Issue details

Continuation of District Heat Network Phase 2 Study to Develop Full Business Case

 

 

In November 2021 (Report HPS 29), Cabinet approved the funding for a study to examine the technical feasibility and economic business case for the Phase 2 expansion of the Town Centre DHN to incorporate properties and developments adjacent to the existing DHN. The study would also examine the potential to amend the fuel source from gas to a more sustainable heat source in line with the Council’s carbon reductions commitments.

The study was to be carried out in two phases, phase 1 feasibility and phase two full business case. Consultants to conduct the studies were subsequently procured and the first phase of the study (feasibility) has now been completed.

Cabinet delegated authority to the Head of Major Projects and Commercial Services in consultation with the Cabinet Member for Environment and Sustainability to review findings of the feasibility study once and decide whether to proceed with the second phase.

The feasibility study outlined an economically viable option for the expansion of the DHN, so it is recommended to proceed to the second phase of the study - the full DPD (detailed project development) and business case assessment for the expansion and decarbonisation of the Town Centre DHN.

HNDU funding of £129,950 has now been secured for this work, which the council will match fund with £55,000 from the Town Centre Capital budget (already allocated).

The DPD study could commence as early as January 2023 and will take around 9 months.

Decision type: Non-key

Decision status: For Determination

Notice of proposed decision first published: 16/01/2023

Decision due: 11 Jan 2023 by Head of Major Projects and Commercial Services

Contact: Louise Skipton-Carter, Sustainability Manager Email: Louise.skipton-carter@crawley.gov.uk.

Decisions