Hub Support
The North East & Yorkshire Net Zero Hub is host to a dedicated programme of support helping local authorities to prepare for Heat Network Zoning.
New to Heat Network Zoning? Check out our one page explainer
Heat networks use insulated underground pipes which distribute heat from centralised sources to nearby buildings – removing the need for individual boilers or heaters in those buildings by utilising heat which would otherwise go to waste.
The Energy Act 2023 introduced Heat Network Zoning, which will see government and local authorities working together to designate areas where heat networks can provide the lowest cost, low carbon heating. Certain buildings within zones will then be required to connect to these networks.
To support local areas with the introduction of Heat Network Zoning, the Local Net Zero Hubs host local zoning implementation support for local authorities on behalf of the Department for Energy Security and Net Zero’s central implementation team.
This support involves:
- Coordinating zoning communications to prepare local authorities for heat zoning
- Studying and raising awareness of local needs and supporting informed decision making which optimizes the use of local heat energy.
- Providing a link between local operations and national objectives – ensuring local activities align with broader strategic goals.
- Helping to plug gaps in local knowledge and preparedness for zoning.
As part of this work, we’ve started producing a monthly Heat Network Zoning update – you can read the most recent edition on the below link.
Heat Network Update – September 2025
Heat Network Update – October 2025
Heat Network Update – November 2025
Heat Network Update – December 2025
To find out more, please contact our Heat Network Zoning Lead, Lauren at lauren.kemp@westyorks-ca.gov.uk
Other Support
Heat Network Efficiency Scheme
The Heat Network Efficiency Scheme (HNES) is a capital and revenue grant fund that supports improvements to existing district heating or communal heating projects. The scheme is open to public, private and third sector applicants in England and Wales. It is funded by the Department for Energy Security and Net Zero and administered by Gemserv. The scheme is running multiple funding rounds.
To receive scheme updates, contact hnes@gemserv.com.
Green Heat Network Fund
The three-year £288 million Green Heat Network Fund (GHNF) is a significant government initiative that provides capital grants for the development of new and existing low and zero-carbon heat networks.
The fund provides support to organisations in the public, private and third sectors in England. There will be a series of quarterly application rounds until the scheme closes in 2025. The Fund is managed by Triple Point Heat Networks Investment Management.
Heat Networks Delivery Unit
The Heat Networks Delivery Unit (HNDU) is a government programme that provides grant funding and guidance to local authorities for the early stages of heat network project development. Registered social landlords, property developers, universities, and NHS trusts can also apply.
Financial support from HNDU can be applied for via regular funding rounds. Costs eligible for funding are externally commissioned consultancy costs for heat network development work. The funding is targeted at the early stages of heat network projects, such as heat mapping, energy master planning, technical and economic feasibility and detailed project development.
Other support provided by HNDU comprises a range of technical, commercial, and legal guidance. This is provided through the HNDU webpages and at in-person events. The Unit has also established an online information-sharing site, which allows local authorities to exchange learning.