Warming Up to Efficiency: Understanding the Potential Benefits and Pitfalls of Data Centre Heat Export in the UK
Access our report examining the potential benefits and challenges of data centre heat export in the UK.
As the Department for Energy Security and Net Zero (DESNZ) prepares to introduce a regulatory framework for heat networks to enable heat network zoning in towns and cities across England, we delve into the potential benefits and pitfalls of using data centres as heat sources.
The utilisation of data centre heat for district heating networks in the UK holds significant promise, particularly when viewed from sustainability and corporate social responsibility standpoints. Embracing a circular economy model, data centres can redirect surplus residual heat to local heat networks, optimising resource utilisation. This not only aligns with environmental goals but also addresses fuel poverty by providing cost-effective heating to communities in need.
This techUK report underscores the industry's eagerness to actively contribute to heat networks, showcasing members’ success stories and highlighting ongoing initiatives.
It also entails an in-depth exploration of the practical challenges related to exporting data centre heat that must be addressed to ensure effective and sustainable integration. This includes addressing issues associated with seasonal changes, infrastructure proximity, varying occupancy levels, emerging technology, and potentially counterproductive sustainability outcomes.
The report was submitted alongside our response to the government’s consultation on the proposals for heat network zoning in England.
We are delighted to publish this new report on data centre heat export which, if done well, has huge potential to reduce energy use, carbon emissions, and costs for local homes and businesses. This new report showcases best practices and offers practical guidance for developing and implementing data centre heat export while not shying away from the barriers that are preventing widespread adoption.
Residual heat energy reuse isn't just efficient from a circular energy perspective — where appropriate, it's a way for data centres to give back to the communities where they operate, creating a sustainable cycle of energy and goodwill. As the backbone of our digital economy, data centres have the potential to play a crucial role in securing a greener future for all.
techUK will continue collaborating with the government, local authorities, regulators and other stakeholders to create a suitable framework that would enable data centres to seamlessly contribute to heat networks, ultimately facilitating the provision of green and affordable heating to communities.
Warming Up to Efficiency: A Cross-Industry Panel on Data Centre Heat Export
Join us for a thought-provoking event that delves into the intersection of digital infrastructure and cleaner, greener heat to warm communities.
Register now to attend our hybrid panel discussion on 19 March at 4 PM, sponsored by Equinix, where experts will explore how diverse industries can work together to tackle challenges related to data centre heat export. The event will be followed by a networking mixer.
For more information please contact:
Weronika Dorociak
Weronika joined techUK as a Programme Manager for Sustainability in October 2023.
Luisa C. Cardani
Luisa C. Cardani is the Head of the Data Centres Programme at techUK, aiming to provide a collective voice for UK operators and working with government to improve business environment for the data centres sector.
techUK - Committed to Climate Action
Visit our Climate Action Hub to learn more or to register for regular updates.
By 2030, digital technology can cut global emissions by 15%. Cloud computing, 5G, AI and IoT have the potential to support dramatic reductions in carbon emissions in sectors such as transport, agriculture, and manufacturing. techUK is working to foster the right policy framework and leadership so we can all play our part. For more information on how techUK can support you, please visit our Climate Action Hub and click ‘contact us’.
Upcoming climate events
Latest news and insights
Get our climate insights straight to your inbox
Climate, Environment and Sustainability updates
Sign-up to get the latest updates and opportunities from our Climate, Environment and Sustainability programme.
Contact the team
Craig Melson
Craig Melson
Craig is Associate Director for Climate, Environment and Sustainability and leads on our work in these areas ranging from climate change, ESG disclosures and due diligence, through to circular economy, business and human rights, conflict minerals and post-Brexit regulation.
Prior to joining techUK he worked in public affairs and policy has an avid interest in new and emerging technologies. Craig has a degree in Ancient History from King’s College London and spends his time watching Watford FC and holding out hope for Half Life 3.
- Email:
- [email protected]
- Phone:
- 020 7331 2172
- Twitter:
- @techUK,@techUK
- Website:
- www.techuk.org,www.techuk.org
- LinkedIn:
- https://uk.linkedin.com/in/craig-melson-25479936,https://uk.linkedin.com/in/craig-melson-25479936
Weronika Dorociak
Weronika Dorociak
Weronika joined techUK as a Programme Manager for Sustainability in October 2023.
Her role involves advocating for the tech sector in front of key policymakers and stakeholders. Weronika also leads the environmental and sustainability efforts within the Data Centres Group.
Prior to joining techUK, Weronika worked in public affairs and government relations in the legal sector, focusing on innovation and ESG within financial services. She also spent 2 years working as a Caseworker at Parliament. She holds a BA in Politics & International Relations from Queen Mary University of London.
Outside of work, Weronika can be found on a tennis court, at the gym, practicing yoga, or indulging in her love for Taylor Swift's music as a dedicated Swiftie.
- Email:
- [email protected]
- LinkedIn:
- https://www.linkedin.com/in/weronikaedorociak/
Josh Turpin
Josh Turpin
Josh joined techUK as a Programme Manager for Telecoms and Net Zero in August 2024.
In this role, working jointly across the techUK Telecoms and Climate Programmes, Josh is responsible for leading on telecoms infrastructure deployment and uptake and supporting innovation opportunities, as well as looking at how the tech sector can be further utilised in the UK’s decarbonisation efforts.
Prior to joining techUK, Josh’s background was in public affairs and communications, working for organisations across a diverse portfolio of sectors including defence, telecoms and infrastructure; aiding clients through stakeholder engagement, crisis communications, media outreach as well as secretariat duties.
Outside of work, Josh has a keen interest in music, painting and sailing.
- Email:
- [email protected]
- Phone:
- 020 7331 2038
- LinkedIn:
- https://www.linkedin.com/in/josh-turpin/
Lucas Banach
Lucas Banach
Lucas Banach is Programme Assistant at techUK, he works on a range of programmes including Data Centres; Climate, Environment & Sustainability; Market Access and Smart Infrastructure and Systems.
Before that Lucas who joined in 2008, held various roles in our organisation, which included his role as Office Executive, Groups and Concept Viability Administrator, and most recently he worked as Programme Executive for Public Sector. He has a postgraduate degree in International Relations from the Andrzej Frycz-Modrzewski Cracow University.
- Email:
- [email protected]
- Phone:
- 020 7331 2006
- Twitter:
- @techUK
- Website:
- www.techuk.org
- LinkedIn:
- https://www.linkedin.com/in/lucas-banach-50139650
Learn more about our Climate campaign
