£2m heat network could cut energy bills

A HEAT network system which could eventually lead to the cutting of energy bills for residents is being planned for Bridgend town centre.

The project’s £2 million first phase involves the installation of a combined heat and power boiler at Bridgend Life Centre which would then be used to warm not only the leisure centre but the nearby bowls hall, the civic offices and the new Sunnyside development being built by Linc Cymru.

Subject to obtaining a £665,000 grant from the UK government and a full business case being approved, the network’s first phase will be operational in October 2020.

Bridgend County Borough Council which has developed the project hopes further heat networks will be built across the county with the potential for interlinking them over time.

A second scheme is being looked into centred on the Princess of Wales Hospital, Glanrhyd Hospital and the Wildmill Estate.

And future phases involve the network expanding to connect dozens of schools, houses in Brackla, the Parc Afon Ewenny development, South Wales Police Headquarters and industrial parks.

Bridgend Council began investigating heat network opportunities six years ago seeking to secure heat supplies over a 50-year period and reduce carbon emissions and energy costs for customers.

With energy being supplied to the four connected buildings through underground pipes in the network’s first phase, the council is expected to reduce its energy costs by between 5-10%.

On Tuesday April 24, Bridgend Council’s cabinet approved the financial case for the project.