Bracknell heat network feasibility study

Bracknell Forest Council (BFC) have commissioned a techno-economic feasibility study to investigate the deliverability and viability of a low-carbon heat network in Bracknell town. The objective of the feasibility study is to support evidence-based decision-making with regard to the development of a heat network in Bracknell, and the opportunities it presents to decarbonise heating systems and improve energy security, air quality and heating costs for residents and businesses. If the feasibility study finds a low-carbon heat network to be deliverable and viable, it will provide the evidence base for a future commercialisation business case for prospective investors and developers. In addition to this, it will be used to inform heat network zoning policy by contributing to future zoning pipeline reviews conducted by the Department for Energy Security and Net Zero (DESNZ) and the refinement of local heat network zone boundaries and delivery. A study completion date of the 30th April 2027 has been set to enable BFC to submit findings and outputs of this study to DESNZ before the 2027 zoning pipeline review deadline which is anticipated to be April/May 2027. The overarching objectives of the feasibility study are to: 1. Identify low-carbon heat network opportunities across Bracknell town, taking into consideration emerging national heat network zoning policy, local development plans and activities, and existing heat networks. 2. Undertake an appraisal of possible scheme options and identify which areas should progress to techno economic feasibility assessment. 3. Undertake techno-economic feasibility studies for the shortlisted options, enabling informed, evidence-based decisions on the advancement of heat network development and zoning in Bracknell. 4. Identify and pursue any additional priority workstreams, stakeholder engagement or enabling actions that emerge through the study and would help advance the delivery of a viable heat network in Bracknell. 5. Describe the next steps required to take heat network projects through to commercialisation and construction, including recommendations for phased construction, risk mitigation, and future Green Heat Network Fund (GHNF) applications. 6. Produce a comprehensive Feasibility Report to summarise the findings of the study, together with supporting data outputs including a techno economic cashflow model, and high-level summaries including an Executive Summary.