Delivery confirmed for new Kensington & Chelsea heat network

Water and energy efficiency firm Cenergist has been appointed by the London authority to work on a new flagship zero-carbon district project. 

Valued at £12.67million, the Notting Dale Heat Network will offer 100% renewable power to ten residential blocks at Lancaster West Estate in North Kensington. Accounting for the energy use of 750 individual homes, a central air source heat pump will be linked to upgraded pipework and heating systems within each residence. 

Due for completion late-2027, in addition to apartments Kensington Aldridge Academy, Kensington Leisure Centre, and various business units currently occupied by small companies will also benefit from being connected to the project. A further 19 freehold homes also fall into the mix, with the complete package just the first phase of a wider project planned for the neighbourhood. 

‘We’re the only authority in the UK introducing a heat network as part of a deep retrofit – it’s a huge challenge so having reliable experts in place is crucial,’ said Cllr Sof McVeigh, lead member for housing Management, Housing Safety, and Building New Homes. ‘We’re proud to be taking the next step towards making Lancaster West Estate the biggest eco-neighbourhood in the UK and offering renewable, reliable energy to our residents, with a price promise until 2030.’

Earlier this summer, Environment Journal reported on how Essex County Council had approached a huge shortfall in trained retrofit professionals by investing in a fast track training route. Find out how this has impacted the local economy here. 

More on retrofit: 

NatWest partners on free retrofit training for construction workers

City of London report calls for green skills training

Leeds City Council decarbonisation scheme celebrated for cutting fuel poverty

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