Decision

A Contract is being sought for the delivery of a techno-economic feasibility study to investigate the deliverability and viability of a low-carbon heat network in Bracknell.

Reasons for the decision

The council has declared a climate and biodiversity emergency and Aim 2 of the council’s Climate Change Strategy is to support the reduction of net borough emissions to zero as close to 2030 as possible.

A priority action identified in the strategy against this aim is to investigate opportunities for district heating in the borough, particularly around the centre of Bracknell and the business areas, and for re-using waste heat.
This has been echoed in the climate change action plan for 2026 to 2027, with heat network proposal development included as a major project and the procurement of a feasibility study as a specific deliverable.

As well as having the potential to decarbonise heating systems in Bracknell on a significant scale, a heat network also has the potential to improve energy security, air quality and heating costs for residents and businesses.

Alternative options considered

Not applicable.