News / Brae district heating scheme moves step closer with new study
AN “INNOVATIVE” district heating scheme for Brae has moved a step closer to becoming a reality.
Shetland Islands Council has appointed global engineering consulting group COWI to conduct a feasibility study and concept design into the potential for district heating to reach the North Mainland.
The study will assess the feasibility of using renewable energy – such as a dedicated wind turbine – to power a district heating network.
COWI said this was an approach that, if viable, “could unlock new opportunities for sustainable community heat in the UK”.
The study is part of a UK Government-funded project which will also see the Brae Youth Centre revamped as a “rural energy hub”.
The feasibility study and concept design are scheduled for completion by June 2025, with construction expected to commence shortly afterwards if it is a success.
COWI brings district heating expertise from a number of major European projects in cities such as Copenhagen and Dublin.
In Shetland, the company has served as a trusted adviser to the Shetland Heat Energy and Power Company for 25 years, supporting the development of the Lerwick district heating project.
COWI UK managing director Andy Sloan said the Brae scheme was “an exciting opportunity”.
“By leveraging our international experience, we’re developing a model to showcase the broader benefits of harnessing renewable resources while supporting Shetland Islands Council in developing a secure, affordable, and sustainable heating solution for local homes and businesses,” he added.
Development committee chairman Dennis Leask said he was pleased to see the project take another step forward.
“The concept of district heating is known to people throughout Shetland, given the success of the Lerwick District Heating Scheme.
“I look forward to seeing how COWI can explore the use of renewable energy and how that can benefit the community.”
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