Event Overview:

This half-day event will explore delivery models for heat networks across Scotland — from large urban district heating schemes to community- and shared heat systems. Featuring real-world case studies, policy insights, and panel discussions, the session aims to share lessons, challenges, and innovation pathways with key stakeholders.

Target Audience:

• Clean heat technology providers

• Local authorities and public sector estate managers

• Urban planners and developers

• Non-domestic and commercial property portfolio owners

• Registered social landlords and housing associations

Key Themes Covered

• Delivery models: public-led, private, and community ownership

• Regional equity: representation from H&I and SoSE regions

• Financing mechanisms and partnership structures

• Scalability from building-level to urban-scale systems

Agenda

09:00 – 09:30 | Arrival and Networking Breakfast 

Informal networking with coffee and light breakfast. 

09:30 – 09:40 | Welcome and Opening Remarks 

• Dr Roddy Yarr, Director of Sustainability, University of Glasgow 

09:40 – 10:00 | Keynote: The Policy Landscape for Heat Networks in Scotland 

A strategic overview of policy instruments, zoning, funding, and regulatory frameworks supporting the growth of heat networks. 
Speaker: 

• James Hemphill, Head of Heat Networks and Public Sector Buildings Policy & Legislation, Scottish Government 

10:00 – 10:30 | Session 1 – Delivering a Large-Scale Urban Heat Network 

An inside look at the delivery model, technical design, funding approach, and stakeholder coordination for a major district heat network. 

 
Case Study 1: 

• Paul Steen, Head of Business Development (Scotland & North England), Vattenfall Heat UK  

Case Study 2: 

• Andrew Cripps, Partnerships Director, Vital Energi 

10:30 – 11:00 | Session 2 – Community Scale Heat Networks  

Showcasing a shared heating solution in social housing or a community development, including funding routes and resident engagement. 
Case Study: 

• Dr Oisín de Priall, Senior Consultant, Reheat  

Speaker: 

• Paul Gilbert, Net Zero Energy Transition Programme Lead, South of Scotland Enterprise 

11:00 – 11:15 | Coffee Break & Networking 

11:15 – 12:00 | Session 3 (Panel Discussion) Delivery Models – Public, Private, Partnership 

Exploring the pros and cons of different delivery models (e.g., local authority-led, private ESCo, JV, community-owned), and what’s working across Scotland. 

Moderator: 

• Sheelagh MacGregor, Associate Director for Net Zero, Scottish Futures Trust 

Panellists: 

• Mark Potter, Regional Manager (Scotland & North England), Kensa 

• Danny Cowe, Business Development Manager, Scottish Water Horizons 

• Robin Abrham, Associate Director, Last Mile Asset Management 

• Craig Richardson, Principal Procurement Specialist, Scotland Excel 

12:00 – 12:30 | Session 4 - Financing Heat Networks: Insights from Current Projects 

Understanding how delivery models are supported through capital funding, revenue stacking, and risk-sharing arrangements. 
Speaker: 

• Sarah- Jane McArthur, Partner, Brodies   

12:30 – 12:45 | Closing Remarks and Takeaways 

Summarising actionable insights and next steps for attendees. 

• Dr Roddy Yarr, Director of Sustainability, University of Glasgow 

12:45 – 13:30 | Networking Lunch