London's Iconic Buildings to Harness Low-Carbon Heat from Underground Sources

A new £1bn heat network will use waste heat from the Thames and London Underground to decarbonize Westminster landmarks.

The UK government has announced plans to develop a major heat network in Westminster, aiming to supply decarbonized heat to approximately 1,000 buildings.
This initiative is part of a £5m investment in seven heat network zones, with the South Westminster Area Network partnership leading the project.
The heat network will capture excess heat from the River Thames, London Underground, and potentially thermal batteries transported via barges.
Construction is set to begin in 2026, with the project expected to save 75,000 tonnes of CO2 annually, equivalent to planting 1.2 million trees.
The scheme is designed to improve air quality by reducing reliance on gas boilers and is projected to create 500 jobs.