans updated for councillors.

The Midlothian Council is making significant strides in its efforts to decarbonize all its buildings and establish district heating zones, as councillors were updated on the progress of these plans. This forward-thinking approach is aligned with the Local Heat and Energy Efficiency Strategy (LHEES), which was discussed at a recent full council meeting.

The measures outlined in the LHEES are crucial in helping Scotland achieve its ambitious greenhouse gas reduction goals, aiming to reach Net Zero emissions by 2045. Additionally, the strategy aims to address fuel poverty in Scottish households by 2040, demonstrating a commitment to sustainability and social equity.

One of the key initiatives in Midlothian includes a summer campaign to raise awareness among tenants and homeowners about available funding and support for improving energy efficiency in their homes. This proactive approach aims to empower residents to make environmentally conscious choices while reducing energy consumption.

Collaborating with Midlothian Energy Ltd (MEL), a joint venture between the council and Vattenfall Heat UK, the council is investing £22 million in various initiatives over the next five years. Among these initiatives is a flagship programme to provide low-carbon heat to over 10,000 households, educational institutions, and retail properties in the new Shawfair town.

The initial phase of supplying heat to homes in Shawfair is expected to commence in the near future, marking a significant milestone in the transition towards sustainable heating solutions. MEL will also work closely with the council’s Local Heat and Energy Efficiency Team to identify additional heat network opportunity zones across Midlothian.

Highlighting the council’s commitment to environmental stewardship, Councillor Dianne Alexander, Cabinet Member for Environment, emphasized the importance of acting promptly to make Midlothian’s buildings more environmentally friendly. By prioritizing green initiatives, the council aims to retain economic benefits within the local economy while creating a more sustainable future for all residents.