BY Jack Dunkerley | Monday 19 October 2026
Representatives from the Department for Energy Security and Net Zero (DESNZ) visited Hull to see first-hand the progress being made on the city’s low-carbon heating project, the Hull Heat Network.
The visit on Wednesday 14 October provided an opportunity to demonstrate how UK government, one of the key funders of the project, is supporting the delivery of cleaner energy in Hull.
DESNZ is the government department to improve the UK’s energy security and support the transition to low-carbon energy through investment in projects such as the Hull Heat Network.
Delegates toured the Energy Centre site to see the progress made so far. Vital Energi, the Hull Heat Network project’s main delivery partner, were also present to present the key milestones achieved to date.
Andrew Wightman, Regional Director for Vital Energi, said: “It was a pleasure to welcome the Department for Energy Security and Net Zero to the Hull Heat Network and share first-hand the progress being made with works on site as well as our ongoing social value initiatives.
“We were proud to showcase the collaborative approach that has helped bring this project forward, working closely with partners, stakeholders and government to create infrastructure that will provide long-term benefits for Hull.”
The Energy Centre, designed by global architect consultants ARUP, is currently under construction on the former Trippet Street Car Park.
Once complete, the building will provide heating and hot water to city centre buildings through a network of insulated underground pipes.
By reducing reliance on gas, the scheme will help cut carbon emissions, improve air quality and support Hull’s transition to a more sustainable future.
Councillor Charles Quinn, portfolio holder for Hull City Council, said: “Welcoming representatives from the Department for Energy Security and Net Zero to Hull was a valuable opportunity to showcase the progress being made on the Hull Heat Network.
“By providing a reliable low-carbon source of heating and hot water, the network will play an important role in responding to the climate emergency and creating long-term benefits for businesses and organisations across Hull.
“As the network continues to progress, we encourage organisations interested in reducing their carbon emissions and future-proofing their energy supply to explore the opportunities to connect.”
To find out more about connecting to the Hull Heat Network, visit: https://hullheatnetwork.co.uk/.
