Solihull’s Low Carbon Energy Network Gains Momentum

The town centre of Solihull is set to undergo a green revolution with the introduction of an innovative Low Carbon Energy Network. Solihull Council has joined forces with Vital Energi to bring affordable low carbon heating to the heart of the town, marking a significant milestone in the council’s ambitious plans to decarbonise the borough over the next two decades.
The cutting-edge energy network will produce low carbon heat and power from a single energy centre, delivering it directly to town centre buildings through a network of underground pipes and cables. The Energy Centre, to be constructed next to a leisure centre, will incorporate a variety of renewable and low carbon energy solutions, including Air Source Heat Pumps (ASHP).
After a rigorous selection process, Vital Energi Ltd has been appointed as the contractor to spearhead the project, responsible for the construction, operation, and maintenance of the new network. The initial phase will supply heat and power to both public and private sector customers, such as council-owned buildings and educational institutions.
Future phases of the network will extend its reach to additional town centre buildings and integrate with planned commercial and residential developments in alignment with Solihull Council’s Town Centre Masterplan.
Funding for this groundbreaking initiative has been secured through the government’s Heat Networks Investment Project (HNIP), the West Midlands Combined Authority, and the council’s own investment, underlining a strong commitment to driving down carbon emissions in the borough.
Councillor Andy Mackiewicz, Portfolio Holder for Climate Change and Planning, expressed his enthusiasm for the project, highlighting the positive impact it will have on both the environment and the community. He emphasised the importance of accessible low carbon energy in reducing carbon footprints while enhancing energy efficiency.
Gemma Dyson, Pre-Construction Director at Vital Energi, echoed the Council’s sentiment, pledging to collaborate closely to deliver an energy network that will significantly reduce carbon emissions and pave the way for further sustainable initiatives across the borough.
Throughout the project’s development, Sustainable Energy Ltd has provided crucial technical expertise and will continue to support the construction phase. Director Chrissy Woodman commended the project as a crucial step towards achieving the Council’s decarbonisation goals and expressed pride in contributing to such a transformative initiative.
With the launch of the town centre energy network, Solihull is set to lead the way in sustainable energy solutions, setting a precedent for eco-friendly developments in the region. The partnership between Solihull Council and Vital Energi represents a bold commitment to environmental stewardship and community welfare, demonstrating a shared vision for a greener, cleaner future.
Image from Solihull Council