Scotland has made some big moves in their work towards developing a low carbon network. They have just begun building the country’s first ‘fifth generation’ heating network at their manufacturing innovation district in Renfrewshire.

The first pipes of the renewable energy network were lowered into position at the Advanced Manufacturing District Scotland (AMIDS) site. Once in place, the sustainable system will produce 90% less carbon emissions than traditional gas boilers. It will direct water into a new energy center being built in a nearby Scottish Water site. Here, low temperature heat is extracted and then distributed through 3.7km of underground pipes and then upgraded by low carbon heat pumps into heating and hot water at each of the district’s businesses. 

FES Energy, a renewable energy engineering firm, secured the contract to design and complete this network, using their extensive R&D experience and sustainable expertise. 

Renfrewshire Council leader Iain Nicolson said: “AMIDS acts as a magnet for advanced manufacturing companies to locate to Scotland and tap into the incredible innovation and skills expertise at the research centres based here, so it’s fitting that a place of innovation will be served by this innovative low carbon heating system.

“Not only will it provide a cost-effective, green option for the businesses it serves, it will demonstrate the potential of the technology for others to follow suit and supports our pledge in Renfrewshire to be carbon neutral by 2030.”

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