Having partnered with a multi-utility provider, GTC, Taylor Wimpey is using this joint venture to provide a low carbon solution to replace gas on low density schemes – a Community Heat Hub.

The PLC Housebuilder will use their Chilton Woods development in Sudbury to trial the hub once planning permission has been submitted this month.

Group Technical Director Stephen Andrew comments: “As we move towards the Future Homes Standard (FHS) in 2025 and the introduction of zero carbon heating with no natural gas, the network heat pump offers an innovative solution to meet FHS. Whilst this was previously used in dense high rise apartment schemes, this innovative approach offers the opportunity to provide community heating to other types of residential developments, including family homes. We are pleased to trial the GTC community heat network at Chilton Woods, Sudbury.”

The heat network solution by GTC will be ideal for traditional, low rise, new build developments involving hot water produced in a central hub and uses large scale heat pumps. Highly insulated pipes will make hot water for all individual houses, with thermal water storage tanks reducing the demand at peak times for the national grid alongside backup electric boilers providing home owners with a reliable source of heating and hot water directly into their homes.

GTC’s system will be able to decrease carbon emissions by up to 80%, meeting the anticipated requirements of the 2025 Future Homes Standard, delivering a sustainable and cost efficient solution in order to encourage businesses and homeowners to make the move from expensive fossil fuels.

The Community Heat Hub is just one way to help with today’s climate; installing solar panels and using materials more efficiently to keep heat in will also cut emissions and lower energy bills for families.

Standards raising is an essential step toward a greener and cleaner built environment, ensuring all homes are net zero ready by 2025.

Housing Minister Eddie Hughes said: “Climate change is the greatest threat we face, and we must act to protect our precious planet for future generations. The government is doing everything it can to deliver net zero and slashing CO2 emissions from homes and buildings is vital to achieving this commitment.

GTC COO John Marsh explains: “We provide utility infrastructure for new housing sites, so we are delighted to offer this alternative to gas. Our business owns and operates heat networks across London. We have built on this experience to extend heat networks to low-density sites for GTC installation. This provides a simple, competitive option for housebuilders and homeowners.