Heat Network Development Partner for Plymouth

Plymouth City Council is seeking a Development Partner to design, commercialize, and deliver sustainable heat networks across the South Coast and Derriford areas. The role involves two stages: (1) Development Stage - designing the heat network and conducting commercialisation work leading to an approval gateway, and (2) Delivery Stage - implementing the approved network through a special purpose vehicle where Plymouth City Council will hold a controlling interest. The initial South Coast phase leverages waste heat from South West Water's Central Plant and has secured interest from major public and private sector anchors including the University of Plymouth, Arts University Plymouth, Devon & Cornwall Police, the National Marine Aquarium, Theatre Royal, and Plymouth Community Homes. These areas have been identified as suitable for low-carbon heat networks under the Department of Energy Security and Net Zero's heat network zoning pilot. Plymouth City Council has obtained Green Heat Network Fund grant support for development and construction costs, with the Development Partner responsible for providing remaining funding. The contract operates under an evergreen Shareholders' Agreement for the operational delivery phase, supporting Net Zero ambitions across the region.