Decentralised and Renewable Energy Infrastructure

    Contains Options

Policy EN1 provides the overall approach to the sustainable design of new development. It sets out standards and criteria to be met. Chapter 8 also includes policies on energy and net zero carbon buildings, waste and the circular economy and electric vehicle infrastructure.    

Southampton’s District Energy Scheme is one of the oldest and largest city centre schemes and first began delivering heat through a district heating network in 1986. Since then, the scheme has grown with new energy centres and customers and delivers a source of heating, cooling and power. It is an important part of Southampton’s infrastructure and there is an expectation that connection should be made to the district energy network where there is an existing network.  

Connection to the district energy network may significantly increase the attractiveness of the development to potential occupiers through reduced space and maintenance needs and be the most effective way of addressing the C02 reduction requirements. Cooling is likely to become an increasing issue in the future with global temperature rises, and the district energy network includes a provision for cooling. EQUANS (previously known as ENGIE) operate the Southampton District Energy Scheme. For city centre developments, contact should be made with EQUANS, or their successor if applicable, to ascertain where connection to the district energy network is viable.