and
are now
As the Future Homes Standard (FHS)1 reshapes residential development, developers need heating infrastructure that supports compliance, reduces carbon emissions and delivers long-term operational value for residents.
Ground source heat networks (GSHNs) are emerging as an effective solution for new build housing projects of all sizes. With flexible solutions to suit each development, housebuilders can deliver low-carbon heating systems that align with the Future Homes Standard and wider decarbonisation targets.
Why ground source heat networks are a solution of choice
GSHNs support the transition to lower carbon emissions in new homes by providing highly efficient, geothermal heating, cooling and hot water systems.
They are highly scalable and can be designed to suit a wide range of residential schemes – from small housing sites to large mixed-use and multi-phase developments. Each network is configured to suit development scale and layout through either a centralised system fed by an energy centre, or decentralised networks with individual heat pumps.
80% emission reduction compared to gas
54% emission reduction compared to air source heat pumps
Lowest grid impact, unlocking grid constrained sites
How ground source heat networks can help developers
GSHNs provide developers with a highly efficient, reliable and resilient low-carbon heating option.
- Hit SAP and Part L compliance targets
- Reduce upfront capital burden with a funded model
- Attract buyers with an efficient solution that’s built to last
- Provide consistently high efficiency as the climate changes
- Future-proof developments against evolving regulation
- Deliver a low-carbon heating solution well-suited to large developments, apartments and mixed-use schemes
Shared infrastructure serving multiple properties helps to optimise land use and reduce reliance on individual technologies. The proven durability and stable performance provides long asset lifespan and higher, more stable efficiency. Networked solutions are also capable of providing active cooling, which is becoming increasingly desirable as our climate warms.
Consistently high standards for developers and residents
The industry has taken several steps over the last 12 months towards regulation of heat networks. With Ofgem providing consumer protection and the upcoming introduction of the Heat Network Technical Standards, progress is being made to ensure high delivery standards to developers – much like other utilities.
For residents, ground source heat pumps offer quieter operation and improved aesthetics with no external plant, as well as stable bills and transparent tariffs.
The importance of early infrastructure planning
As the need for low-carbon heating is a key feature of the Future Homes Standard, early coordination is becoming increasingly important within the development process. This helps to mitigate risk and streamline delivery.
Planning future homes ready heating infrastructure alongside wider utility requirements helps reduce complexity and costs during construction and supports more efficient long-term network management.
Deliver low-carbon heating with confidence
Last Mile is a trusted partner to support developers with scalable ground source heat network infrastructure designed to help meet Future Homes Standard requirements and support the delivery of future-ready residential developments.
