Stoke-On-Trent teams up for sustainable heating boost

SSE Energy Solutions has been appointed as Stoke-on-Trent City Council’s strategic partner for heat networks, paving the way for sustainable heating solutions in the city.

The partnership is part of a broader Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) aimed at advancing Stoke-on-Trent’s energy strategy.

It will be focused on decarbonisation, economic growth, job creation and skills development within the green energy sector.

The agreement sees SSE Energy Solutions and the council working together to map out the city’s path to net zero, which may include various initiatives beyond heat networks.

Government projections suggest heat networks could meet 20% of the UK’s heating demand by 2050, playing a vital role in the national effort to decarbonise heating, which currently accounts for 37% of CO2 emissions.

Nathan Sanders, managing director of SSE Energy Solutions said: “Our partnership with Stoke-on-Trent City Council represents a shared vision for a cleaner, greener future. Combining SSE’s expertise in sustainable energy solutions with the Council’s deep understanding of local needs, we’re creating a strong foundation for the city’s energy transition.

“This collaboration extends beyond reducing carbon emissions – supporting Stoke-on-Trent’s shift to a low-carbon economy. We’re eager to work with the Council to explore innovative energy solutions to contribute to the city’s sustainability goals and benefit its businesses and communities.”

Cllr Finlay Gordon-McCusker, cabinet member for transport, infrastructure and regeneration said: “It’s great to have entered into this partnership with SSE, and comforting to know our vision for a cleaner, greener future is shared. In addition to this agreement to work together, SSE will also commit to helping develop local skills to support the delivery of milestone projects and using local suppliers and workforce.

“As a city, we continuously seek innovative solutions to support residents, businesses and communities with realistic and achievable energy solutions. This new agreement will also cement our commitment within the green energy sector, and in turn, show how attractive the city is for future development opportunities.”