Summary:
1. UK Power Networks is expanding its SHIELD scheme, which pairs rooftop solar and home batteries with mini data centers to recover waste heat for space heating.
2. The company plans to install and manage technologies in up to 300 social homes over the next four years, providing affordable heating solutions to low-income households.
3. The SHIELD scheme aims to reduce energy bills by 20-40% for participating tenants and support the country’s climate goals by providing innovative technologies at no cost.
Article:
UK Power Networks has recently announced its plans to broaden the implementation of its Smart Heat and Intelligent Energy in Low-income Districts (SHIELD) scheme. This initiative involves combining rooftop solar and home batteries with mini data centers to harness waste heat for space heating. The company has been conducting trials of the SHIELD scheme in the East and South East of England and is now gearing up for a larger roll-out that will span the next four years. Under this expansion, UK Power Networks aims to equip up to 300 social homes with innovative technologies to enhance heating solutions for low-income households.
Every property participating in the SHIELD scheme will receive solar panels and battery storage, with about a third also incorporating Thermify’s ‘HeatHub’. This compact unit, similar in size to a large heat pump, houses a cluster of Raspberry Pi Compute Modules immersed in oil. The waste heat generated is then transferred to domestic space and hot-water systems, effectively replacing traditional boilers while simultaneously running customer workloads on a distributed cloud. Additionally, a new social heating tariff has been introduced to ensure affordability for low-income tenants, with a flat standing charge of £5.60 per month including VAT, eliminating the need for a per-kWh unit rate.
Luca Grella, Head of Innovation at UK Power Networks, emphasized the transformative nature of the SHIELD scheme, stating that it empowers households to manage their energy costs and contribute to the country’s climate goals. Charlie Edgar, overseeing the SHIELD work on behalf of Eastlight Community Homes, expressed optimism about the pilot results and the potential benefits for hundreds of homes. Jon Cape, Managing Director at Power Circle Projects Ltd, highlighted the positive impact of SHIELD on improving the quality of life for residents, assisting landlords in meeting net zero goals, and supporting the country’s data processing needs in an environmentally friendly and cost-effective manner.
In conclusion, the SHIELD scheme represents a significant step towards providing sustainable and affordable heating solutions to vulnerable members of the community while aligning with broader environmental objectives. Through the integration of cutting-edge technologies and a focus on reducing energy costs, UK Power Networks is paving the way for a cleaner and more efficient future for all.
