University supports plans for heat network in the City

The University of Worcester is working with partners in the City to explore the feasibility of an underground heat network powered by the River Severn.

The University led an initial feasibility study for the City in to creating a network, which could provide heating for several buildings in the city centre, including some of the University’s facilities. The scheme centres on the use of renewable thermal energy from the River Severn via water source heat pumps.

Project partners include Worcester City Council, which has committed a £230,000 Government grant for the project development study, along with the Worcestershire Local Enterprise Partnership and Worcestershire County Council.

Professor David Green, the University of Worcester's Vice Chancellor and Chief Executive, said: "Global heating is a reality. Left unchecked the results will be disastrous. We must all work together to minimise emissions of carbon dioxide, methane and other greenhouse gases whilst improving air quality. This is so important for human health today as well as for the future.

"At the University of Worcester we are very committed to working in productive partnership with the people of the city, county and region together with their democratic representatives, business and community organisations to find practical solutions. We hope that, together, we will be able to harness this energy for the public good."