Innovative Technology Set to Revolutionise Heating and Support Net Zero Goals
Millions of UK homes could potentially switch to low-carbon electrified heating while alleviating pressure on the national grid, thanks to revolutionary heat battery technology. This is the key finding from the Neat Heat trial, a landmark study led by UK Power Networks in collaboration with OVO and tepeo.
Details of the Neat Heat Trial
The Neat Heat trial spanned 18 months and involved the installation of tepeo’s Zero Emission Boiler (ZEB), which utilises cutting-edge heat battery technology, in households across the Southeast and East of England. The trial demonstrated that heat batteries, as an all-electric low-carbon alternative to traditional fossil fuel boilers, can offer significant grid flexibility. By shifting peak energy demand for heating to off-peak periods by up to 95%, this technology ensures homes remain efficiently heated even during the coldest winter months, leading to substantial carbon savings of approximately 15,600 kgCO2e compared to gas boilers.
How Heat Batteries Enhance Grid Flexibility
The ZEB’s thermal storage capability allows homes to ‘charge’ their heating systems outside peak hours, which are typically the most expensive times for energy. The heat is then released on demand, enabling a more efficient heating process. The project’s launch saw over 2,000 people express interest, underscoring the high demand for sustainable heating alternatives among UK residents.
Innovative Pricing Model and Trial Results
A standout feature of the trial was the ‘type of use’ add-on, an innovative pricing model developed by OVO. This model provided customers with access to reduced rates for charging their ZEBs during off-peak times. Customers could set their ZEBs to charge when energy prices were lower, making the technology both user-friendly and flexible for grid management. The trial showed that 95% of participants’ annual heating needs could be shifted outside peak hours, including over 90% during the coldest winter weeks. Participants experienced no significant change in their heating comfort; the ZEB delivered similar performance to conventional boilers, but exclusively using electricity.
Benefits of Heat Batteries for UK Homes
Heat batteries, such as the ZEB, are poised to play a crucial role in decarbonising home heating. They are particularly suitable for the estimated 20% of UK homes that lack the space required for heat pumps or where retrofitting such solutions could be challenging. The trial also highlighted the ease of installation, with systems being set up in one to two days, and all trial participants chose to continue using their ZEBs rather than reverting to fossil fuel boilers.
Expert Opinions on the Trial’s Impact
Luca Grella, Head of Innovation at UK Power Networks, remarked: “Moving electricity demand away from peak hours is a significant advantage for both our network and our customers.” He added, “Reducing the need for network upgrades will ultimately benefit customers nationwide.”
Johan du Plessis, CEO of tepeo, stated: “The success of Neat Heat opens the door for broader adoption of heat batteries, which is essential for the UK’s transition to Net Zero.”
Grainne Regan, Head of Heat at OVO, concluded: “Decoupling electricity consumption from heating is crucial for decarbonising home heating. This trial represents a major advance in our mission to achieve a Net Zero energy grid by 2035.” She further noted, “We are dedicated to making energy solutions that benefit our customers, their finances, and the environment, and this trial is a prime example of our commitment.”