The latest research indicates that waste heat from data centres in the UK could potentially heat millions of homes by 2035, highlighting the untapped potential of this low-carbon heat source. The report emphasizes the need for investment in heat network infrastructure to harness this valuable resource.
The analysis, conducted by EnergiRaven and Viegand Maagøe, projects a significant increase in recoverable heat from data centres, estimating that they could heat between 3.5 million and 6.3 million homes in the next decade. This comes at a time when the UK faces challenges in both expanding digital infrastructure and decarbonizing heat.
One proposed solution is to establish strategic ‘Heat Highways’ that can transport waste heat over longer distances and connect multiple sources and demand centers. By investing in larger thermal networks, the UK can not only heat homes but also improve grid balancing, enhance energy security, and reduce reliance on imported fossil fuels.
