What is a heat network?
Heat networks operate by generating heat in one or several central locations and distributing it through a network of underground insulated pipes.
These pipes carry hot water to connected buildings, where it is used for heating and hot water via a heat exchanger, a device that functions similarly to a boiler but without the need for gas.
This system is not only more efficient but also significantly reduces carbon emissions. In fact, the first phase of the Worthing Heat Network alone is expected to save around 3,000 tonnes of carbon annually, the equivalent of removing 2,000 cars from the road.
The project so far…
While the construction may cause some temporary disruption, it’s a small step toward a much bigger gain. The Worthing Heat Network is a long-term investment in the town’s future, delivering cleaner air, lower heating costs alongside generating more local jobs for local residents.
Together, we’re laying the groundwork for a more sustainable, resilient, and future-proof Worthing for generations to come.
Long term benefits for Worthing
The Worthing Heat Network will have a positive impact on businesses and residents across the town. This is not theory, the first phase is almost complete with many buildings ready to connect to the network.
So when you visit the Connaught Theatre or Worthing Hospital on a cold winter’s night, we’ll be there keeping you warm.
And over the next 10-20 years we’ll be connecting more and more buildings, including homes.
The Energy Hub takes heat from the air
Located in front of the High Street Multi-Storey Car Park is the “Energy Hub” which will initially use an air source heat pump (ASHP).
It works by extracting heat from the outside air (even in cold weather) and uses it to heat water, which is then circulated through a network of insulated pipes to provide heating and hot water to multiple buildings within Worthing.
Essentially, it’s a centralised heating system that utilises a renewable energy source (the air) and offers a more sustainable, and more efficient, way to heat homes and businesses compared to lots of individual heating systems using gas.
In construction
Construction of a heat network involves laying pipes under the roads. Once they’re in, they generally don’t need to be dug up for decades. To lay pipes under the road, we often need to dig trenches, resulting in lane or road closures. See our Latest Updates section for more information.
We began construction of the heat network in the summer of 2024.
We are on track to switch the heat network on in autumn, and complete the first phase of the works.
Hemiko is progressing works across the town centre, currently working on: Lyndhurst Road / Chapel Road / Union Place
When can I connect?
When you can connect to the heat network will depend on how far away you are from the network, and how many other buildings in your area also want to connect at a similar time.
Non-domestic connection?
Non-domestic buildings in the town centre can connect now. Email
worthing@hemiko.com to request an Indicative Connection Offer.
Domestic connection?
Our goal is to make sure that the infrastructure is there ready for homes when they need it. It is unlikely that domestic buildings will want to join the heat network yet. We are hoping to trial connection of streets in Worthing. We would need 70% of the homes on a street to connect to make this workable. If you are interested in a domestic connection, please register your interest by emailing worthing@hemiko.com.
Bringing the community more than just low carbon heating
Cleaner air for Worthing
We will replace gas boilers, reducing exposure to harmful nitric oxide, nitrogen dioxide, and sulphur oxide. Did you know 98% of Copenhagen's heat demand is supplied by a heat network?
Energy Security
Heat networks use local sources of heat, and do not need to be reliant on imported fossil gas. Being connected to a heat network is cheaper than having your own air source heat pump.
Net Zero Heating
3,000 tonnes of carbon will be removed per year from phase one. The same as removing 2,000 cars from the road. More will be saved over time.
Local Jobs for Local Residents
We will deliver social value through employment, skills, education, and growth.
Reliable and Efficient
Heat networks are tried and tested, and able to serve entire towns and cities.
The Cheapest Way to Decarbonise
Heat networks are up to 40% cheaper than installing individual building heat pumps.
Reducing Waste
Heat networks capture and reuse local wasted and ambient heat for the benefit of local people.
Supporting Community Decarbonisation
Heat networks only work when buildings like yours connect. You make the decarbonisation of the rest of the town possible.
Community Fund
Hemiko's Community Fund will grow every year as the network expands. So far, it has invested £60K into community initiatives with more planned.
£500m low carbon investment, without costing local taxpayers.
While the project was procured by the council as part of its Climate Action Plan, no local taxpayer money is being used to build the network. Instead, Hemiko is delivering the scheme under an evergreen concession agreement, meaning the company funds, builds, and operates the network independently.
The council retains oversight to ensure fair pricing and service standards, but the cost to residents and businesses is comparable to traditional utilities like gas and electricity. This model allows Worthing to benefit from cleaner, more secure, and future-proofed energy infrastructure, without placing a financial burden on local taxpayers.
Latest news
Through our Community Fund, Worthing Heat Network aims to support local projects, empower organisations, and create a positive, lasting impact in Worthing. This past month, our fund has helped support a variety of initiatives: from raising awareness of mental health with West Sussex Mind to providing volunteers for Guildcare’s Summer Showtime.
Worthing Heat Network is excited to announce that the first phase of the project is nearing completion, meaning we’ll soon begin supplying low carbon heat to the first customers. We have submitted a planning application to complete the main spine of the project, allowing the heat network to reach two new connections: Splashpoint Leisure Centre and the Pavilion Theatre.
